With the Olympics underway, a local care home kicked off their own summer of sport with a special Games tournament.
Residents and team members at Care UK’s Invicta Court, on Gidd’s Pond Way, welcomed the local community for a special day of family fun competing in traditional sports day challenges, proving Paris has nothing on Maidstone this summer.
The events came as Invicta Court joined The Big Care UK Sports Day, which sees over 130 Care UK homes across the UK host sports days for the local community and showcase what life in a care home is really like this summer.
Guests soaked up the sporting atmosphere and had the chance to win their own gold medals with an afternoon of fun and games, including egg-and-spoon races, tug of war, and knockout tennis tournaments. Residents were also enlisted to make their very own Olympic-style torch for the occasion to help champion on their fellow teammates.
Declaring the games officially open was the Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor John Perry, who enjoyed French-themed refreshments with the guests and residents, including vol au vents, chicken liver pate canapes and Quiche Lorraine.
Commenting on the afternoon, resident Bud, said: “’I’ve always dreamed of winning a gold medal, but I never thought it would happen. Today, it came true at Invicta Court.”
Sara Barbosa, Home Manager at Invicta Court, said: “Summer sports days are always a highlight for us, as not only is it a fun opportunity to compete in light-hearted games with team members, but provides an opportunity for us to welcome the local community and see what life is like here at Invicta Court.
“Keeping fit is important for everyone, but exercise has many additional benefits for older people, from reducing the risk of falls to increasing wellbeing and confidence. Here at Invicta Court, we know just how important physical activity is, so we always encourage residents to stay active – and our own sporting tournament was a great way to do just that.
“This year’s event provided plenty of laughter and enjoyment for all involved and it was great to see residents meet and mingle with lots of new faces – and some familiar ones – while keeping active. Paris has got nothing on us!”
To find out more about The Big Care UK Sports Day, please visit: careuk.com/care-uk-sports-day
Invicta Court has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, as well as respite, and end of life care.
My mum is a resident here. Wonderful staff and community spirit.