Knightswood Care
Seated Exercises for enhanced wellbeing
Knightswood Day Care Centre is a safe haven for people who need some respite, care and friendship in their lives. With funding and support from Active Essex, they were able to fund a professional trainer to lead engaging seated exercise sessions.
Initiated by Knightswood Care, the project aims to improve physical movement and positive mental health, in a welcoming and friendly environment. Personal Trainer Sabrina visits the two sites weekly, and her sessions which are filled with uplifting and happy music, bring energy and joy to the room, encouraging clients and staff to participate in the seated exercises. Clients who typically avoided activities found themselves moving their arms and legs, or tapping their toes to the music, all with smiles on their faces. The sessions not only improved physical movement, but also sparked discussions about sports and interests from client’s younger days.
The project has been a huge success, with clients eagerly awaiting Sabrina’s next visit. The positive impact on client’s general wellbeing has been evident and support and resources that are available online, have been invaluable. Funding from Active Essex has allowed Knightswood Care to work even more closely with clients, and staff on this project to truly make a lasting impact on the overall wellbeing of participants.
The difference that exercising to music has made to clients' wellbeing is significant, and this has been promoted to families and potential clients. The exercise groups have also strengthened client/carer relationships, with the team joining in and encouraging clients to participate together. Staff and clients have learnt the importance of movement for both body and mind, and the group environment has created a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
The sessions initially held in the day centre have now progressed to the Community Hub, where the Memory Club is held for clients living with dementia. This has greatly improved mental wellbeing and physical stimulation, whilst providing vital respite for carers.
