Dee Parks Wheelchair for Good
Hastings care home resident and former waterbaby, Dee Howard, thought her swimming days were over following a stroke that left her needing a wheelchair. But thanks to the dedication of staff at Hastings Court care home on The Ridge, Dee is not only floating free again, but her mobility has improved so much, she no longer needs her chair.
She recalls, “I always loved swimming and, up until a few years ago, my husband and I would go to aqua aerobics together. Sadly, I lost Mike in 2021 and then having the stroke I thought my swimming days were over – but thanks to the team at Hastings Court I was wrong.”
Dee is one of a number of residents who take part in weekly sessions at Crowhurst Holiday Village, which has kindly opened its pool and specialist equipment to allow residents, including those with reduced mobility, to enjoy the freedom of floating in a pool once again.
It was the idea of Dan Peacock, Lifestyle Coordinator at the 80-bed home. Dan says: “I was at the pool myself one day and noticed a hoist, and it dawned on me what a great opportunity this would be for the residents at Hastings Court. There are so many health benefits that come with swimming, and it would be an ideal activity for us as a home.
“I approached the manager at Crowhurst Park who agreed we could bring groups from Hastings Court to use the equipment and go swimming – for many it was the first time in over a decade they had been in a pool.
“It has been a huge hit with many telling me it is a highlight of their week. Being so free in the water helps those with mobility issues and I have noticed residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s seem more lucid and calm after a session in the pool.”
Dee is now able to walk with two sticks thanks to the regular sessions. But she says she had to be persuaded to take the plunge: “I wasn’t the first to sign up for swimming as I was worried I would sink, but with the encouragement of the team and my fellow residents, I gave it a try and it was the best thing I ever did.
“At the pool there is a special chair to help me into the water and as soon as I get in I feel totally relaxed. With the help of a couple of buoyancy aids, called noodles, I’m free to move around wherever I want to go. I’d forgotten the feeling of weightlessness you get in water – but I soon remembered how to move around, and I was off!”
Dee admits, “Sometimes we stop off in the pub on the way home – I think we’ve earned it!”
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