Violet, 88, is thriving not just surviving
An 88-year-old Bexhill resident who three years ago was given only months to live is now attending weekly yoga sessions at her care home, actively participating in class and spending more time with others, despite advanced vascular dementia.
Violet Jeffery, who lives at Hazelmere Nursing Home, now joins chair-based yoga in the home’s lounge each week. But when Violet first arrived at Hazelmere in March 2023, her world looked very different.
At first Violet kept to herself, rarely spoke to others and ate very little. Staff say she kept a cherished photograph of her late husband close at all times and preferred to stay in her room. At the time, her prognosis was bleak. Today, staff say the change in Violet has been remarkable, thanks to yoga sessions led by instructor Lou Murphy, who began working with Hazelmere residents last August.
“Violet joins in with all the movements,” says Lou. “She lifts her feet, works her ankles, moves her arms and even does facial exercises. She’s talking more, responding to gentle encouragement and engaging with the class.
“Yoga really helps the residents connect with their bodies and stay present, which can lift their mood and build confidence – Violet is a wonderful example of that.”
Since attending regularly, Violet now spends time in the lounge each day and eats a variety of meals, enjoying a roast dinner and cakes, marking a significant change from her early months at the home.
With new-found confidence, she has also formed a quiet bond with manager Simona Mehes’ two-year-old granddaughter, Ella, who visits frequently. “Not long ago, Violet preferred to stay in her room,” says Simona. “Now she comes into the lounge daily and seeks out company.
“One afternoon I noticed her watching my granddaughter Ella while she was colouring. I invited her to join in and she sat beside her, completely focused – calm and present in the moment.
“For someone living with advanced dementia, that level of attention and social engagement is remarkable. We’re all very proud of Violet and the progress she’s made through yoga.”
Chair-based yoga is increasingly used in care settings as a non-pharmacological approach to supporting wellbeing. Gentle movement, repetition and rhythm can support neurological engagement and reduce anxiety, even in advanced stages of dementia.
Nearly three years after being told she may have limited time remaining, with the support of Hazelmere staff, Violet continues to take part in daily life at the home.
When asked how yoga makes her feel, Violet smiled and said: “I like you.”
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