Catch of the day: Lowestoft care home residents tackle old hobbies as part of ‘compassion campaign’ to encourage an active lifestyle

From catching sizable carps to unearthing dinosaur bones, tenants from a Lowestoft support facility are being encouraged to remain independent and active by adopting a hobby as part of a ‘compassion campaign’ to coincide with World Kindness Day.

Wellbeing Care’s Dell View, which specialises in assisted living services, has been helping its tenants to find and pursue activities they enjoy to promote independence and support mental wellbeing as part of its new compassion initiative that launched on World Kindness Day (Sunday 13th November). 

Two residents who particularly like the sport of fishing were recently supported on a fishing trip, and even managed to catch a sizable 5lb carp. Whilst another tenant was given the opportunity to go horse riding, and now attends sessions regularly after falling in love with the activity.

One gentleman has been uncovering historical remains through his metal detecting hobby, which he then sells on to museums. His findings include rare bottles, artefacts of historical importance and dinosaur bones. He also completed the Hadrian’s Wall challenge this summer, finishing three hours before anyone else.

Research shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer from stress, low mood, and depression, as spending time on an activity you enjoy can improve mental health and wellbeing.

Joy Henshaw, Regional Director for Wellbeing Care, said “Across all of our homes, we encourage our tenants and residents to maintain their hobbies and interests,  as we see huge impacts on their confidence and happiness by doing so. Especially at Dell View where some tenants are reluctant to leave their residence, it’s great to see them out and active whilst gaining some social interaction, as we’re all about helping our residents to lead as normal life as possible.

“We work hard to support all of our residents' hobbies and interests, whatever they may be. From motorbike riding, art, fitness or fishing, we hope to ignite a passion within them all that gives them a sense of purpose and makes their days more interesting.”

Wellbeing Care’s Dell View provides person-centred assisted living services that are all about treating each and every tenant as an individual. The apartments promote independent living but offer peace of mind that help is close by. With a team of highly qualified, trained and dedicated staff they aim to offer professional and dignified care to residents tailored to their individual needs.

For more information on Wellbeing Care, please visit www.wellbeingcare.com.