A lifelong love of the water has made waves once again after a care home resident’s dream of swimming was turned into reality, inspiring the launch of a new club for fellow residents.
Veronica Down, who lives at Claremont Manor Care Home in Dawlish, spent much of her younger years swimming in coastal waters. However, after becoming a wheelchair user, she believed returning to the water might no longer be possible.
After learning of Veronica’s wish, staff at the home arranged a visit to the accessible facilities at the Seale-Hayne Hydrohub. Supported by staff, the 85-year-old was able to enter the pool, walk through the water and experience moving freely again.
The experience prompted Claremont Manor to create the “Claremont Silver Splashers” swimming club, giving other residents the opportunity to take part in supported swimming and hydrotherapy sessions.
Carla Bowman, home manager at Claremont Manor, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have launched the Claremont Silver Splashers, and it all started with fulfilling Veronica’s wish.
“Seeing her face when she got back into the water was a truly magical moment for our team.”
Carla added: “At Claremont Manor, we believe that moving into a care home does not mean giving up on your passions.
“As well as being great fun, the hydrotherapy sessions are also incredibly beneficial, with benefits including improved mobility and easing joint pain.
“We have a growing list of excited people who cannot wait to take a dip. We are so looking forward to making more dreams possible, one splash at a time.”
The care home said the sessions provide residents with safe, supported and weightless exercise while also helping to improve mobility and wellbeing.
Claremont Manor is part of Maria Mallaband Care Group and provides residential, nursing and dementia care. The home can accommodate up to 71 residents.
