RESIDENTS at a Sanctuary Care home in East Kilbride enjoyed an exciting outing – ice skating in their wheelchairs.
Jo Sloan, 91, and Irene Cassells, 80, who live at not-for-profit Forefaulds Care Home, enjoyed the experience with the home’s activities coordinator Kirsty Bagan and care assistant Argie Fermil.
Kirsty was inspired following visits to the local shopping centre, where she often saw wheelchair users on the ice rink.
She said: “When I showed Jo the videos of them skating the next morning, she laughed and said she’d love to do it again. That means the world to me.
“Irene was all smiles on the day, waving to her husband, daughter and grandson who came to watch. Their families were deeply grateful, saying the outing looked brilliant.”
“I was nervous,” Kirsty added. “It’s been more than 25 years since I last skated, but seeing their smiles made it all worthwhile.”
The residents were joined by another group in wheelchairs, who offered encouragement and joined Jo and Irene around the rink.
“They were so friendly and gave us tips – it really added to the experience,” Kirsty said.
Jo and Irene are active members of the Forefaulds community, enjoying arts and crafts, cooking sessions and live entertainment.
“Whether it’s a craft session at home or something extraordinary like our recent ice-skating trip,” Kirsty added.
“Taking part in meaningful activities gives our residents joy, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. These experiences prove that age is no barrier to adventure – and the smiles say it all.”