Woodbridge: Dementia friendly golf club launch is a success

Seckford Golf Club and Home Instead Ipswich, Woodbridge and Felixstowe care service have joined forces to create this monthly golf club, which will provide a fun and stimulating social activity to people living with the condition and their families. 

The club was launched by Mayor of Woodbridge Patrick Gillard on November 2, who took to the course in full regalia to show off his swing. 

Ten older adults with dementia came along for the first session, which was a roaring success. 

The dementia friendly golf club was launched on November 2. Credit: Home Instead (Image: Home Instead)

They were accompanied around the course by volunteers and experienced instructors from Seckford Golf Club, as well as Home Instead care professionals, who specialise in looking after people with dementia. 

Jo McCall is manager of Home Instead Ipswich.

She said: “I am delighted to be working with Seckford Golf Club to offer dementia friendly golf to our community. 

“It will be wonderful for clients who may have played golf in the past to revisit and reminisce on their past hobby.  

“Equally it’s a great opportunity to learn a new skill for those who haven’t played before; it’s never too late to learn!” 

Wendy Chard, head of ccommunity engagement at Home Instead, pictured with Tony Pennock from Seckford Golf Club. Credit: Home Instead (Image: Home Instead)

Tony Pennock from Seckford Golf Club helps a person with dementia complete the golf course. Credit: Home Instead (Image: Home Instead)

Meanwhile, the Dell View care home in Oulton Broad helped its residents to pursue hobbies as part of World Kindness Day (Sunday, November 13). 

Two residents were supported on a recent fishing trip, where they managed to catch a carp weighing a whopping 5lbs.  

Another has taken to uncovering historical remains with the help of his metal detector, which he then sells to museums. 

His findings include rare bottles and dinosaur bones.  

Joy Henshaw is regional director for Wellbeing Care, which runs Dell View.  

She said: “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.” 

One resident was proud to have caught a 5lb carp. Credit: Wellbeing Care (Image: Wellbeing Care)

Some residents of Dell View have been enjoying fishing. Credit: Wellbeing Care (Image: Wellbeing Care)

The dementia friendly golf group meets on the first Wednesday of every month from 2pm to 4pm, with the next golf day on December 7th.

To book a place, call Wendy Chard on: 01473 272301