Swimming trips with Resthaven Companion Service

A swim at the local for Greg

Mr Greg Patterson of Resthaven Craigmore is enjoying twice weekly trips to the local ‘Aquadome’, with support from the Resthaven Companion Service.

‘I meet the carer at 9am on Mondays and Fridays, and we get a taxi together to the Aquadome,’ says Mr Patterson.

‘I go in and do about 20-25 laps. I’ll swim for just under an hour, then have a quick spa or sauna.’

‘The support is good – the carers keep a good eye on me.’

‘I’ve been going twice a week for the last six months, and I can just tell that I’m keeping myself fit – I feel well in myself.’

Resthaven Executive Manager Residential Services, Tina Cooper, says, ‘The Resthaven Lifestyle Choices plus Companion Service supports people like Mr Patterson with a Resthaven Personal Care Assistant to accompany them on outings, such as a doctor’s appointment, social outing, or just a trip to the shops.’

‘The service is available for purchase to all Resthaven residents.’

Find out more about Resthaven’s Lifestyle Choices Plus Companion Service

Mr Patterson, for one, is delighted with the Resthaven Companion Service, as it allows him to continue his love of sporting activities, despite living with Parkinson’s.

‘I’ve been here at Resthaven Craigmore for almost two years,’ he says, ‘and I really look forward to the Lifestyle activities – Bingo, bocce, any sports activities are good for older people.’

‘We also have a social worker, and she seems to be very good, I’ve heard good reports about her.’

‘The conditions and overall facilities at Resthaven Craigmore are neat and tidy, everything is supplied.’

‘The whole outfit is well managed. It’s neat, it’s tidy, it’s well run.’

‘I’m even using the computers in the internet café! I’ve been contacting my friends on email.’