Care home residents from across Swindon have been celebrating after taking part in the second annual Senior Games – a 12-week programme designed to boost health and wellbeing.
The Senior Games, which ran from early September to late December last year, saw 102 residents from eight care homes competing in activities including javelin, tin can alley, target throw, golf putting and even dancing.
The event, managed by Swindon Borough Council’s Public Health Team and supported by Great Western Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Wiltshire and Swindon Sport (WASP), aimed to improve physical fitness, mobility, and overall health among care home residents, including those living with dementia.
The games were more than just a bit of fun – they produced real results. The risk of falling among participants fell from 62.5% at the start of the programme to just 40% by the end. Two residents even managed to give up their walking aids entirely, and one participant was able to wash herself for the first time in years.
The programme culminated in the Swindon Senior Games Festival 2025 at Nova Hreod Academy, where students presented awards to the proud participants. Princess Lodge Care Home claimed the top spot, with Councillor Ray Ballman, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, handing over the winning trophy.
Kath, an 89-year-old resident at Princess Lodge Care Home, said: “I used to be really active when I was younger, but it’s been hard to stay that way since moving into a care home. I feel people judge me because of my age, but now I’ve had the chance to play sports again – and I’ve loved every minute.”
Ashley, 90, from Orchard Care Home, added: “I’ve got so much more confidence now. I can even walk around without my frame, which I couldn’t do before.”
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, praised the impact of the programme: “We’re proud to support the Senior Games, which are helping older residents improve their health and independence. It’s important that people continue to feel part of the community and enjoy life, whatever their age.”
Dominique Oughton, Operations Manager at WASP, highlighted the value of the event:
“The Senior Games are all about keeping older adults engaged, active, and connected. The residents have shown incredible spirit, and it’s brilliant to see them thrive through sport.”
Becci Arthur, Integrated Pathway Lead for Falls and Bone Health at Great Western Hospital, added: “The improvements in strength, balance and independence have been fantastic – but just as important is the social side. Residents have made new friends and reduced loneliness, which is incredibly valuable.”
