02 July 2023 , 15:00
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A woman living with dementia has been left with an “incredible smile” after rekindling her love of swimming.
Leisure centre staff were touched after seeing Isobel Porter’s reaction after she was able to take the plunge again.
Her trips were arranged by staff at her Surbiton care home and local leisure centre, who joined forces to help her.
The 81-year-old was joined in the water by husband Jeremy who says his wife “has always been happy in the pool”.
Since her first visit to the pool Isobel has returned several times, swimming short distances and even doing aqua aerobic exercises.
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Speaking ahead of National Swimming Pool Day which is on 11 July 11th, husband Jeremy praised the impact the sessions were having on Isobel.
“My wife has always been happy in the pool, and recently she had gone to deep-water aqua classes," he said.
Isobel Porter is supported by staff at Royal Star Garter (SUPPLIED)“She loves the sessions and keeps asking when she can go back.
“You can see it is very positive for her demeanour and it lifts her, she’s happier afterwards.
“I could see how much she was enjoying herself. She does exercises in the pool, and she’s getting stronger and more confident in the water with every session.”
Jeremy, who served as a Reservist in the Royal Marines in the 1960s, also thanked those who made it happen: “I’m so grateful to the staff at Royal Star & Garter and the Malden Centre, who worked together to do this for Isobel. I hope it will benefit other residents in the Home as well.”
Wellbeing Coordinator Lesley O’Driscoll, said: “Once we knew about Isobel’s love of the water, I spoke to our Physiotherapist Annette and we thought it would be great if we could get her back in a pool.”
They searched for a suitable venue nearby, complete with a poolside hoist, and found the Malden Centre.
She has rediscovered her 'incredible smile' (SUPPLIED)“Isobel loves the sessions. Each week she does more and more in the pool.
When she comes back to Royal Star & Garter she tells everyone it was amazing and asks if she can go again.”
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Marie O’Loughlin is the Malden Centre Manager. She said: “The smile on Isobel’s face when she comes in and swims is incredible, it’s genuinely heart-warming to see.
“I’m so happy we are able to accommodate her and welcome her to the Malden Centre.”
According to Age UK, regular physical activity - such as swimming and aqua aerobics - can build stamina, core strength and boost wellbeing.
Royal Star & Garter in Surbiton are now hoping to extend the sessions for the benefit of other residents.