FROM HOSTING clubs to even running a community shop, residents at Old Mill House in Springhead are certainly living life to the full.
The busy pensioners make sure there is never a dull moment as they put on weekly social activities ranging from handicraft, films, bingo, games and cards to IT and painting classes.
“You name it, we do it,” explained 78-year-old Edith Bentley, one of the 38 current residents. “There is always plenty going on to get involved with.”
One of the most popular activities are the film showings, set up by Frank Eastwood, 89, around 12 months ago to bring everyone together for some light entertainment.
There are also themed events for residents to get dressed up for on special occasions including Valentines, Halloween and Christmas, as well as regular day trips out.
When they are not taking part in the numerous activities, many residents can be found helping out in the Old Mill House community shop.
Dianne Hayes, Extra Care Court Manager, explained: “Cllr Adrian Alexander donated some of his ward funds a couple of years ago to help to set the shop up and the residents love it.
“They do everything themselves, from the stock counts and accounts to taking turns with the rota.”
The shop is stocked high with household essentials including bread, soup, sweets, toilet rolls and more, which are all scouted out by Maureen and Jim at low prices.
Harold McCleverty, 87, joked: “Just don’t go in on a Thursday afternoon when Harry and Frank are there as they don’t let you out without buying something!”
Also open to the public are IT classes on Tuesday mornings run by Steve Hewitt, a Saddleworth Parish councillor, with the help of volunteer Robin Birch.
The classes started about 18 months ago and offer learners of all abilities courses including using a laptop, money management or finding a job, as well as using Facebook and checking emails.
Voluntary Action Oldham were so impressed with the idea that they gave the club £1,000 to help purchase new equipment.
Steve explained: “We started off with no computers but a lot of learners so had to buy some ipads and laptops, and then managed to buy some more with the grant money.”
If residents feel like slowing down a little, the comfortable lounge, conservatory and library offer the ideal place to relax or meet for weekend ‘get togethers’ with coffee and biscuits.
Cyril Gosling, 93, explained: “I am quite happy sitting here and chatting to everybody or reading.
“I walk over to Lido House when the weather is nice as I’ve got friends over there. We like to go out to the shop and sometimes the cinema.”
And residents cannot praise restaurant owner Gary Knott enough for his traditional mouth-watering menu including pies, hot pot, rag puddings and desserts.
Their happy spirits have spread to the kind-hearted carers from care providers Comfort Call who are on site from 7am until 11pm to offer help when needed.
Carer Rebecca Giblin, 24, revealed: “I’ve been here five months now and I love my job. It’s like a big family here and always feels like being on holiday!”
Helen Moran, senior carer aged 42, added: “We’ve got some people who have not been out for up to three years, and it’s nice to get them socialising more. That’s definitely the best part of the job.”
Dianne concluded: “We think Old Mill House is a special place. The residents still live independently but they have the support there if they need it.”
Old Mill House is managed by Housing and Care 21 and offers extra care housing and care services for residents from 60 years of age (or younger depending on assessed care needs and circumstances).
For more information call Extra Care Court Manager Dianne Hayes on: 0370 192 4384. Also go online: www.extracarehousing.co.uk
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