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11
Jun
19
Home to bring outdoor fun to people in wheelchairs
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Home to bring outdoor fun to people in wheelchairs

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A local home for seniors is making the outdoors slightly more accessible to people in wheelchairs.

Carveth Care Centre, a retirement lodge and long-term care home in Gananoque, is raising money for a special swing that allows people in wheelchairs to enjoy light exercise surrounded by sunshine and flowers.

“We’re hoping to raise enough money to buy this special piece of equipment for our residents,” says Shannon Buell, Activity Director. “People with disabilities are often restricted in where they can go and what they can do because of limited access to places and equipment. This new swing chair is a safe and therapeutic experience that can help reduce anxiety, boredom and loneliness. The swing is a wonderful way for people in wheelchairs to enjoy an outdoor activity again.”

Earmarked for the home’s beautiful outdoor courtyard, the swing chair will be purchased when the home meets its fundraising goal of $8,500. Residents, staff, volunteers and families have already raised $4,500. They hope the community will support this great cause through donations to the home’s charitable foundation.

“This swing chair is an excellent example of the extra mile we will go to in our home,” says Brett Gibson, Administrator. “This type of equipment will directly improve our residents’ quality of life. We know the swing chair will create fond memories through its soothing rocking motion and inclusivity. It is a pleasure to work on our residents’ behalf to acquire this special equipment.”


 

According to experts, the swing chair will help improve balance, improve focus and help maintain fine motor-skills such as grip strength, hand, arm and finger coordination.

“Studies have shown, the ability to swing regularly helps us sleep better because the back and forth motion helps balance neurological activity in the brain,” confirms Paula Lewis, the home’s former Coordinator of Policies and Programs. “You know those wound-up thoughts you have when you’re lying in bed with insomnia, staring at the clock? When our cerebral connections become irregular due to varied disease processes, neurological focus affects our sleeping patterns. The back-and-forth motion of a swing glider helps relax our brains into a restful peace. The motion is soothing.

“Swinging on a swing glider set is similar to meditation or yoga,” continues the friendly manager. “It helps calm. It helps soothe. And it helps our brain and muscles relax and settle.”

To donate to a new wheelchair accessible swing chair at Carveth Care Centre, please contact 613-382-4752 ext. 107 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

WhisperGlide Swing Chair POSTER

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