Residents at a Somerset care home will soon be able to cycle around the world from the comfort of their lounge.
Portcullis House in Langport, a dementia, respite, and residential care home, received a donation of cycling pedals from the Drayton Village Fair committee to support a virtual cycling activity that allows residents to 'travel' to global destinations while exercising.
The inspiration for the donation came after a former committee member, Brenda, became a resident at the home earlier this year.
Jacqui Price, secretary of the Drayton Village Fair committee, said: "The committee of Drayton Village Fair like to choose a worthy cause to benefit from funds raised at the bi-annual event, and this year we were keen to use the funds to support dementia care in the local area.
"We felt that using some of the funds to support dementia-led activities at Portcullis House would be a lovely way to honour our friend, Brenda, and are pleased that our donation of cycling pedals will enable more residents to join in with this beneficial activity which boosts physical and mental health."
Visitors to Portcullis House noticed how much Brenda and other residents enjoyed the virtual cycling sessions, which use pedals and online videos to simulate journeys through scenic locations.
The activity not only encourages gentle exercise but also sparks conversations and memories about travel and the places shown on screen.
Previously, the home had only three sets of pedals, limiting the experience to three residents at a time.
The Drayton Village Fair committee donated seven additional pedal sets, allowing more residents to participate together.
Nicola Daykin, registered manager of Portcullis House, said: "As a specialist dementia care home, we know just how important it is for our residents to participate in stimulating, meaningful activities which prompt discussion and engagement.
"We have found our virtual cycling tours to be hugely popular and beneficial for our residents, so having the ability for more residents to join in is just wonderful.
"On behalf of Brenda and her fellow Portcullis House residents, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Drayton Village Fair committee for their generous donation, which has made this a reality."
The new cycling pedals will be officially presented to Portcullis House, part of the Somerset Care Group, on Wednesday, June 18 during Care Home Open Week.
Care Home Open Week is a national event that aims to connect care homes with their communities and showcase the work they do to support residents.
