Roy’s Story: Keeping Hobbies Alive at Haddington Care Home
At Haddington Care Home, we believe that moving into care should never mean leaving behind the hobbies, interests and passions that make each person who they are. For Roy, football has always been at the heart of his life and supporting him to continue enjoying the sport he loves has been a real pleasure for our team.
Roy is 97 years old and grew up in Silverdale, England. He originally came to Haddington Care Home for respite care, but shortly before his stay, he broke his hip and spent six weeks in hospital recovering.
As a social butterfly, Roy found hospital life difficult. He was bored and missed the companionship, conversation and stimulation that Haddington Care Home provides. Once he recovered, Roy couldn't wait to move in as a full-time residential resident. Six months later, he continues to thrive as an active and valued member of our community.
A Lifelong Love of Football
Football has been an important part of Roy's life and identity for decades.
"In my younger years I played football for Stoke City after I finished national service. Football has been an important part of my life and identity.” Roy often reminisces about the thrill of the game and some of his proudest sporting moments, including "scoring 10 goals in 2 of my games".
One of the things Roy loves most about living at Haddington Care Home is our close connection to the local football community. Haddington Athletic Football Club sits right next to our home, with a prime view of the pitch even visible from some of our windows. The home also owns a season ticket, enabling Roy to regularly attend matches and stay connected to the sport he loves.
"Since moving into the care home here at Haddington, I am still able to have my football fixes as the care home sits opposite the local football team, Haddington Athletic. I have attended a few of the games and it always brings back happy memories for me."
Recently, Roy enjoyed cheering on the team during an exciting 4-1 victory. While the Haddington side may not have matched Roy's goal-scoring exploits from his younger days, the experience brought back many treasured memories.
His enthusiasm is infectious, and staff enjoy attending matches alongside him and sharing in his passion.
Laura, Activities Team Lead, says: "Seeing Roy enjoy his sports again is great, it brings a smile to him and a sense of joy."
Home Manager Kieran adds: "He may have hung up his boots, but Roy's love for football is as strong as ever. There is such joy on his face when he chats about the beautiful game. Once a player, always a fan."
Staying Connected to the Community
At Haddington Care Home, helping residents maintain meaningful community connections is incredibly important to us.
Roy thrives in social groups and enjoys a strong sense of belonging among fellow sports fans. He regularly attends a local Men's Club called Sporting Memories, held at the library, where he has made many like-minded friends.
"It's a very good morning. We discuss football and other sports from years gone bye and normally have a quiz at the end. When there are questions about English football teams I often do well. They are a nice group of men and all very social. Some of the other residents in the care home come with me which I enjoy as it keeps me part of the community."
Creating opportunities like these helps residents like Roy maintain a sense of purpose, reduce feelings of isolation and continue enjoying the activities and friendships that matter to them.
An Engaging, Varied Lifestyle
While football remains a huge part of Roy's life, it is far from his only interest.
"I have a visual impairment but this does not stop me from taking part in activities such as seated exercises and music afternoons."
Roy embraces a varied lifestyle and enjoys taking part in many of the activities on offer throughout the home. His favourite activity is dominoes, which he is keen to play with anyone who is up for the challenge, although Roy remains unbeaten so far.
"I was a champion in my younger days and still like a good game and some competition from the other residents and especially the staff, who are yet to beat me in a game - although they do try!"
Mary, Team Leader, says: "Roy is a joyful and cheery man, always talking about his football and proud to be an English Man."
Val from Reception agrees: "Always has a welcome smile every morning I come in with the papers."
A New Lease of Life
Roy has found a new lease of life at Haddington Care Home and continues to light up the room with his enthusiasm, humour and love of sport.
His story perfectly reflects what we strive to achieve every day. Our team is dedicated to helping residents continue the hobbies they love, maintain a strong sense of identity and enjoy meaningful experiences that bring them happiness. By tailoring activities, outings and support to each individual, we help residents continue living full, engaging lives.
For residents like Roy, that means ensuring football remains part of everyday life. Whether that is cheering from the sidelines, sharing stories of past glory or challenging staff to a game of dominoes, we are proud to support him in doing the things that matter most.
If you’d like to see our exceptional care in action, please get in touch today to arrange a tour of our home. It’s the perfect opportunity to get a real sense of what a vibrant lifestyle at Haddington Care Home is like, and have your questions answered by our experts.
