Dorset charity prepares for the ‘Big Give’ in December

Dorset charity Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is urging residents to support its vital work by taking part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge which runs from 3–10 December. During this period, one donation will have twice the impact as all donations are doubled through matched funding.

Lewis-Manning provides free support to people like 90-year-old Anne in Swanage, who was experiencing declining health, including difficulty walking, advanced macular degeneration, and cataracts, which impacted her independence and wellbeing.

A hairdresser who worked with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care suggested that Anne shouldn’t be alone so often and put her name forward for assistance and support from the hospice’s ‘Hospice at Home’ team.

One of the charity’s occupational therapists, Sue, assessed Anne and discovered that walking caused her significant pain. Sue learned that Anne enjoyed aqua aerobics because water alleviated her pain and developed a plan around this.

Sue said: “One key intervention was installing a bath lift, which allowed Anne to bathe comfortably again, something she hadn’t done in a long time.

“With the bath lift and tailored exercises, Anne regained strength, stamina, and mobility She can now get out of chairs more easily and engage in activities that help her maintain her independence.”

Anne and her husband, who have been married for 56 years, said they feel that their lives have improved significantly due to the care and support from Lewis- Manning Hospice Care. Anne has expressed gratitude for the changes, noting how these interventions enhanced her quality and pattern of life.