Knowing the benefits tennis had on her grandparents’ mental and physical health prompted Boulter to recently attend a walking tennis session – made possible by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) – at Sutton Tennis & Squash Club in South London.
She chatted to and hit some balls with Age UK service users and saw how valuable the social element of walking tennis is firsthand.
“It’s a good opportunity just to come and play tennis, do something fun and put a smile on someone’s face,” said Boulter. “It’s a nice bonding tool to be able to play with someone or play doubles as it brings you closer to people.
“And you know, it might give you a bit more confidence to leave the house, go and see your friends more and have a healthier lifestyle.”
She first started working with Age UK during the pandemic.
“The first time I started with Age UK, was around COVID time and I felt like it was a really good time to do it, because one, I had a bit of time, which normally I don’t have, and secondly, it was a really isolating time for everyone, you know, especially the elderly,” recollected Boulter.“They needed a little bit help, so I just wanted to give back and try and be a little bit of a comfort for them.
“It combines two of my biggest passions, tennis and giving back to the elderly.”
Jemma Thornton, head of wellbeing services at Age UK Sutton, added:“Part of our project is to reduce isolation and loneliness, and people have lost confidence from not going about and doing typical day-to-day things.
“So, to be able to come back out and do something that is accessible, that is low-key but also offers that element of social interaction all in one place is really beneficial.
“There is a very welcoming atmosphere in our groups that really helps people feel comfortable and just focus on the sport and feel those natural benefits of doing some sort of physical activity.”
To find out if there’s an Age UK Walking Tennis session near you, or for more information, visit Age UK Walking Tennis programme or call 0800 169 65 65.
82 | mccarthyholden.co.uk
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