Dorchester care home resident credits ‘hard work’ with secret to reaching 100th birthday
A care home resident in Dorchester has credited ‘working hard’ as the secret to reaching her 100th birthday.
Doris, who lives at Maiden Castle House on Gloucester Road, was joined by her family and other residents for a special party to mark her landmark birthday. She wore a sparkly sash and tiara for the celebrations which included being presented with cards from loved ones and the care home team, as well as her special card from King Charles.
Asked what the secret is to be reaching 100 years of age, she said: “I don’t feel any different from any other age. I’ve worked hard all my life and I’ve always kept busy. I’ve never been on a plane. My granddaughter did her best to get me on a plane but never succeeded.”
At the care home, Doris enjoys knitting, sewing, completing puzzles and watching the TV to keep herself busy.
Doris grew up on a farm in Corfe Castle with her seven siblings and remained living in the area for 60 years. She met her late husband, Harry, in 1953 and together they welcomed two children, with the family expanding to welcome five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren over the years.
Earlier this year, Doris shared her wartime memories to mark the 80 anniversary of VE Day. She remembered helping an army officer and his wife who were stationed at Furzebrook to look after their baby.
She said: “I remember the noise of the planes was so frightening as they flew much lower than they do now. It almost felt like they were on top of your head.”
Ashley Smith, Home Manager at Maiden Castle House, said: “We are so pleased that we could help Doris to celebrate her 100th birthday, which is an incredible milestone. She is an inspirational lady who has lived such an interesting life and is loved by the other residents and care home team. Doris always has a positive outlook on life and has a strong work ethic, which is truly inspiring. At Care South, it’s a privilege to care for our residents and enable them to create new happy memories with their loved ones.”
