Up to 49 miles of Lithium Iron Phosphate powered travel. It’s easy to see why the Ranger Li is a Which? Best Buy.
Welcome to our spring issue of CareCo Life!
This edition is nicely packaged and full of good things, a bit like a luxurious Easter egg –only without the chocolate. Sorry. Hopefully the stories and ideas featured throughout will more than make it up to you!
From riding the rails to river cruises, slower travel isn’t just more environmentally friendly –it’s much easier to do with mobility aids in tow. So in the spirit of holidays on the horizon, we’ve explored how the best trips are the ones taken at your own pace.
On the opposite end of that spectrum, I’m delighted to say that the Per Ardua 21 team reached Antigua after a gruelling 44 days at sea. It’s a properly awe inspiring achievement – especially for the two crew members returning to the Atlantic 21 years after their first crossing! We caught up with Group Captain Andy Calame to hear the highs and lows of their epic adventure.
You’ll find plenty more to enjoy elsewhere in this issue, from ideas for getting outdoors this spring to tips for making everyday life that little bit easier.
Just the thing for spring
A gentle reset for your home and your health
Traditionally, spring is the season of sorting, clearing and resetting. And a spring refresh for your mobility can be just as meaningful –it’s just about taking the right approach.
We’re not talking about heavy lifting, climbing in and out of the loft, or pulling out the sofa to get to a year’s worth of dust. Small changes can make a big difference!
1. Clear the clutter and reorganise the things you use the most so they’re within easy reach. You’ll be surprised at just how uplifting it can feel to have a proper tidy up (honest!).
2. The days are longer, brighter, and hopefully warmer. Gentle daily exercise or short walks outdoors with proper support can boost circulation and flexibility, which can in turn keep you more comfortable when you’re sitting down relaxing. Consistency beats intensity here!
3. At home, adding a touch of colour, perhaps with fresh flowers or a bright new cushion on your favourite chair – can give a big boost to your mental wellbeing.
The peace of mind annual service
4. If your mobility equipment has spent the winter in hibernation, spring is a good time for a quick maintenance check. Make sure everything is clean, properly adjusted, and, most importantly, still suited to what you need.
Traditionally, spring is the season of sorting, clearing and resetting. And a spring refresh for your mobility can be just as meaningful –it’s just about taking the right approach. Did you know that CareCo offer an Annual Peace of Mind service for mobility scooters?
We’ll give it the once over and make sure everything is in proper working order, ready to help you soak up all the springtime sunshine we’re absolutely, definitely in store for.
To book your mobility scooter service, call sales on 0333 015 5000.
Scooter storage
Keep your mobility scooter looking its best
Wherever you store your scooter, a cover will make sure it's protected from the elements and ready to go when you are!
StretchTec Mobility Cover
The StretchTec Mobility Cover is made using 4-way stretch material to fit around different shapes and sizes of mobility aid. The fabric is breathable, reducing the build-up of condensation and stopping rust from forming. The soft interior lining is the ideal protection for the paintwork on your mobility aid as well as any fabric or leather seats.
CareCo Mobility Store
Storing your mobility scooter can be difficult. The CareCo Mobility Store is a rigid waterresistant shelter that keeps your scooter dry, clean and out of sight from prying eyes.
This mobility scooter storage solution uses a ventilation system to prevent the build-up of condensation and moisture which can lead to rust and mould. Each side of the storage tent features a vent to increase airflow, with a rolled flap to cover the vent if necessary.
Is this the best vacuum cleaner ever?
Anti-Hair Wrap technology Keeps the brush bar clear, and with our unique Auto-cleaning filter system you need never clean a filter again.
Made to last The AirRAM 3 Plus is built to last 20 years with a durable floor head reinforced with aluminium to withstand pet wear and tear.
Grooms to perfection Effortlessly transitions from carpets to hard floors for a flawless clean.
Luxurious comfort Leather-bound handles for comfort where you need it most.
Long run time Clean your whole home on full power, on a single charge.
No tubes to block Gtech’s revolutionary patented AirLOC and dirt collection technology picks up dirt no other vacuum can.
Dynamic steering Effortless movement with forward inertia-drive and a low-profile handle for easy under-furniture cleaning.
Edge cleaning brushes Equipped with unique edge brushes, it cleans right up to the edges, leaving no dirt behind.
Why have a stairlift when you can have a real lift?
Stay in the home you love with the UK’s best-selling homelift.
Reconnect your home
Regain access to all areas of your home with a stylish, cost-effective homelift. Save the cost and upheaval of moving and maintain your independent lifestyle with a Stiltz Homelift. It allows you to travel easily and safely between oors without any of the hassles of a stairlift.
Peace of mind
Buy with con dence directly from Stiltz, the UK’s largest homelift provider and you can sit back and let us reconnect all the areas of your home.
Fit in any home
Quick and easy installation
Low energy use
Quiet as a whisper
Safety as standard
We handle everything
Have a chat with our friendly UK-based team about your Homelift Free, no obligation home survey
James Wilson
The Sleep Geek: CareCo’s new sleep ambassado r
For anyone who’s ever wished for deeper, better, more restorative sleep, help is at hand.
We’ve teamed up with James Wilson, widely known as The Sleep Geek, to bring practical, no-nonsense sleep advice to customers across the UK.
James is one of the country’s leading sleep experts, with an impressive track record. He appeared as one of the specialists on the Channel 4 series The Secrets of Sleep and has been featured on programmes such as The One Show, This Morning, BBC Breakfast, Steph’s Packed Lunch, Channel 4 News, Sky Sports and Football Focus.
As the resident sleep expert on Life Hacks, James also writes for leading publications including Time, Forbes, Newsweek, Financial Times, Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan and Glamour, among many others.
Why CareCo chose The Sleep Geek
CareCo has always focused on creating products that make everyday life easier, safer and more comfortable, and sleep plays a crucial part inthat mission. By welcoming James on board as an ambassador, CareCo is strengthening its commitment to helping customers sleep well, feel better, and live more independently.
People aren’t all the same, and neither are their sleep needs. That’s why I focus on giving practical support based on the individual.
James Wilson, The Sleep Geek
A selection of CareCo products will now carry the Sleep Geek Certified mark, a trusted sign that the item has been reviewed with expert insight into sleep quality, comfort, and ergonomics.
CareCo founder and mobility expert
Will Harrison explains: “Having James join CareCo is a significant step for us. His expert understanding of sleep, combined with our mobility and comfort expertise, means our customers receive the most comprehensive support possible. Our management teams have completed Sleep Geek training, making them more knowledgeable than ever about sleep and how our products can support it.”
A different kind of sleep expert
James is known for cutting through jargon and breaking down the real science of sleep. His approach is shaped by his own background; growing up in a family-run bed and mattress business, then training as a sleep practitioner after seeing “experts”
offer advice that was unhelpful, patronising, or simply unrealistic. Instead, James believes sleep advice should be built around real people with their own bodies, lifestyles, routines and challenges.
“People aren’t all the same, and neither are their sleep needs. That’s why I focus on giving practical support based on the individual, not one-size-fits-all rules.”
Working with CareCo
James has already spent time training CareCo’s teams across the country. His down-to-earth style has resonated strongly with our team, helping them become more confident when discussing sleep with customers.
“Working with the CareCo team has been brilliant. What really stands out is how passionate they are about the products and the customers they support.“
“During the training sessions in Leeds, I loved seeing sleep science click with real-world experience. The team told me they now feel much more confident talking about adjustable beds and how they can genuinely improve someone’s sleep. Even better, several said the sessions improved their own sleep too which I’ll always take as a win!
“My role is simple: help the team feel informed and confident when talking about sleep, guide customers towards the right products for their needs, and ultimately help more people get the quality rest they deserve.”
Debunking common sleep myths
James has built a reputation for tackling unhelpful sleep myths head-on, especially the ones that create more worry than solutions.
“The problem with a lot of sleep advice is that it’s too black-and-white. Take caffeine; people are told never to drink it before bed. But the truth is that we all metabolise caffeine differently. For some people, an afternoon coffee has zero impact.
“Blanket rules just make people feel like they’re doing things ‘wrong’.
“Phones get the same treatment. Telling people to ‘just stop using your phone at night’ is unrealistic; it’s the real world, after all. What matters isn’t the phone, it’s what you’re doing. If you’re doom-scrolling or stimulating your brain, you’ll struggle to wind down. But if you’re relaxing, reading or switching off, that’s totally different.”
It’s this kind of honest, realistic approach that has made James a trusted voice in sleep for individuals, families and businesses.
A partnership focused on better sleep CareCo is delighted to have James Wilson as an ambassador, bringing expert insight to customers who want to sleep more comfortably and confidently, especially those who rely on supportive, adjustable or mobility-focused sleep products.
With Sleep Geek Certified products on the way and ongoing staff training, this partnership is set to help thousands of people achieve better sleep, night after night.
Follow James on social media
Instagram: instagram.com/thesleepgeek
X (Twitter): x.com/thesleepgeek
Do you know someone with a drinking problem?
Can they reach the drink?
Can they lift the drink?
Can they hold the drink?
If the answer to any ONE of these questions is no, they will need someone to help them access their drink.
This help is not always available when needed.
THE SOLUTION
The Hydrant - A multiple awardwinning drinking system that solves the problem of reaching, lifting or holding drinks — giving back dignity and independence.
Hang it from a bed, chair or wheelchair for immediate access at all times
Long flexible tube
Bite valve that prevents drips
No lifting required, no spillage
To find out more about The Hydrant hydration system simply scan the QR code below or visit www.completecareshop.co.uk and search “Hydrant”
Carbon power
Which iCONNECT carbon powerchair is right for you?
Our product experts highlight three of the most innovative powerchairs on the market, each crafted from ultralight, ultra strong carbon fibre.
The iCONNECT Zora and ZR1 ranges are designed to bring high-end materials into everyday life. While the specs tell one story, the best way to find your fit is to feel the responsiveness of the carbon fibre frame for yourself.
We’ve got showrooms across the UK, open 7 days a week – and brimming with tea and biscuits.
Find your nearest showroom at: www.careco.co.uk and take one for a test drive today.
Scan here
To see our comparison video
The iCONNECT Zora Carbon
The iCONNECT Zora Explorer
The iCONNECT ZR1 Carbon
iCONNECT Zora Carbon: The world’s lightest powerchair
Best for
• Users who need the absolute minimum lifting weight (only 13kg)
• Frequent flyers looking for an airline-friendly, compact design
• Those who prefer a minimalist, sleek ”road bike” aesthetic
• Range: 9 miles (can be doubled with a spare battery)
• Max user weight: 18st 12lbs (120kg)
• Carry weight: 13kg – lighter than many manual wheelchairs
• Airline friendly: Yes (240Wh battery)
The Zora Carbon is a gamechanger for portability. It features a half-folding backrest for easy stowage in planes or cars and magnesium alloy wheels for added durability. If your priority is independence while travelling and a chair that is effortless to lift, the original Zora is the gold standard.
iCONNECT ZR1 Carbon: Sophisticated style & control
Best for
• Users who value ease of access with flip-back armrests
• Those who want high-tech feedback via a crisp LCD display
• Drivers looking for a modern, curved design in unique colours
• Range: Up to 10 miles
• Max user weight: 23st 8lbs (150kg)
• Carry weight: Approx. 14kg (2st 2lbs)
• Airline friendly: Yes (288Wh battery)
The ZR1 balances effortless convenience with premium technology.
Featuring elegantly curved, foldable armrests that make sidetransfers ‘graceful’ and easy. The ergonomic joystick includes a built-in faultfinder’and a small headlight for evening use. Available in Graphite, Lilac, and Teal.
Best for
• Longer days out requiring an extended battery range
• Users navigating uneven pavements or cobbles
• Those who want the lightest possible frame with maximum comfort
• Range: Up to 18 miles (with two batteries included)
The Explorer takes everything great about the Zora range and shifts it into a higher gear. It comes standard with two lithium batteries, for a total range of 18 miles. To handle those longer journeys, it adds front suspension and larger rear wheels to soak up bumps. If you don't want your battery life or the terrain to dictate when your day ends, the Explorer is the perfect match.
York
A city that rewards the explorer
Our York showroom at Marrtree Business Park opened over the winter – and we’re loving being able to help locals and visitors alike navigate this historic city with confidence.
Our showroom is open to anyone – whether you want to demo our products or you fancy a natter with the team.
Steven Bisby, Showroom manager
From the majesty of the Minster to the timber-framed charm of The Shambles, York is a place where history lives on every corner. This is a city that rewards the explorer, so why not make a day of it!
“Our showroom is open to anyone –whether you want to demo our products or you fancy a natter with the team,” says our showroom manager Steven Bisby.
“You’re always welcome for a decent brew and a biscuit!”
Located just off the A1237 on Stirling Road, our York showroom is perfectly placed for a spring day out.
Northern highlights:
Make the most of your showroom visit
The National Railway Museum:
Just a short distance from our showroom, this iconic museum is largely level-access and perfect for testing out a lightweight scooter while admiring the giants of the steam age.
The York Museum Gardens:
April is the perfect time to enjoy these stunning botanical gardens. With wide, tarmac paths, it’s a beautiful spot for a gentle stroll with a rollator among the Roman ruins.
The Shambles Market:
While the historic cobbles can be tricky, the nearby market area offers a flatter surface to enjoy the hustle and bustle, local crafts, and delicious street food.
The Shambles Market
THE NEW LANDSDOWNE ADJUSTABLE BED
In Notting Hill Plain Cocoa
The joy of gentle travel
Rediscover the world at your own pace
Travel is often defined by speed, especially for younger travellers eager to see and do it all at once.
As priorities shift with age, we look to slow down and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
River cruises
Picture this: you've just docked in the heart of a historic city, and there's no need for a complex transfer. For a stress-free escape, river cruises are hard to beat.
Most ships feature spacious lifts and wide corridors designed for rollators and lightweight mobility aids. Having your own equipment on board lets you explore villages at your own pace, ensuring you always have a sturdy seat and support whenever you need a rest.
The freedom of the rails
Train travel is another calmer alternative to the bustle of airport terminals. Whether you are taking the Eurostar or exploring Italy via local routes, rail travel provides the space and dignity often missing from air travel.
Many major European providers also offer dedicated assistance, where staff meet you at the platform to assist with boarding and luggage. It's a return to a more civilised, more luxurious era of travel.
Your gear, your rules
The biggest advantage of choosing river or rail over the runway is the freedom to bring the equipment you trust.
Power without paperwork
Navigating airline regulations for lithium-ion batteries is a major hurdle.
On trains and cruises, those "gate-approval" battles disappear. As long as your aid is batteryoperated and in good repair, you can usually bring it aboard without complex paperwork.
Respect for independence
A primary anxiety of flying is handing a cherished powerchair to baggage handlers. With rail and river travel, your equipment stays with you. Most trains accommodate aids with a combined passenger weight of up to 300kg, keeping yoursource of independence safe and by your side.
Instant exploration
By skipping luggage carousels and cargo holds, you avoid the nervous wait to see if your mobility aid emerged unscathed.
The world is just as beautiful from a train window or a ship’s deck, and significantly easier to navigate when you have your own reliable wheels beneath you.
The biggest advantage of choosing river or rail over the runway is the freedom to bring the equipment you trust.
We keep moving, to keep you moving
Our Which? Best Buy carbon rollators. Now lighter and more portable than ever. See our proLite NG range instore
Summer Holiday
The Science of Nostalgia
It turns out our love for the coast isn't just sentiment; it’s science. Recent research suggests that ‘blue’ environments –the sea, lakes, and rivers – are ‘emotional anchors’, with 26% of nostalgic places identified by UK residents being coastal, far outperforming forests or mountains.
whether that’s with artisanal seafood shacks or restored Victorian landmarks like Folkestone’s The Grand.
Investment is also ensuring these memories are available to everyone. Significant upgrades to level-access walkways and refurbished coastal lifts mean that navigating hilly paths or sandy terrains is easier than ever. The British seaside is no longer a fading postcard; it is a vibrant, evolving sanctuary that continues to prove we really do like to be beside the seaside. We’re all
These spots hold a unique power to boost our well-being. Whether it’s the clatter of the 2p machines, crashing waves and even the screech of a seagull, the seaside is the hallmark feature of our collective memory.
From Mid-Atlantic storms to Antigua’s shores:
Leah catches up with Group Captain Andy Calame
Fifty days later
After rowing 3000 miles, battling 2.5-metre waves, and surviving on military rations, Group Captain Andy Calame shared what it really takes to cross the Atlantic.
Image credit: World's Toughest Row
"The World’s Toughest Row"
When we last checked in, Air Commodore Matt Stowers, Group Captain Andy Calame, Wing Commander Mike Dewar, and Squadron Leader Mark Jacklin, were just setting off. Fifty days later, they arrived in Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua, transformed by the experience.
“Some people talk about 'conquering' the ocean,” Andy told me. “but nobody conquers the Atlantic; she just lets you row her.”
The challenge wasn’t just the distance; it was the relentless rhythm of sleep vs. row shifts. Most teams opt for two hours, the Per Ardua 21 team chose three to secure longer blocks of sleep. However, ‘sleep’ might be a generous term when the cabin is a sweltering 32°C, and you're in a damp sleeping bag.
Moments of peril and "the dog watch"
Andy recounted a terrifying night on January 20 th when a 2.5-metre wall of water crashed over the boat, knocking him and Mike from their seats and submerging them for several seconds. “The safety lines saved us,” Andy recalled. “We were 90 degrees to the waves, the auto-tiller was disabled, and we were fighting just to stay upright.”
The team found strength in their ‘Charter’, a code of conduct that focused on mental health and teamwork. A key part was surviving the ‘Dog Watch’, a rowing shift from 23:59 to 03:00.
Mike Dewar helped Andy reframe his mindset: instead of seeing it as the end of a long day, they treated it as the start of a new one. Once the hardest shift was done, everything else felt like a breeze.
Image credit: World's Toughest Row
Spot the difference
After 50 days at sea, the crew show the physical toll of their adventure.
Comfort, rations, and a silk tie
As a CareCo sponsored team, the crew often thought of us, usually while sitting on their painfully hard rowing seats. “We really should have spoken to the CareCo innovation team about seat comfort before we left!” Andy laughed.
The physical toll was immense:
Blisters: A constant battle due to wet feet and saltwater exposure.
Nutrition: They survived on UK Military Arctic Rations, supplemented by "morale boosting" Percy Pigs and Liquorice Allsorts.
The Finish: True to his word, Andy crossed the finish line in a Gieves & Hawkes silk tie, proving that even after 3,000 miles of salt and sweat, an RAF officer maintains his standards.
Why they did it
Beyond the adventure, the mission was about resilience and supporting The Royal British Legion, Macmillan Cancer Support, and The Centurion Fund. They wanted to prove that age (average 56!) is no barrier to ambition.
“The Atlantic reshaped our sense of limits,” Andy reflected. “They aren't boundaries; they are invitations.”
What’s next?
The team is now recovering and adjusting to life on land,where the beds don’t move... and the fish don’t hit you in the face at 3:00 AM.
Group Captain Andy Calame
Squadron Leader Mark Jacklin
Wing Commander Mike Dewar
Air Commodore Matt Stowers Image credit: World's Toughest Row
Jules
Banoffee Overnight Oats
Start your day the right way
Overnight oats are the perfect slow breakfast, they do all the hard work while you’re sleeping!
It’s filling, feels like a treat and packed with slow-release energy to keep you fuelled all day.
For steady, slow-release energy to avoid mid-morning brain fog.
100ml Milk of your choice (Dairy, Almond, or Soya).
2 heaped tbsp Greek Yoghurt
High in protein and B12, which are essential for brain health and nerve function.
1 tbsp Walnuts (Crushed) Rich in Omega-3 (DHA) to support memory and cognitive performance.
1 tbsp Ground Flaxseeds or Chia Seeds
Essential fats for brain cell maintenance.
1 Ripe Banana
Provides Vitamin B6, which helps produce the ‘feel-good’ hormones serotonin and dopamine.
1 tsp Raw Honey:
A natural source of sweetness, and some sources suggest it protects the brain from stress!
A pinch of Cinnamon
To help maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the morning.
Method
1. The base: In a jar or bowl, mix the oats, milk, flaxseeds, and cinnamon.
2. The creamy layer: Stir in the Greek yoghurt and half of your honey. The yoghurt makes the oats incredibly thick and satisfying, while the honey adds a gentle, natural sweetness.
3. The flavour: Mash half of the banana and fold it into the mixture. This ensures every spoonful has that classic banoffee taste.
4. The overnight soak: Pop the lid on and leave it in the fridge overnight to work its magic.
5. The smart topping: Before serving, slice the rest of the banana on top. Sprinkle over the crushed walnuts and finish with a final tiny drizzle of the remaining honey.
Why it’s brain food:
Walnuts: These look like little brains for a reason! They are one of the best plant-based sources of brain-protecting fats. Raw Cacao: Raw cacao is a powerhouse of antioxidants that help protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
Steady Energy: Complex carbs help prevent the mid-morning “brain fog” that comes after a sugary breakfast.
Top Tip
Grab your jar and a spoon, and you’ve got a nutritious breakfast to enjoy on the move
One small step... into sci-fi
Project Hail Mary
If you’ve ever been curious about science fiction but felt intimidated by dense jargon or complex world-building,
Project
Hail Mary
by Andy Weir is an ideal gateway.
While the novel does weave in real science, it never loses sight of what truly drives the story: its protagonist.
At its core, this is a character-led adventure that balances big scientific ideas with humour, heart, and humanity, making it just as engaging for newcomers as it is for seasoned sci-fi fans.
The story follows Dr Ryland Grace, a school teacher and former biologist who wakes up alone on a spacecraft with no memory of how he got there... or why. As fragments of his past return, he realises he’s humanity’s last hope in a mission to stop a global catastrophe.
What unfolds is a tense yet often witty journey of discovery, survival, and unexpected friendship, set against the vast backdrop of space.
Now on screen
About the Author
Andy Weir is an American science-fiction writer best known for The Martian, which was adapted into a major Hollywood film starring Matt Damon.
With a background in computer science and a career in software engineering before turning to writing full-time, Weir has built a reputation for blending rigorous scientific realism with accessible storytelling.
The film adaptation of Project Hail Mary has brought renewed attention to Weir’s novel, introducing the story to a whole new audience. For readers who prefer to experience the original version first, or want to dive deeper after watching, the book remains the richest way to explore Grace’s journey, with extra detail, humour, and emotional depth that only the page can offer.
Comfort and convenience, wherever you go
The art of waking up refreshed
We invest in high-performance mattresses, blackout curtains, and soothing sleep teas, yet we often overlook the one thing cradling our head for eight hours a night.
A bad pillow doesn’t just cause a ‘crick’ in the neck, it signals to your body that it needs to stay on guard, preventing you from reaching those deep, restorative stages of REM sleep. Enter the simonsleep ® Original Pillow.
Designed by Science, Refined for Life
Most pillows treat the head like a static weight, but Simon Bacon, a UK Osteopath with 30 years of experience, knew better. He saw countless patients struggling with pillows that were either too rigid or lacked intuitive support.
Instead of forcing your neck to conform to a preformed shape, the simonsleep ® adapts to your unique build and shifting sleep styles throughout the night.
What makes it different?
The
Shoulder "Comfort Zone"
The simonsleep ® features a sculpted foam layer that allows your shoulder to tuck in comfortably. This prevents that “pushed up” feeling, letting your head and neck rest in a neutral alignment.
Custom-Tailored Firmness
Inside, the pillow is filled with gel-infused shredded memory foam. Because everyone’s “perfect” loft is different, you can add or remove filling to create a pillow made just for you.
A Cooler Way to Dream
The gel-infused foam and breathable cotton cover promote airflow, actively pulling heat away from your skin to keep your sleep environment temperate and tranquil.
Adjust. Settle. Sleep.
The beauty of the simonsleep ® Original is its versatility. By supporting your anatomy rather than resisting it, this pillow allows your muscles to fully relax, meaning you wake up feeling limber and rested rather than stiff and sluggish.
Find Your Natural Posture
Ready to upgrade your sleep hygiene?
Experience the simonsleep ® Original Pillow alongside our range of adjustable beds at your nearest CareCo showroom.
Rebuilding your confidence after a fall
A fall can happen at any moment, but its impact can linger far longer...
Beyond the physical pains, many people experience something less visible but just as powerful: a loss of confidence. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Most importantly, confidence can be rebuilt.
The first step is acknowledging what happened without letting it define you. Falls are more common than many realise, particularly as we grow older, but they do not mean that your independence is out of reach. Instead think of a fall as a signal to review your balance, strength and environment.
Rebuilding confidence happens through gradual, manageable steps. Gentle movement, perhaps guided by a healthcare professional, can help you feel steady again. Even short, regular walks indoors can make a significant difference. It’s also important to look at your surroundings. Simple changes at home can significantly reduce risk and ease apprehension. Removing loose rugs, improving lighting, or implementing living aids can create a more reassuring space. Sometimes, knowing the safeguards are in place is enough to quieten the fear.
The right mobility support can be life changing. Walking aids, rollators and mobility scooters aren’t symbols of limitation – they are tools for independence.
Finally, talk about how you’re feeling. Confidence isn’t built in isolation. Family members, friends and professionals can offer encouragement and practical advice. What feels overwhelming alone often feels manageable together.
It’s natural to feel cautious after a fall, but caution doesn’t have to become confinement. With a few proactive steps, it is entirely possible to regain your confidence, step by step.
The puzzle pages
All your favourite brain teasers
The big crossword
Across
2. The Sunday before Easter (4)
3. Traditional roast meat for Easter Sunday (4)
7. Lights switched on annually in Blackpool (13)
9. Game played in whites at Lord’s (7)
11. A collection of chocolate eggs might be found here (6)
14. Spring vegetable known for its “spears” (9)
18. Type of dance performed at Easter with bells and sticks (6)
21. North American neighbour and World Cup co-host (6)
22. April’s typical weather pattern (7)
23. Famous Lancashire resort (9)
24. Common white-and-grey bird known for stealing chips (8)
26. Colourful paper toy blown by the wind (4)
27. Classic pink, peppermint-flavoured stick of candy (4)
28. Coastal path or walkway (10)
30. Isle of ____, home to The Needles (5)
32. Yellow bloom often associated with Wordsworth (8)
34. Traditional footwear for a pebble beach (7)
Magic Square
In a Magic Square, the numbers in every row, every column, and both main diagonals must add up to the exact same total – known as the Magic Constant.
In this cosmic grid, the Magic Constant is 15. Use the numbers 1 through 9 exactly once to complete the square. We've started you off with a few “anchor stars” to guide your way.
Tips
Down
1. To build with buckets and spades (10)
4. Game played with small wooden balls on grass (5)
5. Toy with a string and spinning wooden ends (4)
6. A structure extending into the sea, often with an arcade (4)
8. Equinox month (5)
10. Popular seaside holiday accommodation on parks (7)
12. The ‘English Riviera’ is centred around this town (6)
13. Seaside puppet show character (5)
15. Vibrant shrub often seen in yellow during April (9)
16. Game played with numbered balls and cards (5)
17. Migratory bird whose arrival signals spring (7)
19. Popular brand of “creme” filled chocolate egg (7)
20. A “99” isn't complete without this (5)
21. Small, shelled seafood often sold in vinegar at stalls (7)
25. A baby goat (3)
29. Spread often eaten with toast (9)
31. Spring flower that grows from a bulb (5)
33. We’re saving our 2ps to go to the ______ (6)
35. Forty days of fasting (4)
• Each number (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) can only be used once.
• The sum of the three numbers in any direction (up, down, across, or diagonal) must be 15.
• Logic over luck: Look for rows or diagonals that already have two numbers filled in – that's your easiest entry point!
Retirement offers a beautiful gift: the ability to own your time. But without a little structure, it’s easy for the hours to slip away.
A morning routine can be tailored for those of us prioritising longevity and ease, not running a marathon before breakfast.
The 5-Second Liftoff
The hardest part of any day is often the physical transition from the warmth of our bed. To stop the brain from coming up with reasons to stay tucked in, try a simple countdown from 5.
On 1, sit up. This simple psychological trigger helps bypass mental analysis paralysis that can settle in when the day’s schedule is wide open.
Strategic Sunlight
Science tells us that getting natural light shortly after waking resets our circadian rhythm. Open those curtains wide or take your coffee out to the garden.
Even five minutes of fresh air can even out your mood for the afternoon ahead.
Hydrate and Circulate
The older we get, the more our bodies feel the effects of dehydration – it’s a big cause of morning brain fog and joint pain.
• The Habit: Keep a glass of water on your bedside table.
• The Twist: While you sip, perform five seated ankle circles or gentle shoulder rolls. You’re telling your nervous system that the engine is officially warming up.
The One Win
In retirement, the “to-do list” changes shape. Instead of a daunting list of chores, pick one small victory. Maybe it’s organising a bookshelf, heading to the park, or trying a new recipe. When you decide on your "win" early, you’ve already succeeded before noon.
Unfamiliar territory
Alistair found a little help at an uncertain time
When Alistair was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in February 2024, his life changed overnight.
Living in the Norfolk village of Gressenhall with his wife Sue of 21 years, he suddenly found himself navigating unfamiliar territory. And like many people in that situation, he didn’t know what support was available, or where to begin.
“When I was first diagnosed, my knowledge of what support is available was absolutely none,” Alistair says. “For a lot of things, we were starting from scratch.”
That uncertainty is something so many families can relate to. When facing a life-changing diagnosis, understanding the right adaptions can feel overwhelming. Often, you don’t know what you need. For Alistair, simply being able to explore his options made a difference, giving him some much-needed clarity. After popping into his local CareCo branch, trying products in person and sitting with some friendly and supportive staff, Alistair found a riser recliner that is more than comfortable – it's also flexible, meaning he can future proof his support.
With a condition like motor neurone disease, physical changes can be unpredictable. Strength and movement may alter over time, and what feels comfortable today may need adjusting tomorrow.
Scan here
To learn more about Alistair's story
Try for yourself
The Sereniti is a truly luxurious riser recliner available in a range of fabrics and colours and with four motors for total control over your comfort, posture and pressure relief.
And with four motors to adjust your leg height, recline, head support and lumbar support, it offers an infinite number of seating positions. With elegantly scrolled armrests and plush fabric upholstery, it looks just as good as it feels, too.
Scan here to find out more about the Comfourt Seeker Sereniti Riser Recliner
When I was first diagnosed, my knowledge of what support is available was absolutely none. For a lot of things, we were starting from scratch.
Alistair Beattie, CareCo customer
Alistair found reassurance in knowing a recliner chair could adapt with him and his needs. It offers tailored comfort from sitting to standing, and even the option to rest or sleep on if needed, with the reassurance of one less thing to worry about on a difficult day.
Just as important as the offering was the support he received at CareCo. He recalls the staff taking the time to listen, answer questions and suggest options he didn’t even know existed. “You don’t know what you don’t know,” he laughs, and that’s exactly why expert, compassionate guidance matters in a time of overwhelm.
For Alistair, the journey is ongoing. But finding practical support early has helped him focus less on what might be lost, and more on maintaining comfort, dignity and independence in the present.
Email: customerstories@careco.co.uk
Pop in for a cuppa
We have showrooms all across the UK, and we’re always excited to see our guests face to face.
Nothing beats getting hands-on when it comes to finding a mobility aid to make your every day easier. With new showrooms opening all the time, we’re on a mission to make it as easy as possible for you to try before you buy.
Free, easy parking in front of the store with easy access and customer toilet facilities available.
Thank you
for taking the time to read our fifth edition of CareCo Life.
We'd be nothing without the people who pop into our showrooms, pick up the phone or visit our website day in day out. It's why every single review means so much to us!
If you’re happy with our service, and we’ll always strive to make sure you are, we’d really appreciate a review on Trustpilot.
If you’re not completely satisfied, then our customer service team are on hand 7 days a week.
Call us on 0333 015 5000, or drop us a message on support@careco.co.uk and our friendly team will get back to you.
Just remember to keep an eye on your junk inbox in case our reply accidentally goes in there!
Leaders in this field
CareCo have constantly shown to be leaders in this field. The level of service is excellent & the staff are all very professional, helpful, caring & listen to what is needed, then act accordingly. It's a pleasure to deal with CareCo again & I shall definitely be returning in the future.
Date of experience: 27 February 2026
Michael Wade Excellent bath board and non slip mat delivered on time. Brilliant service.
Date of experience: 3 March 2026
Keith was extremely helpful at the Ipswich Showroom. He took time to let our mum try several different chairs ensuring she made the correct choice.
Date of experience: 25 February 2026
David Craig Extremely helpful
Brilliant service
Mrs Marian Pointer
over 36 months
Buy today spread the cost up to 36 months
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
Buy today spread the cost up to 36 months
Buy today spread the cost up to 36 months
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
36 months Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
over 36 months
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
Choose to spread over 36 months
Buy today spread the cost up to 36 months
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
Opt to pay 4 months and any
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
*Interest is charged from the day
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
Opt to pay your 4 months and any interest*
Choose to spread the cost over 36 months
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
Opt to pay your 4 months and any interest*
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
Opt to pay your 4 months and we’ll any interest*
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest* *Interest
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
*Interest is charged from the day your loan starts and will only be cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit advanced within the Pay in 4 period.
*Interest is charged from the day your loan cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit Pay in 4 period.
*Interest is charged from the day your loan cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit Pay in 4 period.
*Interest is charged from the day your loan starts and will only be cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit advanced within the Pay in 4 period.
*Interest
Opt to pay your loan o in 4 months and we’ll cancel any interest*
*Interest is charged from the day your loan starts cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit advanced Pay in 4 period.
*Interest is charged from the day your loan starts and will only be cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit advanced within the Pay in 4 period.
Representative
Representative
29.9% APR
29.9% APR
Representative
*Interest is charged from the day your loan starts cancelled if you pay o the amount of credit advanced Pay in 4 period.
Representative
Representative
29.9% APR
Representative 29.9% APR
Representative
29.9% APR
29.9% APR
Representative Example: Cost of
Representative
Representative
Representative
29.9% APR
29.9% APR
Representative
Representative
Representative
Representative Example: Cost of Goods £1200, Deposit £50, Amount of Credit £1,150, Annual Fixed Interest Rate 26.47%, Monthly Payment
Example: Cost of Goods £1200, Deposit £50, Amount of Credit £1,150, Annual Fixed Interest Rate 26.47%, Monthly Payment
£46.85, Term 36 months, Total Payable
£1736.60,
Representative Example: Cost of Goods £1200, Deposit £50, Amount of Credit £1,150, Annual Fixed Interest Rate 26.47%, Monthly Payment
£46.85, Term 36 months, Total Payable £1736.60, Representative 29.9% APR
£46.85, Term 36 months, Total Payable £1736.60, Representative 29.9%
