Berkshire Care Home Resident And Local Celebrity Enjoys 106th Birthday

Some people say: “Age is just a number.” But is it really true? For Irene Muggeridge, that certainly is the case!

She has just celebrated her 106th birthday at RMBI Care Co. Home Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, in Wokingham, surrounded by fellow residents and her family. She also enjoyed her toy cat Toby’s company. “I always had a dog, so I thought it was the right time in my life to have a cat!” she joked. Irene was presented with many birthday cards from her family, residents and staff members.

At her age, Irene joins in many activities at the care home, especially sing-a-longs. “I usually know all the words!” she says with a cheeky smile. “Irene has a fantastic sense of humour and a kind word for everyone. She’s such a valued person at the Home,” says Sharon, one of the Activities Coordinators at Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court.

A couple of years ago, Irene became famous in the local area. Her Home had joined the Unit Award Scheme (UAS), which allows student residents to engage with learning and have their achievements formally recognised. Under this scheme, Irene took up arts and crafts lessons to create her own woollen pom-pom, an accomplishment that came with an official certificate.

Irene’s achievement made it to the local press. Everyone at the care home was elated for her. She said: “I don’t think of my age. I put it out of my mind. I don’t think about me being over a 100. You are only as young as you feel, and I feel young. Even at my age, I am happy to have a go at anything.”