Joy celebrates her 100th birthday in style

Joy, who has been receiving care from Home Instead for over a year, was treated to a week of memorable surprises, beginning with a manicure from Lou, one of Home Instead Bedford’s trained nail care professionals. Joy was absolutely thrilled with the experience, commenting: "I will never forget this moment!".

To top off the celebrations, Joy's family threw her a surprise 100th birthday party, attended by friends, her loving nephew, and his wife. Joy’s care professionals from Home Instead were delighted to attend the event, which was filled with thoughtful touches, including a beautifully decorated cake, balloons, and heartfelt birthday wishes from all who joined her. The day was made truly special as Joy was surrounded by those closest to her, making the milestone celebration a tremendous success. 

Joy has lived a fascinating life and at the age of 18, she joined the Women's Land Army during World War II and worked on the farms in Kempston. One of her fondest memories was working on the milk round, delivering milk with a horse-drawn cart and her beloved horse, Jenny.  

Joy commented: “It was hard work in the Land Army, you had to get up early, thresh crops, dig up potatoes, and move from farm to farm. But it was fun, and it was working with Jenny that gave me my lifelong love for horses.” 

After her time in the Land Army, Joy went on to become a hairdresser, a career she thoroughly enjoyed. Even today, Joy’s love for horses continues, and she remains an avid fan of horse racing.  

Head of Client Experience at Home Instead Bedford, Ciara Burke, asked Joy what her secret was to a long life and looking so good at 100. She replied: “to be honest, I don’t really know!” 

Moona Karim, Owner of Home Instead Bedford, commented: “We are honoured to have been able to celebrate Joy’s 100th birthday with her. She’s a wonderful lady, and it was a privilege to help make her day as special as possible. At Home Instead, our team is committed to providing exceptional care and creating meaningful moments for our clients, and we wish Joy another fantastic year ahead!”