“Keep active”: Free-spirited Sutton Coldfield resident reveals secret to living to 101

Birthday celebrations were in full swing at Care UK’s Mercia Grange, on Lichfield Road, when resident Joy McCliskie celebrated her 101st birthday.

Reflecting on her long life, Joy said that “trying McDonald’s for the first time at the age of 100” was a highlight. Joy added: “I never feel too old to learn new things”.

She also revealed that the secret to a long life is having a “good set of genes and to keep active”.

On the big day, the home team organised a party surrounded by her friends and family at Mercia Grange. In true celebratory fashion, the team decorated the home’s lounge with balloons, banners and surprised Joy with a special birthday cake, baked by the one of team at the home, for everyone to enjoy.

Commenting on the day, Joy said: “My favourite part of the day was see my whole family – there were over 20 people at my party! I really enjoyed the cake and being surrounded by family and friends.”

When asked how Joy feels to be 101, she smiled and said: “I feel the same”.

Joy was born in Oldbury on 5th November 1923, before moving to Sutton Coldfield after marrying her husband, Douglas, in 1948. She worked as an SEN orthopaedic nurse at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital for her entire career – over eight years.

A keen knitter, Joy has two daughters, Alison and Kate, and four grandchildren.

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “Joy is a beloved resident at Mercia Grange, and it was a pleasure to help her celebrate this tremendous milestone.

“Everything we do centres around helping residents to live fulfilling lives, which is why we are always eager to mark special occasions and Joy’s 101st birthday was no exception.

“It was a delight to hear her sound advice to living a long life which we can all learn from. Let’s all raise a glass in her honour – happy birthday, Joy!”

Mercia Grange is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term respite care. The three-storey care home, which features 67 ensuite bedrooms, has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.