We have enjoyed Burns Night celebrations and the Chinese New Year with fabulous themed feasts created by our chefs. There was an ode to the haggis, neaps, tatties and cranachan on the menu for Burns Night. Plus crafting to tie in with the events: We decorated our home with long paperchains for the Chinese year of the snake.
We also marked Read Out Loud Day. Residents were less keen to read but enjoyed the listening and choosing pictures instead, that brought back memories or made them laugh out loud. We will be sharing stories with the Debutots children for World Book Day in March and hearing about their new favourite story book characters. The Debutots have resumed their Spring term visits. They are such a delight and our residents love to see them - bubble machine at the ready!
There have been birthday celebrations, pampering sessions in our salon, with blow drys and facials, and enjoying favourite hobbies. Our sing-along Fridays are still a hit with residents and a wonderfully uplifting way to round off the week. One of our residents, Dave, was recently in full voice - we had no idea how talented a singer he is. He will be taking requests next time!
Residents have made the most of any dry days to get out into the garden and check on the garden beds they tended before Christmas. They are looking forward to the bulbs popping up and some signs of Spring. We also spent an evening wrapped up warm doing some stargazing. We saw Venus close to the crescent moon and spotted star constellations. Did you know Venus is meant to be at its brightest in the sky this Valentines Day.
February and March and looking towards Spring
February is Dignity in Action month celebrating all that our team have accomplished in delivering dignified care and support to residents. We shall be raising awareness by having activities focused on the theme of Dignity – or, to keep things fun, Digni-tea! Plus, three little deeds to spread kindness, respect and compassion.
Nutrition and Hydration week is also in March when we focus on the importance of hydration for the elderly. There are tips to stay hydrated and we look at how to up our fluids in more fun ways, such as mocktails and smoothies. We have already introduced our Astley Bar trolley, with lots of alternative non-alcoholic drinks to make staying hydrated more appealing. And there is sometimes a tipple of choice – as one of our residents likes to say “A little of what you fancy does you good”.
Coming up, we have plans for Mothering Sunday and St Patrick’s Day. There is also Dementia UK Time for a Cuppa in March and we like to support this cause that is so close to our hearts.
We also want to resume day trips, especially as we move into Spring. One of our residents used to love playing bingo at Shipleys in Kidderminster, two or three times a week. We see no reason why that has to stop – so we are off to Shipleys for some bingo fun and hope to make this a regular event. We are brushing up on our bingo lingo and have fingers crossed for a full house!