Keeping the residents at Birchwood House mentally and physically active is the job of Activities Co-ordinator Zoe.
Zoe has been at Birchwood for four years as night care staff but recently changed roles to take up the activity post, working alongside co-ordinator Amanda.
And Zoe is bubbling with ideas to keep the residents entertained and interacting with each other.
“We have made some pottery creations and will be painting the items this week, and we are planning an Ascot Ladies’ Day event later this month where we can make hats and watch the racing,” said Zoe.
On the physical side the residents enjoy balloon tennis played and chair exercises. There are also plans for flower arranging, basket weaving and candle making.
Staff and residents have really missed trips out of the home as these have not been allowed due to Covid-19, but when things open up there are plans to visit the seaside, have a pub lunch and go and watch the cricket on the village green.
“I have been chatting to the residents to find out where they would like to go when trips are allowed, and some of the ladies want to go clothes shopping or just to go out into the countryside,” added Zoe.
“We are also planning a spa day when the residents will get manicures, and they always enjoy games like hangman and bingo,” added Zoe.
For residents not able to join in the communal activities Zoe and Amanda do one-to-one sessions with them in their rooms, making things such as sun-catchers or just chatting.
“Many of the residents like to chat about when they were young and about their families, or about holiday memories, and I enjoy listening to them,” added Zoe.
If you would like to know more please complete our online enquiry form, call us on 01892 863559 or email us at birchwood@birchwoodhouse.org.uk.
Other articles you may like
- Gluten free chocolate cakes
Gluten free chocolate cakes There’s nothing better than chocolate for a sweet treat, and these gluten free chocolate cakesContinue reading “Gluten free chocolate cakes” - How can we manage stress to promote wellbeing?
We all know what it’s like to feel stressed, and we all have certain triggers. Whether it’s a deadline at work, a missed flight, or a new social situation, stress is a natural part of life. But as we get older, these stress triggers can change. Our health, and the health of our loved ones, becomes a more prominent source of stress, especially as this is something out of our control. On top of that, there’s the possible move into a care home, which can be a hard transition to navigate. At Birchwood House, we want to recognise the impact stress can have on our wellbeing, whilst using gentle, effective ways to reduce anxiety. So, what are some of the ways we manage stress to promote wellbeing? - National Hot Tea Month: why do we like tea so much?
January is National Hot Tea Month, and there is nothing better than a good cup of tea. It’s one of life’s small pleasures, and it’s a daily routine for many, including for us at Birchwood House! Tea is also rooted in long-standing tradition and cultural significance. Legend says that tea was discovered by Emperor Shen Nung all the way back in 2732 BC, when leaves from a wild tree accidentally blew into his pot of boiling water. Tea came to Europe in the early 1600s, and we’ve been drinking it ever since. To celebrate National Hot Tea Month, here are some of our favourite reasons why we drink it! - Vegetarian Suet Roulade
New year, new recipes! This month, Chef John aced his homemade vegetarian suet roulade. This is the perfect hearty winter meal, with roasted veg packed with soft suet pastry. We’ve paired this with mash, braised cabbage and vegetarian gravy, but it also goes great with a cheese sauce. - Christmas crafts
Merry Christmas! This month is filled with festive fun for our residents, which means all sorts of Christmas crafts to get involved with. And these activities are suitable for anyone; crafting is a great way to boost mood, stimulate our brains, and make memories with those around us. We’re sharing a run-down of how we’ve been making the most of this holiday season – use it as inspiration and show us anything you make! - Clementine Panna Cotta
Clementine Panna Cotta This dessert has been going down a treat with our residents! Inspired by taste buds, thisContinue reading “Clementine Panna Cotta” - Gentle exercises for older adults
When we get older, finding ways to move our body can get harder. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible! Using low-impact, gentle exercise is a great way to stay active without putting too much strain on ourselves. Regular movement is important for a number of reasons, not to mention the physical and mental health benefits. A recent report by Care England even showed that regular physical activity is improving the health, confidence, and wellbeing of residents in care homes, and could even deliver savings of up to £96 million to the NHS. - Mediterranean Roasted Chicken Breasts
This is a dish packed with flavour and spice. The chicken is filled with amino acids to support muscle growth and brain function, whilst the vegetables are rich in fibre and antioxidants. Both warming and filling, we’ve taken inspiration from The Cafe Sucre Farine to make this healthy, easy dinner. - How did our residents celebrate National Baking Week?
Happy National Baking Week! From Monday (October 13th) to Sunday (October 19th), we’re celebrating the joy and benefits of baking. Because, as you may have already seen on our Facebook, baking is a firm favourite at Birchwood House. Whether it’s sweet treats or savoury goods, we make sure baking is a regular activity. There are always recipes to try, techniques to learn, and opportunities to discover something new.
