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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.

Baked Salmon and Creamy Chive Sauce

This baked salmon is perfect for our residents, filled with omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and brain function. We were inspired by HelloFresh to pair it with a creamy chive sauce, which went down a treat!

How we use colour in a care home

Colour in a care home affects residents more than we think. It has a direct impact on how we view our environment, which then influences our emotions and wellbeing. And this is especially true for older adults, as colour can help our residents better move around the home, and better distinguish the objects around them.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pineapple upside down cake has been around since the 1920s, and its tangy flavour has been raved about for over 100 years! It’s a firm favourite at Birchwood House, both for its taste and for the nostalgia it brings to our residents. And when you look at how simple it isContinue reading “Pineapple Upside Down Cake”

Birchwood House review: thoughts from the community

Birchwood House review: thoughts from the community This month, Birchwood House completed the Quality Assurance Questionnaire, a survey for our residents and their loved ones. This is essential feedback for us, and the results are used to shape and develop the care we provide. We’re always looking to stay on top of the game, andContinue reading “Birchwood House review: thoughts from the community”

Tomato & Basil Tart

Tomato & Basil Tart Appetites tend to decrease in the summer, so it’s important to have meals that can feel like a light bite, without compromising on flavour. Tomatoes are perfect for this – although they’re available in supermarkets all year round, July to September is when they’re most in season, offering the best textureContinue reading “Tomato & Basil Tart”

Sensory Stimulation

Sensory Stimulation What activities do our residents like? Sensory stimulation is essential for older people, with many activities enhancing both cognitive and physical function. We find it’s the best way to enrich life, giving our residents multiple opportunities to connect with the world around them. We want to fill their day with actions that fuelContinue reading “Sensory Stimulation”

Chicken & Bacon Caesar Salad

Looking for a quick summer meal that’s both filling and light-weight? We’ve got just the thing! This chicken & bacon caesar salad is the perfect flavour combination, with low effort and minimal ingredients. For the salad, we’ve used romaine lettuce from our own veggie plot in our grounds, but you could use any store-bought caesar salad if it’s easier.