Musical memories: home resident shares sax story for Music Day
Roy's journey into the world of music began at a young age when he discovered the saxophone, albeit after initially aspiring to play the clarinet. Reminiscing about his early days, Roy fondly recalls the joy of attempting to play along with the hits on pirate radio, with early experiences shaping his deep passion for music.
After working as a potato picker, Roy eventually found his way to the saxophone when his clarinet needed new reeds, before eventually selling the instrument to purchase a ring for his now-wife, Jessie.
In 1970, The Roy Bishop Sound was born, named serendipitously after a bishop’s chess piece that happened to be in Roy's hand during a discussion about different names. The band began as a three-piece ensemble, and over time, it grew in numbers, incorporating a bass player, guitarists, and singers.
Roy, 87, who now lives with dementia, spoke fondly of his musical past: “I’m left with so many memories of happy times and a keen ear and passion for music. I still remember attending the concert of one of my biggest influences, Victor Silvester OBE, a musician from the British dance band era. The lights went down on an empty stage and when they came back on the piano player was sitting there and began playing, captivating the audience. I knew then I wanted to perform in similar venues, and I went on to have a lovely career.”
Music has a unique ability to stimulate memories and emotions, allowing individuals to reconnect with their past and evoke positive feelings whilst also helping to reduce agitation and improve mood — especially in those living with dementia. Reminiscing about these past times on World Music Day helps individuals to engage in meaningful conversations, promoting a sense of identity and belonging.
Dale Knighton, Activities Coordinator at Gabriel Court, said: “Talking to Roy about his past in music has made it clear to me that music has a great impact on people's memories and emotions. It’s been lovely hearing Roy share these memories and listen to some of the music of his life. Music is generational and is a great way to open up someone's world."
Discover the full story here...
ACI Care celebrates double triumph at Kent Care Awards
ACI Care’s The Old Rectory care home in Dymchurch has celebrated a double triumph at the Kent Care Awards.
Kelly Parker and Dalia Neves won Registered Manager and Dementia Champion respectively, at the ceremony at the Mercure Great Danes Hotel.
Parker said: “I’m delighted to have won an award but it’s also a testament to the incredible team I have the privilege to lead and the wonderful residents we care for. I’m grateful to those that have supported me and we will continue to work as a team to provide excellent standards of care.”
The Old Rectory’s sister home, Fairways Residential, in New Romney, received finalist awards in the following categories: Residential Registered Manager – Alison Yarnley; Workforce Development Award – Leah Hirst; Residential Champion – Georgia Hollis; Innovation Award – Michelle Millard; and Care Team – Fairways Residential Home.
Michelle Millard, head of operations at ACI Care, said: “We’re so proud of the winners and finalists across our two amazing homes. For us, the Kent Care Awards is about the industry coming together to celebrate amazing care for residents in our area. This is why we get out of bed each day.”
Check out the full article here...
Residents invite community to join their beach clean-up efforts
Residents from a Kent care home are appealing to the care community to join them in cleaning up beaches for International Coastal Cleanup Day — a global initiative dedicated to preserving the coastlines and protecting wildlife that also coincides with the Great British Beach Clean.
The Old Rectory, a branch of ACI Care that specialises in residential, respite and dementia care, is hoping to team up with members of their local community for a day of beach cleaning in Dymchurch – with its residents having expressed a desire to help maintain the environment for future generations.
As part of their efforts though, they’re appealing to the wider care community to get involved too – as they seek to sustain and maintain the environment for future generations.
In recent years, the growing problem of beach litter and pollution has been a cause for concern and hasn’t gone unnoticed by the residents of the New Hall Close home.
These concerns led to conversations about what they could do, and this resulted in proposing a beach clean up, which is now set to take place on September 16 at 2pm, just over an hour after high tide – a peak time for coastal debris.
Registered manager Kelly Parker said: “We’re really lucky to be so close to the sea, and our residents want to do their bit to help future generations enjoy it.” And whilst we’re doing our own beach clean, we’re encouraging other coastally based care communities to get involved too and go to their own local beaches on September 16.
“A scenario where care communities around the country get involved would be fantastic – and would set a wonderful example to younger generations and communities.”
As part of the cleanup, the team from the Old Rectory will provide participants with litter pickers, gloves, rubbish bags and high-vis jackets.
Celebrating Our Care Home Residents | ‘National "I Care About You” Day’
Would you like to hear the loving story of a devoted couple, both care home residents, who’ve been married for 65 years?
In honour of ‘National “I Care About You” Day’, we spoke to Don and Joan at The Old Rectory to hear their heartwarming tale.
Check out our blog to discover more…
‘National “I Care About You” Day’
The 25th of October marks ‘National “I Care About You” Day’.
This day gives you the opportunity to celebrate those around you and express your gratitude, showing that you care.
In 2009, this national day was created to recognise the importance of expressing love and appreciation for your friends, family and significant others.
This annual reminder helps you to take a step back and reconnect with others.
It’s important to show that you care to promote social and emotional well-being and strengthen your relationships with others.
A Strong Bond Between Care Home Residents
Don, aged 86, and Joan, aged 83, met when they were teenagers during Christmas of 1952.
Christmas is a time of spreading joy and love, and symbolises togetherness — something that was certainly the case for Don and Joan!
What started as a teenage love story, blossomed into a long life of love and commitment.
The pair were delighted to welcome two children throughout their 6 decades of marriage. Now married for 65 years, the couple share two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Don and Joan’s story now continues as they are both care home residents at The Old Rectory.
Care Home Residents | Don’s Advice For a Lasting Marriage
One of our beloved care home residents, Don, said: “I’d never had a girlfriend before Joan, but when we met, we just slotted together. Our relationship has been very happy and very successful, so we can confidently say we’ve had a good marriage.”
The couple credited their long-lasting marriage to; “saying sorry if you’re in the wrong and telling each other that you love them.”
‘National “I Care About You” Day’ recognises the importance of expressing genuine affection for your loved ones and showing that you care for them.
Through meaningful words and thoughtful actions, this can help to strengthen connections.
In our care home setting, strong bonds and connections can have a positive impact on the quality of our residents’ lives, providing them with a comfortable and trusting environment.
Joan’s Thoughts | 65 Years Married
Reminiscing on their earlier days, Joan said “He used to come by my house every night, and in those days we used to sit by the open fire. My mum, step-dad, Don and I would play cards before the television came, but that’s what it was like back then, and we enjoyed it.”
At ACI Care, we aim to promote a warm, comfortable atmosphere for our residents and we understand the importance of assisting with fostering new connections and strengthening existing relationships.
We encourage our care home residents to regularly engage in stimulating activities to provide a sense of normalcy and social interaction.
Regular activities also help provide our residents to relive pastimes and engage in games they used to enjoy.
Celebrating National Days With Our Care Home Residents
Our Registered Manager at The Old Rectory, Kelly Parker, said: “Don and Joan’s story is truly heartwarming and they stand as a testament to the enduring power of love and companionship.
“Their relationship is a reminder that a bit of compassion goes a long way in a happy marriage, and we’re looking forward to helping them continue their journey together for years to come at The Old Rectory.”
Celebrating national holidays and awareness days helps our residents feel connected to the wider community, and the world at large.
This also provides them with the opportunity to learn about, and respect, other cultures and traditions, creating an inclusive community.
To learn more about the care we provide at ACI Care, please contact a member of our team.
Alternatively, why not check out our recent blog on Halloween activities at our Gabriel Court care home.
Fun Halloween Activities | Discover How We're Celebrating Halloween at Gabriel Court
Are you looking for some fun Halloween activities this October?
At Gabriel Court, our residents are getting into the spirit of Halloween with a range of themed ideas and activities. Read on to discover how you can also enjoy the spooky season...
Fun Halloween Activities: Pumpkin Painting
Avoid the mess of pumpkin carving and dig out the paintbrushes to reveal your inner picasso!
Pumpkin painting is a great way to embrace the Halloween spirit. It’s suitable for all generations, with minimal cost and maximum fun.
Get creative with colours, whether you prefer traditional or wacky designs, or want to experiment with glow-in-the-dark paints.
Themed Baking Ideas
Trick or Treat is set in Halloween tradition but, this year, why don’t you drop the trick and keep the treat?
Baking is a great way to enjoy the season — and you don't have to be the world's best patisserie chef or the next ‘Bake Off’ winner to get started!
From pumpkin cheesecake to spider biscuits, there are plenty of fun, easy bakes to try your hand at this Halloween.
In fact, why not bring some of your favourite creations to Gabriel Court this October?
Sharing these delicious treats over a cup of tea is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together and is sure to bring a smile to your loved one’s face.
Fun Halloween Activities: Spooky Games
Now the weather is colder, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some family time with Halloween-themed games.
Whether it’s a round of Cluedo or homemade Halloween bingo, there are plenty of fun ideas for celebrating the spooky season.
One of our favourite ideas is to create your own tin can bowling game.
Simply paint a series of tin cans in a Halloween theme (Frankenstein, ghost, pumpkin, mummy, and a black cat for starters). Once dry, stack them up and compete to knock them down using a tennis ball.
Host a Halloween Film Night
Film nights are an ideal way to bring everyone together and round off the day.
Get cosy watching family favourites like 'The Addams Family', Roald Dahl’s 'The Witches', or Tim Burton’s comical but equally scary 'BeetleJuice.'
In the run-up to Halloween, why not put together a graze board (filled with Halloween-themed nibbles), cosy up under a blanket with a crackling fire, and enjoy a family film night!
Fun Halloween Activities: Creepy Clay Modelling
Still stuck for fun Halloween activities and ideas? Why not try clay modelling?
Shape and mould a range of spooky characters, from ghosts and ghouls to vampires and creepy crawlies, and let the clay air dry, before painting, or adding any final touches.
Clay modelling is a great activity for all ages and provides plenty of fun. It’s particularly beneficial for older adults, as it helps improve dexterity in the hands and enhances fine motor skills.
Embark on an Autumnal Walk
If you’re looking for fun Halloween activities but would rather avoid the spooky element, why not embark on a nature-themed walk instead?
There are a myriad of beautiful green spaces in Kettering, perfect for exploring the local area.
Take a travel mug with a warming coffee, head out in the early morning frost and enjoy spotting wildlife hiding among the autumn leaves.
If you’d like to visit your loved one this Halloween, please contact a member of our team, and we’ll make sure the diary is clear for you to enjoy some quality time together!
Or, if you’re looking for a care home in Kettering for your loved one and would like to know more about Gabriel Court, please book a tour, and we’ll gladly show you around.
Alternatively, why not read our previous blog to discover how we promote healthy living at our Fairways care home?
Hastings care residents' bond shines for Friendship Day
Peggy and Barbara, residents at Mountside Care Home, a branch of ACI Care that specialise in residential, dementia and respite care, recently struck up a friendship after finding that both their daughters worked as exam invigilators at local schools.
From then on, the duo became inseparable with staff always finding the pair deep in conversation with a hot drink or taking part in one of the home’s many activities.
Speaking of their newfound friendship, Peggy said: “It’s great having someone to talk to who understands me and she always knows how to make me laugh.” Whilst Barbara added: “We really enjoy each other's company and doing things together.”
Mountside strongly encourages the forming of new friendships and relationships to promote socialisation and positive mental health. The home also strives to make every resident feel part of the community and to try and alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness that are more prevalent amongst elderly care residents – with 60% of people in care homes reporting they get no visitors, according to Age UK.
Peggy previously worked in a village shop and post office, whilst Barbara, a resident at Mountside for 12 years, worked as a nanny for Lord Peckingham. Both ladies will be enjoying a cup of tea and a slice of cake tea together to mark the day and show gratitude to the companionship Mountside offers its residents.
Ravi Sodha, Director of ACI Care, said: “We believe that friendship knows no age limits, and Peggy and Barbara's beautiful bond is a testament to that. It’s lovely to witness such genuine connections between our residents, proving that companionship and laughter can brighten any stage of life.”
International Friendship Day seeks to promote the role that friendship plays across all cultures. The United Nations encourages society groups to hold events, activities and initiatives that contribute to the efforts of the community towards promoting a dialogue of solidarity, mutual understanding and reconciliation.
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Kettering home resident celebrates World Music Day
A former professional saxophonist and Kettering care home resident living with dementia has been reminiscing over his days fronting a band to mark World Music Day (Wednesday, June 21).
Gabriel Court, a branch of ACI Care that specialises in residential, respite and dementia care, has been encouraging its residents to share stories and memories about music, with Roy Tosh’s anecdotes particularly striking a chord with other residents and carers.
After working as a potato picker, Roy eventually found his way to the saxophone when his clarinet needed new reeds, before eventually selling the instrument to buy a ring for his now-wife, Jessie.
In 1970, The Roy Bishop Sound was born, named serendipitously after a bishop’s chess piece that happened to be in Roy's hand during a discussion about different names.
The band began as a three-piece ensemble, and over time, it grew in numbers, incorporating a bass player, guitarists and singers.
Roy, 87, who now lives with dementia, spoke fondly of his musical past saying: “I’m left with so many memories of happy times and a keen ear and passion for music.
"I still remember attending the concert of one of my biggest influences, Victor Silvester OBE, a musician from the British dance band era.
"The lights went down on an empty stage and when they came back on the piano player was sitting there and began playing, captivating the audience.
"I knew then I wanted to perform in similar venues, and I went on to have a lovely career.”
Music has a unique ability to stimulate memories and emotions, allowing individuals to reconnect with their past and evoke positive feelings while also helping to reduce agitation and improve mood — especially in those living with dementia.
Reminiscing about these past times on World Music Day helps individuals to engage in meaningful conversations, promoting a sense of identity and belonging.
Dale Knighton, activities coordinator at Gabriel Court, said: “Talking to Roy about his past in music has made it clear to me that music has a great impact on people's memories and emotions.
"It’s been lovely hearing Roy share these memories and listen to some of the music of his life.
"Music is generational and is a great way to open up someone's world."
Hastingshome praised by CQC inspectors
Mountside Care Home, a branch of ACI Care that specialises in residential, respite and dementia care, recently received a ‘Good’ rating from the CQC, building on its ‘requires improvement’ rating from the year before.
Inspectors commended the Laton Road home for performing well and meeting expectations following an inspection in November.
The report said the home was ‘clean, well-maintained and comfortable’ noting that ‘there were enough staff to meet people's needs’.
Mountside said the most recent report details the home’s transformation and how ‘the providers' governance systems had improved and were being used consistently to improve the service.’
At the time of inspection, 40 people were living at the home and CQC recognised that ‘people were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives, while staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests.’
Ravi Sodha, director of ACI Care, said: “This is a very significant milestone for Mountside as we continue on our journey to provide the very best care to the Hastings community. We’re absolutely delighted to have improved on our CQC rating from last year and it's a true testament to the efforts of our staff to see major improvements.”
Taking on board advice from the last inspection, the home said it followed a stringent action plan which included upgrading the care planning software and recruiting a new and enthusiastic staff team to work alongside the dedicated long-standing staff on the continuous improvement of the home.
Ravi said: "We are continually building a strong team at Mountside as we all work together to make it a great place to both work for our carers and live for our residents. As we continue to grow and improve, so will our inspection rating.”
When questioned as part of the report, a resident said: "I feel safe, the staff are amazing, and they look after me well and look out for us all.
"I enjoy the activities, we play bingo and have quizzes, I have plenty to do. I can join in the activities or watch television. My family can take me out and I will meet friends for lunch here. I’m settled, the staff are good and seem to be highly efficient and trained, so I don't have any worries."
Read the full article here.
Hastings care worker honored with surprise party for 30 years
Shelagh Hazleton started working at Mountside Care Home, a branch of ACI Care that specialises in residential, respite and dementia care, in 1992 – where she joined to assist residents with their hair, before volunteering with afternoon activities.
Staff and residents at the Laton Road home kept the celebrations a secret so Shelagh was overwhelmed when she walked into the lounge to be greeted by a room of smiling faces. Even some residents who would normally stay in their room opted to come out and share Shelagh’s special afternoon. She was given a card full of warming messages, a bottle of wine and a beautiful clock, and the home’s chef Steve had prepared a buffet.
The rewarding job has seen Shelagh spend three decades at the care home, ensuring each resident is engaged, happy and their needs are met. Shelagh, who is now the home’s activities coordinator, joined after her husband’s grandmother became a resident at Mountside thirty years ago.
By showing kindness, Shelagh received kindness in return. Mountside wanted to offer Shelagh a full-time position after seeing her patience and empathy with the residents during her voluntary work but she initially turned down the offer due to childcare struggles of her newborn daughter, Louise. However, not wanting to lose Shelagh and the great work she does, the home offered the solution for Shelagh to bring Louise to work with her so she could continue her duties whilst keeping an eye on her daughter. This delighted some of the residents, with one finding particular joy in cuddling and feeding Louise.
Shelagh leads various activities throughout the week, trying to make each day different and engaging. Some of the most popular activities include board games, card games, magnetic darts and bingo on a Friday. She goes above and beyond to ensure all residents' needs are met, and for those who don’t wish to leave their rooms, Shelagh sits with them one-to-one and encourages them to play cribbage and cards, or just engage in conversation.
Speaking of her time at the care home, Shelagh Hazleton said: “It’s amazing. I love my job every single day. It’s hard work but very rewarding. In fact, the rewards you get from it far outweigh the hard work.”
Talking of one of her fondest memories, she recalls: “We did have one lady who thought our Elvis performer was the real Elvis. Her heart would melt the minute he came in and her family always paid for him to come and sing for us all. Even when her dementia got quite bad she could always recognise Elvis, and it was lovely to see!”
Not falling far from the tree, in what could be considered fate, Shelagh was born in the house opposite the care home where she now works. Reminiscing over its history, she recalls that the property was two separate buildings - one being a boys school, and the other a house that was sold to become a care home. The care home took over the house next door, combining the properties and adding an extension to make it what stands today, before ACI Care acquired it in 2020.
Kimberley Mann, fellow activities coordinator at Mountside Care Home, said: “Shelagh is amazing with the residents and she really takes her time to ensure they are all happy and accounted for. Even those who don’t want to come out of their rooms and participate in activities, Shelagh is happy to go and just spend time with them one-on-one for a chat.
“To reach a 30-year milestone working at a care home is amazing. There is always bad press about care homes being understaffed and experiencing high turnover, but amongst all the noise there is a Shelagh who wouldn't want to be doing anything else, and in Mountside’s case, the residents wouldn’t want anyone else here either. It’s a pleasure to be able to work alongside her in creating a bit of magic for our residents’ lives every day.”
Read the story online here: https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/news/surprise-party-for-hastings-care-home-worker-who-reached-30-year-milestone-3951113
Hastings care home residents celebrate International Men's Day
Staff at Mountside Care Home organised a special afternoon for its male residents to mark International Men’s Day on Saturday November 19.
After being invited to the Valley View Lounge inside Mountside Care Home, residents enjoyed beer, snacks, a game of snooker and a pub quiz.
International Men’s Day is also a chance to encourage men to speak up and discuss their mental health. There are various emotional and physical benefits of socialising in a group, including creating feelings of belonging and security, reduced stress, and reduced feelings of loneliness.
The afternoon was a success amongst residents, with Colin Rook, 78, saying: “I really enjoyed the afternoon and the lunch was really tasty.” Residents also enjoyed a bit of friendly competition as a team of men went head-to-head with the women at the pub quiz. The men came out on top but fellow resident Betty White, 80, joked: “We only let the men win as it was their special day.”
Mountside Care Home’s activity coordinator, Shelagh Hazleton, said: “It was lovely to see so many happy faces, the afternoon was a great success. Even the ladies played their part in helping the men feel special and loved.
“We have a great community here and we aim to make everyone feel special every day, not just on a specific day - but it was a great excuse to celebrate and have a fun afternoon!”
Mountside Care Home regularly hosts activities for its residents to promote wellbeing and keep them active both physically and mentally, in and outside of the home.
International Men's Day started in Trinidad and Tobago in 1999, where it was created by Dr Jerome Tuluck Singh to commemorate his father's birthday. It is now celebrated in over 80 countries with the aim of highlighting the social issues faced by men both mentally and physically.