Mountside NY Festivities and Fun
The start of 2025 was celebrated in style at Mountside Care Home as residents and staff came together for a joyful New Year’s celebration. With an array of refreshments, lively party games, and the undeniable star of the show—an assortment of delicious buns—the day was a perfect mix of fun and festivity.
Residents delighted in the sweet treats as they shared stories of past New Year’s celebrations and made plans for the year ahead. “It’s such a joy to see everyone so engaged and happy. Celebrations like this remind us of the importance of community and togetherness.”
Celebrations culminated in a heartfelt toast to the New Year. Residents and staff raised their glasses to wish each other health, happiness, and a year filled with wonderful moments.
To share the joy beyond their walls, Mountside Care Home extended warm wishes to their wider community. “We want to wish everyone a very Happy New Year. We’re grateful for the love and support of our residents’ families and our local community. Here’s to a fantastic 2025!”
Fairways Kicks Off 2025
Introduction
As the New Year begins, residents and staff at Fairways Care Home, New Romney Kicks off 2025 with a meaningful tradition to set the tone for the year ahead: a New Year Reflection Activity.
This engaging and heartwarming exercise invited everyone to look back on the joys of the past year, express gratitude, and affirm the positive qualities that make them unique.
Residents Reflections
As part of the New Year Reflection Activity, residents embraced the opportunity to reflect on what truly brings them joy. The activity was designed to encourage self-reflection, kindness, and a strong sense of community. Residents were invited to share both big and small moments that made them smile, along with positive affirmations for the year ahead.
The reflections shared were heartwarming, revealing the simple pleasures that make life meaningful. Responses ranged from “eating food makes me smile” to “seeing my family,” highlighting the importance of cherishing everyday moments and the connections with loved ones. This activity also offered a chance for residents to focus on gratitude, helping foster a positive mindset and enhancing mental well-being as Fairways Care Home, New Romney kicks off 2025 with a focus on community and reflection
Staff Reflections
For the Fairways Care Home, New Romney team, the New Year Reflection Activity was more than just a moment of fun—it was an opportunity to strengthen bonds between residents and staff. One team member shared, ‘This activity is a beautiful way to connect with each other and remind ourselves of the things that truly matter. It’s heartwarming to see everyone share their thoughts and celebrate the new year together.
Looking Forward To The New Year
Fairways Care Home, New Romney kicks off 2025 by fostering a culture of kindness and gratitude, with more activities planned throughout the year to promote well-being and togetherness. As the year unfolds, the spirit of reflection and affirmation established by this New Year activity will serve as a strong foundation for the months ahead
Dancing into the New Year with Joy
The Old Rectory Care Home welcomed 2025 in style, with residents and staff enjoying a lively evening of dancing and celebration.
The home was filled with music, laughter, and the sounds of happy feet as everyone came together to ring in the New Year with joy and energy. The atmosphere was electric as staff joined in the fun, ensuring everyone felt included in the celebrations.
The festivities featured a vibrant mix of music, from timeless classics to modern hits, ensuring everyone had a chance to showcase their moves. Residents twirled and swayed with the help of staff, while others clapped and tapped along from their seats, embracing the spirit of celebration.
“I haven’t danced this much in years!” said one resident with a smile. “It’s wonderful to welcome the New Year surrounded by so much happiness.”
To spread the cheer beyond their walls, The Old Rectory shared a special message: “Happy New Year from all of us at The Old Rectory Care Home! May 2025 bring joy, health, and happiness to you and your loved ones.”
Gabriel Court Enjoys Puzzles
Residents at Gabriel Court Care Home recently spent a delightful day solving puzzles and engaging in guided activities that brought both fun and mental stimulation.
From classic games like naughts and crosses to assembling intricate jigsaw puzzles, the event was a wonderful opportunity to exercise minds and enjoy a sense of accomplishment.
The day was thoughtfully planned to cater to all skill levels, ensuring everyone could participate and feel included. Care staff provided gentle guidance and support, helping residents who needed assistance with the puzzles.
This encouragement fostered a collaborative and cheerful atmosphere where everyone worked together to complete a jigsaw puzzle or strategised over naughts and crosses.
“Activities like these are fantastic for keeping the mind active while also creating moments of joy and togetherness. It’s not just about solving puzzles; it’s about the laughter, teamwork, and pride that come with it.”
With the success of Puzzle Day, Gabriel Court Care Home is already planning similar events to keep the momentum going. From board games to arts and crafts, the team is dedicated to offering diverse activities that enhance residents’ quality of life.
Festive Fun During Elf Day
The Old Rectory was brimming with holiday magic as we celebrated Elf Day, a joyful occasion filled with festive fun and a touch of mischievous cheer!
Our team of little helpers, dressed in their finest elf attire, brought smiles and laughter to every corner of the home. From cheeky antics to heartfelt moments, they spread the spirit of the season, creating an atmosphere that was as warm as it was merry.
The day was packed with activities that delighted residents and staff alike. There were cheerful crafts, giggle-worthy games, and plenty of photo opportunities with our playful elves.
It wasn’t just about the fun—it was about the connections and unforgettable memories made. The laughter, smiles, and shared joy reminded us all of the simple pleasures that make the holidays so special.
A big thank you to everyone who joined in the festivities and made Elf Day such a wonderful celebration. Here’s to more holiday cheer and mischief as we continue to enjoy the season at The Old Rectory!
Christmas Cheer Rings Out
Mountside Care Home was filled with the joyous sounds of the season as the care home welcomed the wonderful Singing Allsorts Community Choir for a festive performance that brightened everyone's day.
The choir brought their heartfelt holiday spirit, performing a selection of classic Christmas carols and cheerful seasonal tunes that had residents and staff alike tapping their toes, clapping their hands, and singing along. The warm harmonies and lively melodies created a magical atmosphere, transforming the home into a winter wonderland of music and joy.
We were delighted to hear their favourite Christmas songs, with many joining in and reminiscing about fond Christmas memories. The visit from The Singing Allsorts wasn’t just a performance—it was a musical connection that truly lifted spirits and brought everyone closer together during this special time of year.
We are incredibly grateful to the choir for sharing their time and talent, making our home feel even more festive. Moments like these remind us of the power of community and the joy of celebrating together.
From all of us at Mountside Care Home, thank you to The Singing Allsorts for spreading holiday cheer and making this day so memorable!
Fairways Christmas Panto
At Fairways Care Home, the festive season got off to a dazzling start with a fun-filled day of laughter, creativity, and community spirit! The highlight of the day was a Christmas performance organised by our wonderful volunteer, Sandra, whose boundless energy and enthusiasm brought everyone together for a truly memorable event.
The show featured our talented team and visitors taking on whimsical roles to entertain and delight. Rica featured as a fitness instructor, keeping everyone energised with her routines. Dan showcased his tennis prowess with impressive moves, Enid took a splash into swimming with her imaginative act, while Terry wowed as the resident hairstylist, giving a festive twist to the performance. Perhaps the most surprising moment was when manager, Alison stepped into the spotlight as a turkey plucker—a comedic turn that had everyone in stitches!
The fun didn’t stop there. The day concluded with the delicious aroma of festive treats filling the air as residents and visitors enjoyed warm mince pies and mulled wine. The grand finale was a joyful sing-along of Christmas songs, spreading cheer and creating heartwarming memories for everyone involved.
Happy holidays from all of us at Fairways
Festive Joy Features in Sussex World Online
Residents at Mountside Care Home were recently treated to a day of festive joy and heartfelt kindness that has since captured the attention of Sussex World. The news outlet featured a heartwarming story about Matt and Christine, the creative duo behind Five Dollar Shake - Handmade Greetings Cards, and their unforgettable visit to the care home.
The article highlights how the couple surprised residents with an enchanting collection of handmade Christmas cards, each one brimming with festive charm. But as Sussex World reported, the generosity didn’t stop there—Matt and Christine spent time with every resident, helping them select the perfect card for their loved ones, adding a deeply personal touch to the occasion.
Read the full story in Sussex World here.
Sussex Express Covers School Academy Visit
Mountside Care Home intergenerational visit from Ark Blacklands Primary Academy features in the Sussex Express.
The special intergenerational gathering warmed hearts and created lasting memories bringing together the wisdom of age and the energy of youth in a joyful celebration of community.
The event was part of Mountside Care Home’s ongoing efforts to create a sense of connection with the wider community. Intergenerational activities have been shown to improve well-being, reduce loneliness among older adults, and teach children valuable lessons about empathy and respect.
The full story can be seen in The Sussex Express in a proud spotlight online showcasing the power of community connections and the joy of bringing generations together.
Mountside Care Home is looking forward to spreading even more cheer, with a renewed focus on the importance of community spirit and connection.
Fairways Enjoy Sensory Fun
Fairways Care Home was recently buzzing with creativity and sensory stimulation as residents enjoyed a day of hands-on crafts and interactive games designed to spark joy and enhance memory.
The vibrant arts and crafts session, saw everyone create beautiful button trees. This colourful activity provided a fantastic way for everyone to unleash their creativity, working together to arrange an assortment of brightly coloured buttons to form unique tree designs.
Another highlight was the introduction of the ‘scent-sational’ guessing game, a sensory memory game that delighted everyone who participated. Designed to engage both the senses and memory, the game featured a range of fragrant scents—each matched with a specific image on a memory board.
The game not only offered a fun, interactive way to stimulate sensory responses but also helped participation strengthen their memory and cognitive recall.
Manager Alison Yarnley said: “We were thrilled to see everyone so engaged, laughing, and sharing memories. It’s lovely to witness how these activities bring everyone closer, creating an atmosphere of joy, nostalgia, and friendship.”
With the success of this sensory day, Fairways Care Home is looking forward to organising more creative and memory-boosting activities, encouraging participants to enjoy and explore the benefits of interactive, sensory-focused activities in a lively and supportive community environment.