Celebrating World Chocolate Day
Fairways Care Home celebrates World Chocolate Day with sweet indulgence
Fairways Care Home recently celebrated World Chocolate Day in style, creating a delightful experience that was truly a treat for all. The day was filled with smiles, laughter, and, of course, an array of irresistible chocolate treats.
The celebration included a chocolate-tasting session featuring a variety of flavours, from rich dark chocolate to creamy milk and exotic blends with hints of orange, mint, and even chili! Each bite offered a moment of pure bliss, sparking joy and conversation as everyone shared their favourites.
In addition to the tasting experience, the home embraced the theme with chocolate-inspired activities. Residents enjoyed a fun chocolate quiz, shared memories of their favourite chocolate-related moments, and of course took part in a very hands-on tasting session of their preferred chocolate treats.
"World Chocolate Day was the perfect excuse for us to indulge in something everyone loves," said Alison, Manager at Fairways Care Home. "It was wonderful to see everyone enjoying the delicious flavours creating such a warm, happy atmosphere."
The event was part of the care home’s ongoing commitment to provide engaging activities that bring joy and enhance the quality of life for its residents. Moments like these remind everyone that a little chocolate truly goes a long way in creating happiness.
Intergenerational Music Group Debut
Mountside Care Home unites through intergenerational music group
Mountside Care Home recently came alive with the joyful sound of music as it hosted its first-ever intergenerational music group, a collaboration with the Firs Children’s Nursery.
The session brought together the care home, children and parents to share smiles, melodies, and laughter in a truly special gathering as generations blended seamlessly through music.
From timeless nursery rhymes to classics that brought back cherished memories for the residents, the playlist had something for everyone.
"The joy on the faces of both the children and our residents was simply magical," said Kimberley, Activities Coordinator at Mountside Care Home. "Seeing them connect through music and laughter was a reminder of the power of community and togetherness."
For many, the presence of the little ones was a breath of fresh air, rekindling fond memories of family and childhood. For the children, it was an opportunity to bring happiness to their new friends while learning the importance of socialising with elders.
Parents from the nursery and families of the residents praised the initiative as a meaningful way to foster bonds between generations, highlighting how the music group provided emotional enrichment for everyone involved.
Mountside Care Home and the Firs Children’s Nursery are planning to make the intergenerational music group a regular feature, promising even more shared smiles, melodies, and unforgettable moments in the future.
This partnership marks the beginning of a vibrant community initiative that celebrates the joy of connection, proving that when generations unite, the harmony is truly inspiring.
All Trimmed up for Christmas
The Old Rectory Care Home gears up for a Magical Christmas celebration. The festive spirit is in full swing at The Old Rectory Care Home, where everyone eagerly trimmed up the Christmas trees preparing for the season of warmth, laughter, and cherished moments ahead.
With Christmas just around the corner, the home is a hive of activity, brimming with cheer and anticipation. And now with the tinsel and twinkling lights fully on display the festive spirit has arrived with further festive plans a-foot to ensure Christmas is truly special.
Residents have been getting involved too, lending their creativity to festive crafts, card-making, and even helping with the finishing touches on the decorations.
The holiday season at The Old Rectory promises a packed schedule of joyful activities, including a Christmas carol sing-along, a festive movie night complete with hot cocoa, and a much-anticipated visit from Santa. The home’s talented kitchen team is also hard at work, preparing a mouthwatering Christmas feast that will delight residents and staff alike.
Cheryl, Manager at the Old Rectory Care Home said: “We believe Christmas is a time to create magical memories. Our goal is to bring everyone together and celebrate the joy of the season, spreading warmth and happiness throughout.”
The Old Rectory Care Home will be sharing updates and highlights throughout the season, capturing all the laughter and special moments that make this time of year so meaningful. Stay tuned for more as The Old Rectory counts down to Christmas.
Gabriel Court Shines with Praise
Gabriel Court Care Home is celebrating the warm and glowing feedback it recently received from a satisfied visitor, highlighting the exceptional care, sense of community, and dedicated team that make the home truly special.
The testimonial reflects the heart of Gabriel Court’s mission to provide not just care, but a nurturing environment filled with kindness and joy: "Really good home. The warmth and feel is great. Love the activities and the staff are just so lovely. The strength of the home is in its people, very caring, diverse and kind-hearted. I can't thank you any more for everything that you do."
This kind message has touched the hearts of everyone at Gabriel Court, underscoring the impact of their daily efforts to create a supportive and vibrant community for residents.
"We are beyond grateful for such heartfelt feedback," said Gabriel Court Care Home. "Our team works tirelessly to ensure every resident feels valued and cared for, and it’s wonderful to see those efforts recognised."
The care home prides itself on fostering a sense of belonging, with activities that bring joy and engagement to residents while celebrating the individuality of each person. From creative workshops and fitness sessions to themed events, every day at Gabriel Court is designed to be meaningful.
This glowing review not only serves as a testament to the care home’s excellence but also motivates the team to continue making every day special, ensuring that every individual feels loved, supported, and at home.
Mountside Care Home Celebrates VE Day with Pride
Mountside Care Home was filled with pride and gratitude as everyone came together to celebrate VE Day and honour the brave heroes of the past on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
The day was a heartfelt blend of remembrance and celebration, marking a significant moment in history and paying tribute to those who fought for our freedom. The event was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II, and the stories of bravery and resilience resonated deeply with everyone in attendance.
Throughout the day, a variety of activities were designed to commemorate the occasion. The care home was adorned with patriotic decorations, and a special ceremony was held to honour the veterans among the residents.
Mountside Care Home Activities Coordinator, Kimberley expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event. "Today, we not only celebrate victory but also the enduring spirit and the heroes who have shaped our history and define our greatest generation."
Fairways Care Home Spreads Love and Hope
Fairways Care Home recently embarked on a heartwarming project that brought the care community together in a beautiful display of unity and creativity.
During a special arts and crafts session, everyone collaborated to create a stunning floral arrangement spelling out the words 'LOVE' and 'HOPE.' These vibrant displays now adorn the home, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit and positivity within the Fairways community.
The initiative was part of Fairways Care Home’s ongoing efforts to foster a sense of connection and well-being among its residents. The arts and crafts session provided a joyful and therapeutic experience, allowing participants to express themselves creatively while working towards a common goal.
Each flower used in the display was carefully crafted and placed, resulting in a visually striking and emotionally uplifting artwork.
Fairways Care Home Manager, Connie shared her enthusiasm for the project. “Seeing our residents come together to create something so meaningful has been truly inspiring. This project has brought smiles, sparked conversations, and reinforced the supportive environment we strive to maintain here at Fairways."
The floral display, has become a focal point, it serves as a daily reminder of the importance of love and hope, particularly in times of challenge and uncertainty. The vibrant colours and intricate designs of the flowers evoke feelings of warmth and joy, brightening the atmosphere and lifting spirits.
These activities not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also promote mental and emotional well-being. The home remains committed to creating an environment where residents feel valued, supported, and inspired.
Care Home's Unique Armchair Netball
The Old Rectory Care Home has recently introduced an innovative and exciting exercise routine that is taking the community by storm. Who says you need a court to play netball?
Our armchair and mobility-friendly version may not involve running or jumping, but it still gets our hearts pumping and brings immense joy to our residents! This unique take on netball has been designed to be inclusive for all residents, regardless of their mobility levels.
The adapted version allows participants to remain seated in armchairs while engaging in the game, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and reap the benefits of physical activity. The sessions have become a highlight of the week, combining exercise with camaraderie and plenty of laughter.
The Old Rectory Care Home Manager, Cheryl, shared her enthusiasm for the new routine. "We are always looking for creative ways to keep our residents active and engaged. Our armchair netball sessions have been a fantastic addition to our activities programme. It's wonderful to see our residents enjoying themselves and staying fit in a way that suits their abilities."
The gentle movements and interactive nature of the game provide a safe yet stimulating workout, helping to maintain physical fitness and mental sharpness. The sessions also foster a sense of achievement and teamwork, as residents cheer each other on and celebrate their successes together.
As The Old Rectory Care Home continues to explore innovative ways to enhance the well-being of its residents, the success of the armchair netball routine stands as a shining example of their commitment to providing a vibrant and engaging environment.
Gabriel Court Showcase Green Thumbs
Gabriel Court Care Home has been abuzz with activity and excitement as everyone came together for an inspiring indoor gardening project.
Embracing their love for gardening, residents Nihal and Doreen have led the charge, tirelessly potting new plants grown from seeds to enhance the beauty of their garden. Their dedication, along with the enthusiastic support of other people, promises a stunning garden in full bloom this summer.
Gabriel Court Care Home Activities Coordinator Gemma expressed her pride in their achievements. "At Gabriel Court, we believe in nurturing hobbies and interests that bring joy and fulfilment. Gardening is a cherished activity here, and seeing Nihal, Doreen, and others work together on this project has been truly heartwarming. Their hard work and dedication are evident in the flourishing plants that will soon be in our garden."
The project has encouraged physical activity, social interaction, and a sense of purpose among the participants. Engaging with nature, even in an indoor setting, has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. The indoor gardening project stands as a testament to the vibrant, active, and caring environment that Gabriel Court Care Home strives to provide.
Sussex World Features Museum Visit
Sussex World newspaper and website for the local area recently featured new of Mountside Care Home visiting Hstings Museum and you can read it here:
Mountside Care Home Residents Visit Hastings Museum to Explore Local History
"We are thrilled to have been able to take our residents to Hastings Museum," said Kimberley, Activities Coordinator at Mountside Care Home. "It’s such a great place to visit, with so much to offer. Our residents particularly enjoyed learning about the pier and viewing the beautiful watercolours. It was a truly memorable experience for everyone."
One highlight of the visit was the section dedicated to the history of Hastings Pier. Learning about its construction, its role in the local community over the years, and its remarkable resilience and restoration efforts following a devastating fire. This historical insight was complemented by the visual feast of watercolour paintings depicting the serene and picturesque landscapes of Sussex, which resonated deeply with many of the residents.
Mountside Care Home is committed to providing opportunities to participate in activities that enrich their lives and foster a sense of connection with the local community. The visit to Hastings Museum is just one example of how the care home supports intellectual and emotional well-being through diverse and engaging experiences.
Read it here on Sussex World
Care group pays homage to James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke with ‘CarePool Karaoke’ series
‘CarePool Karaoke’, a take on James Corden’s famous ‘Carpool Karaoke’ from The Late Late Show, provides staff and residents with an opportunity to talk, open up and sing together.
ACI Care, a group of care homes which specialise in residential, respite and dementia care, has launched its three-part ‘CarePool Karaoke’ series to coincide with the start of Mental Health Awareness Week (15-21 May) – an annual initiative that encourages open conversations and aims to reduce the stigma around mental health problems.
The first two episodes will feature carers Dale and Gemma, singing and discussing their careers and what they love about care. The third episode will be a joint effort by Nora (72) and Mavis (82), two residents from Gabriel Court, an ACI run care home in Kettering.
Speaking about the series, Ravi Sodha, director of ACI Care, said: “We understand the importance of good mental health, especially in the care industry, where the demands can be high for staff and feelings of isolation and loneliness can present themselves amongst residents. ‘CarePool Karaoke’ provided an opportunity for our staff and residents to have some fun and connect with each other outside of the typical care setting, whilst also bringing attention to Mental Health Awareness Week.”
The idea for CarePool Karaoke came from the understanding that singing is known to have numerous physical and mental health benefits for all ages, in particular for older generations. Singing has been shown to reduce stress, improve breathing and posture, enhance mood and wellbeing, while singing also requires the brain to process music, lyrics, and rhythm, which can enhance cognitive function and improve memory – an important part of healthy ageing.
Alongside the singing itself, the conversations between carers and residents provides the opportunity to open up and chat about a range of topics – enabling them to learn new things about each other and bond.
With the initial response to ‘CarePool Karaoke’ having been overwhelmingly positive, ACI Care now plans to follow up with ‘Care Couch Karaoke’, a similar initiative but one that can be filmed from the comfort of the home. Staff will film the sessions themselves, providing even more opportunities for staff and residents to connect and cooperate with one another, while offering all the benefits of a good sing-along.
Ravi Sodha concluded: “Dale, Gemma, Nora and Mavis all had a wonderful time as part of CarePool karaoke, and we’ll be looking to take this sentiment forward as we keep encouraging residents and carers alike to open up – and enjoy a good singsong of course – through our couch-based version.”
View an overview video on the original article: