A touch of gentleness: wellbeing and companionship at Mountside

A little time, a gentle hand massage and a friendly conversation can make a day feel special. At Mountside Care Home  we were delighted to welcome the ladies from A Touch of Gentleness, who spent time with our residents and brought comfort, care and smiles throughout their visit.

The hand massages were a lovely treat, offering residents an opportunity to enjoy some individual attention in a relaxed setting. Just as meaningful was the company: someone taking time to sit alongside them, listen and share a conversation. It was a thoughtful reminder of how much warmth a simple act of kindness can bring.

Making time for moments that matter

Daily life is made up of small experiences that shape how we feel. A welcoming smile, an unhurried chat or a pleasant activity can all help someone feel noticed and appreciated.

The A Touch of Gentleness visit brought these elements together. The ladies offered their time and attention, creating opportunities for connection as residents enjoyed their hand massages. We are grateful for the kindness they shared and the care they took in spending time with people in our home.

Visits like this help us celebrate wellbeing in a personal way. They offer something enjoyable in the moment, with space for residents to engage at their own pace and in a way that feels comfortable to them.

Wellbeing includes feeling connected

At Mountside, wellbeing is an important part of our approach to daily care. Alongside practical support, we recognise the value of companionship, enjoyment and a sense of belonging.

Having people nearby who take an interest can make everyday life feel more reassuring. Conversation offers opportunities to share experiences, express preferences and be heard. Sometimes, the most valuable thing we can offer is our attention.

The visit from A Touch of Gentleness reflected this beautifully. Hand massages provided the occasion, while the time spent together created opportunities for social connection. Residents could enjoy a friendly exchange and a gentle treat, with their individuality at the centre of the experience.

A community with room for different personalities

A vibrant care home community should make room for different interests and ways of spending time. Some people enjoy lively gatherings and shared activities. Others prefer quieter company or a conversation with one person.

At Mountside, our activities and social opportunities are designed to help residents find enjoyment in everyday life. Music, creative pastimes, movement and visits can all provide occasions to come together, while individual attention remains equally valuable.

What matters is choice. Being part of a community should include the freedom to participate, watch, rest or enjoy something different. Understanding these preferences helps us offer a lifestyle that feels welcoming and personal, rather than expecting everyone to enjoy the same things.

Compassionate care in Hastings

Mountside is an ACI Care home providing residential, dementia and respite care in Hastings. Our peaceful residential setting offers a place where residents can receive support while enjoying companionship and opportunities to pursue their interests.

We take time to understand each person’s needs, routines and preferences. This helps shape personalised care and the everyday experiences that accompany it. A favourite pastime, a familiar routine or the way someone likes to begin their morning can all be important.

Our team brings care and kindness to these daily interactions. The aim is to help residents feel comfortable and respected, with support that recognises who they are and what matters to them.

Residential care with a personal touch

Our residential care supports people who need assistance with daily living in a homely environment. Help with personal care and other everyday needs is offered alongside encouragement to remain as independent as possible.

Receiving support should still leave room for individual choices. We work with residents and their families to understand the assistance required and the preferences that help make each day feel familiar.

Companionship is part of this experience. Knowing there is someone to speak to, ask for help or share a moment with brings a human connection to daily care. The warmth shown during our recent visit reflects the thoughtful approach we value throughout life at Mountside.

Dementia care centred on the individual

For people living with dementia, support needs to recognise the individual behind the diagnosis. Personal interests, relationships and life experiences remain important, even when memory or communication changes.

Our dementia care offers tailored support with dignity and comfort at its heart. Taking time, listening carefully and approaching interactions with patience helps the team respond to each person’s needs.

Enjoyable experiences can take many forms, and preferences should always guide what is offered. Someone may welcome a familiar song, a quiet conversation or simply having company nearby. Families can help us understand these preferences, sharing knowledge of their loved one’s routines and the things that bring them reassurance.

Respite care and a welcoming introduction

Our respite care provides support for shorter stays. It may be helpful when someone needs extra assistance following illness or when a family carer needs a break from their caring responsibilities.

A temporary stay should feel welcoming and personal. Getting to know a guest’s needs and routines helps us provide appropriate care, while opportunities for company and activities offer an introduction to our community.

Families are welcome to discuss their circumstances with the team, including the support required and whether Mountside can meet those needs. We understand that arranging care is a significant decision, and a conversation can help people explore their options.

Thank you for bringing comfort and smiles

Our heartfelt thanks go to the ladies from A Touch of Gentleness for sharing their time and thoughtful kindness with our residents. Their visit celebrated the value of individual attention and the connections that make everyday experiences meaningful.

If you are exploring residential, dementia or respite care in Hastings, contact Mountside to discuss your needs and arrange a visit. We would be delighted to show you our home and introduce you to our community.