Guysfield visit the Lavender Fields

The residents of Guysfield Care Home in Letchworth really enjoyed a trip to Lavender fields in Hitchin this week.Nine residents were accompanied by two activity coordinators and one care assistant,we were also joined by one of the resident's daughters as a volunteer for the day.The residents were really excited on the day, enjoying the journey in the minibus. There was much chatter and laughter between the residents about the journey and the sights on the way, looking forward to the Lavender fields.On arrival the residents were given bags and scissors to cut and collect the lavender. They were very excited to see the rows of lavender in bloom and smell the wonderful perfume, it was a real sensory experience.They walked around slowly, cutting lavender as they went and packing it in their bags to take back home. When they finished they enjoyed a wonderful picnic lunch, packed by the chef. After a lovely rest and chatter they made their way slowly back to the minibus to come home.On returning home they were still full of enthusiasm about their trip out and shared all their experiences with fellow residents who didn't want to go.One resident commented: " It was a wonderful outing and I loved it ". She was far less nervous and agitated when she returned, her son also visited later that day and commented on how happy she was.Outings for the residents, especially those with dementia, are very beneficial to body and mind. New scenery and also the exercise, both help the residents keep an active social life which is key to helping someone with dementia feel happy and motivated.Everyone needs a sense of purpose and to enjoy themselves during the day. Encouraging someone with dementia to do something creative, some gentle exercise, or take part in an activity helps them to realise their potential, which improves their self-esteem and reduces loneliness.Our Activity Coordinators at Guysfield have planned more trips in the near future.[gallery size="medium" link="file" ids="15105,15095,15104,15102,15094,15099,15108"][gallery columns="6" link="file" size="medium" ids="15106,15107,15103,15101,15100,15097"]Guysfield provides residential care in a beautifully converted Country House for up to 49 elderly people in the conservation village of Willian.If you would like to find out more about life at Guysfield and the care we offer, or to request a meeting with our Home Manager, please contact us on 0808 223 5509 or [email protected]