Whittington House Residents Get Out And About In The Local Community
With spring very much in the air, residents at Whittington House Care Home in Cheltenham are increasingly happy to leave their cosy chairs and step out into a world of fresh leaves, bright flowers and uplifting sunshine.
Activities coordinator, Danni, hosts a regular weekly outing which has an added incentive to join - coffee and cake! Danni tries to encourage different people to come along each week so that everyone enjoys the chance to get out and about, with one resident, Laura, a confirmed regular as the outings have such a positive impact on her wellbeing.
A Springtime Walk with an Added Incentive
Before sitting down for a well-deserved treat, the group takes a walk, which is just as important as the end destination. There’s always a pause at the local park to take a breath and enjoy being in the natural world, which is looking pretty now the daffodils have come through.
Even going for a short local walk is important for residents – not only for the pleasure of being outside and having a change of scenery, but also to help them feel part of the local community. The outings also help team members connect with residents in a different environment, and once they arrive at the coffee shop – Cafecito in Benhall – there’s a lovely sociable atmosphere that lifts the whole group.
Fabulous cakes, brownies, doughnuts and posh coffees make the occasion feel special. And the residents love it. Danni said “The smiles that we see on the faces of the residents when we are out are just amazing. It is so good to see the residents in the community and seeing how the community, especially Cafecito, have welcomed us, and make us feel so welcome every time we visit.” Residents Laura and Jenny agreed that it was great to see the flowers, that they always enjoy going to the café which they think is lovely, and that they can’t wait to return next time.
Local Cheltenham Festival Provides Extra Motivation
Meanwhile, some of the gents at Whittington House requested a different type of outing in March – a trip to the local pub to watch racing from Cheltenham with a nice pint. Given that the racecourse itself is so close by, the atmosphere during Cheltenham Festival week is always special and its regular spot in the racing calendar, just before St Patrick's Day, makes it the perfect event to be celebrated! Viewing the action from a comfy chair in a cosy pub, enjoying glass of something refreshing, was a treat. Bernard, one of the residents who went along said: “It’s great to get out into the community, to still be involved in the community, and experience things outside of the home. I am lucky that I can still get out and about and I try and make the most of this.”
Whether it’s coffee, cake and a natter or a pint and essential sports viewing, getting out and interacting with the community in different ways is important on many levels – and the team at Whittington House will never be short of ideas or the enthusiasm to make things happen!
Discover Whittington House Care Home in Cheltenham
Whittington House Care Home is a modern, purpose-built home which provides residential, nursing and specialist dementia care. Every floor feels close to nature and the home offers numerous activities, plenty of space and tranquil surroundings where you can relax or welcome friends and family.
If you would like to learn more about the types of care and services available from Caring Homes, or if you have any questions or would like to learn more, please get in touch with your nearest care home.
