Residents and team members at Kiwi House Care Home recently participated in a vibrant and heart-warming competition to reimagine and redecorate their outdoor terraces. The initiative aimed to enhance the outdoor spaces and make them more enjoyable and usable for everyone.
The competition saw two floors taking on different themes. The middle floor was tasked with creating an English country garden, while the second floor embraced a seaside theme. Residents and staff worked together, bringing creativity and enthusiasm to the project, and the results have been nothing short of spectacular.
Ken, one of the residents, expressed his delight, saying, “I don’t need to go anywhere else. The seaside is here.” His joy was shared by Barbara, who reminisced, “This brings back memories of my husband and me at the lighthouse restaurant on holiday.”
Ann also shared her excitement, stating, “It’s all so wonderful,” while Brenda appreciated the effort, saying, “It’s beautiful, so much hard work has gone into it.” Janet added, “It reminds me of our caravan at Lowestoft,” reflecting on cherished memories.
Karen Middleton, Adept Care Homes Dementia Manager, highlighted the significance of such activities, particularly for residents living with dementia. “Engaging in creative and themed projects like this gives our residents a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It stimulates their minds and evokes positive memories, which is incredibly beneficial for their emotional well-being. The familiar themes can also help ground them in a comforting reality, reducing feelings of confusion and anxiety.”
The newly themed terraces have not only provided a refreshing change of scenery but also sparked joy and nostalgia among the residents. The English country garden and seaside-themed terrace have transformed the outdoor spaces into areas of beauty and tranquility, perfect for relaxation and reminiscing.
The competition was judged by Kenny Nelson, the Managing Director of Adept Care Homes, who was thoroughly impressed by the creativity and effort put into each terrace. While the judging took place, residents enjoyed a delightful, themed lunch on each terrace. The seaside-themed terrace was adorned with traditional fish and chips, evoking the charm of a classic British seaside experience, while the English country garden terrace was complemented by an elegant afternoon high tea, complete with scones and finger sandwiches. This combination of creative decor and themed dining made the day even more special and memorable for everyone involved.
“The creativity and dedication of our residents and team have truly shone through in this competition,” said Jeanette Heath, Home Manager at Kiwi House. “The terraces are now vibrant, beautiful spaces that everyone can enjoy, and it’s wonderful to see the happiness they bring.”
Kiwi House Care Home remains committed to nurturing an engaging environment for its residents, continuously seeking ways to enhance their quality of life through creative and communal activities.