Activities at Elm Bank Care Home

The residents and staff at the home were treated to a truly magical experience when Northeast Producers Ltd who brought their enchanting outdoor theatre performance to the home’s beautiful garden. The show ‘Memories are Made of This’ was held on a glorious sunny day, which offered a captivating blend of music, storytelling and dance.

For many of the residents, the performance was a poignant reminder of days gone by. As the residents watched the performance, they were transported back to a time when they, too, would have visited the theatre. The experience stirred up treasured memories of grand auditoriums’, the hush of the crowd before the curtain rose, and the shared joy of a live performance.

Tina, the activities co-ordinator said, “It was truly amazing to see the residents so engaged and happy. It was a real chance for our lovely residents to relive the memories of attending the theatre back in the day, and experience those cherished moments again. It also created the opportunity for some to experience a live theatre performance for the first time on a lovely warm summer’s afternoon. Also it was not just a performance; it was a deeply meaningful connection to the past, reminding many of the timeless joy the live theatre can bring.”

Elm Bank recently celebrated International Beer Day in Style, the day itself is celebrated on the 1^st of August each year. Our communal lounge was transformed in to a lively pub for a day of fun, community and fantastic beverages. Residents and staff all came together to enjoy a traditional pub quiz and carefully selected assortment of beers, proving that a good time knows no age.

The atmosphere was electric as our residents eagerly participated in the traditional pub quiz, their faces lighting up with each correct answer. The real star of the show was the beer itself, from classic ales to refreshing lagers, there was a drink to suit every taste. The home created a lovely tipple trolley that was taken around the homes community allowing for all in their rooms to enjoy a lovely beverage to celebrate the day itself so that no one missed out. The event was a testament to the homes commitment in enriching the lives of its residents by bringing the vibrant, social atmosphere of a pub indoors.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “It is really important that the home celebrates these unique themed events as it highlights the importance of such events in a care setting. Residents are able to get a break from normal routine and a chance to socialise, it is a reminder that life is full of small wonderful pleasures. Our residents had a great afternoon it was a resounding success, not just were empty glasses left behind, but also hearts also full of lasting memories, Cheers to that!.”

Staff and residents at Elm Bank were recently treated to a sensational afternoon of song and trombone magic, thanks to the incredible talents of Matts Miller Magic. With his trombone in hand, Matts Miller Magic created an amazing atmosphere that had everyone tapping their feet and singing along.

The joyful and memorable tunes from the past filled the room, transporting many residents back in time. The sound of the trombone, with its deep, resonant tones, sparked fond memories and encouraged spontaneous conversations. Staff noted how the music created a truly special and heart-warming environment, with residents sharing stories and reminiscing about their own musical memories. It was the first time that Elm Bank care home hosted a trombone player at the home and it went down very well as it was combined with song.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “It was absolutely wonderful to see the residents so engaged and happy, Matts Miller Magic really bought a sense of joy and nostalgia to the room. You could really see the memories coming back to the residents with every tune and song. The performance was a delightful reminder of the power of music and how it helps connect people and uplift spirits.”

Elm Bank was recently filled with the sounds of music, laughter and conversation as it hosted a very special event: the Elm Bank Community Dementia Café. The air was buzzing with warmth and positive energy, a testament to the power of community and music in enriching lives.

The highlight of the afternoon was a captivating performance by the Ukulele band, Happy Together. Their cheerful melodies and heartfelt songs had everyone tapping their feet and singing along, creating an atmosphere of shared joy. For many, the familiar tunes sparked memories and brought smiles to faces, proving once again the incredible therapeutic value of music for people living with dementia.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “The café is a warm welcoming place for individuals living with dementia and their families to connect with others facing similar experiences. This shared understanding can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, fostering a sense of belonging. The music from Happy Together served as a form of therapy, engaging with familiar songs can help stimulate memory and promote emotional well-being. The café also offers a much needed break to the caregivers as caring for a loved one with dementia can be very demanding”.

The residents stepped back in time with a delightful afternoon at the Blitz Tea Room and Jazz Lounge in Kettering.

The sun was out and that called for an afternoon filled with nostalgia and joy, as residents visited the Blitz Tea Rooms and Jazz Lounge in Kettering. The much anticipated trip provided a wonderful change of scenery and a chance to step back in time. Upon arrival the residents were met with the warmest of welcomes from the friendly staff, who went above and beyond to ensure everyone was comfortable, the unique and magical surroundings and the décor which was reminiscent of the bygone era sparked conversations and shared memories among the residents, creating a truly immersive experience.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “This tea room really is a magical little gem, the culinary offerings are impressive as the ambience and we all savoured the delicious cakes, each bite a testament to the tea rooms quality. Outings like these are vital for well-being and engagement, providing an opportunity to socially interact and to hear the wonderful stories from the days of the ration books from our residents was amazing.”

Marvellous Bindura, General Manager said, “It is lovely to see our residents enjoying being out in the local community, The Blitz Tea Room and Jazz Lounge, is somewhere that our residents have truly enjoyed. Outings like these are a testament to Elm Bank’s commitment to provide rich and fulfilling lives to our residents.”  

The residents and staff enjoyed a truly unique and enriching afternoon recently, as they welcomed local beekeeper, Mark for a fascinating and educational talk on the wonderful world of bees.

Mark who arrived with an array of intriguing props, captivated the residents and staff with his personal journey in to beekeeping, explaining how he first started out in to the business and the dedication involved in to looking after his buzzing bees. Mark who is from Desborough covered various aspects of beekeeping from the intricate social structure of a bee colony to the vital role bees play in our ecosystem. The residents were enthralled as Mark described the process of honey production, the different types of bees within a hive, and the challenges and rewards of his profession. His passion for bees was infectious, sparking a lively questions and conversations among the attendees.

The spirit of summer truly blossomed for the residents, their families and staff recently, as they gathered for their highly anticipated Summer Fete.

Under clear, exceptionally warm skies, the homes beautiful gardens were transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, filled with laughter, lively chatter, and the sweet sound of music. The afternoon was a resounding success, bathed in glorious sunshine that perfectly complemented the sense of community and happiness. There were a variety of delightful stalls, offering an array of beautiful items that were thoughtfully arranged within the charming garden setting. The days overarching theme was undeniably one of pure joy and relaxation, it was a day dedicated to laughter, shared moments, and the simple pleasure of coming together.

Residents from the Blossom Community who are living with dementia recently enjoyed a delightful celebration of National Ice Cream Day, transforming the occasion into a vibrant and delicious event! Bringing smiles and a sprinkle of joy, residents, with the help of the dedicated Activities team, created their own magnificent ice cream sundaes.

The air was filled with laughter and happy chatter as the residents carefully selected their preferred scoops of ice cream. The real fun then began with the toppings, where imaginations ran wild! From colourful sprinkles and sweet sauces to fresh fruit and strawberries were a top choice, each sundae was a masterpiece, reflecting individuals tastes and preferences.

Activities Co-ordinator, Tina, said: “The activity really offered our residents who are living with dementia numerous benefits, social interaction, encouraging conversations and shared moments of fun. The simple act of choosing flavours and toppings also offered a gentle form of cognitive stimulation and it really promoted a sense of independence and choice. For many, it also brought back fond memories of childhood and simpler times, sparking heart-warming discussions and reminiscence”.

The residents and staff participated the nationwide recognition of ‘Carers Week', which is celebrated every year in June.

Carers Week is a vital initiative that shines a light on all the unseen efforts of carers around the UK. Elm Bank care home celebrated a powerful reminder to not only support their carers but also foster an environment where their dedication is continually celebrated. The celebrations during Carers Week served as a heartfelt tribute to the amazing individuals who dedicate their lives caring for others. To mark the occasion, staff received lovely boxes of chocolates as a token of profound gratitude for the tireless work and compassionate care that they provide to residents every single day.

Marvellous Bindura, General Manager said, “Our carers are the backbone of Elm Bank care home, their dedication goes far beyond their duties. They not only provide physical care they provide emotional support and create a sense of family for all our residents here”.

The Air in the home was filled recently with an extra special energy as residents and staff were captivated by Gavin and his musical performance.

Gavin whose stage name is Gav…lalala, performed a repertoire of music that spanned the golden era, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Gavin’s visit underscored the profound and undeniable power of music for those living within a care home setting. The whole lounge was filled with familiar melodies that transformed the atmosphere in to what was truly a vibrant concert. Live music in care homes really offers a wealth of therapeutic benefits. It stimulates cognitive function and certainly helps to reduce anxiety whilst allowing for social interactions, helping residents to not feel loneliness and isolation.

The residents and staff were delighted in welcoming Stone Lodge Therapeutic School in joining them to celebrate ‘Sausage Roll Day’.

Residents donned their aprons, and dusted their hands with flour as they enthusiastically participated in celebrating ‘Sausage Roll Day’ with help and support from Stone Lodge Therapeutic School pupils and teachers. Pastry was rolled out and everyone expertly shaped their meaty fillings, each step was a collaborative effort, sparking memories and lively conversation.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “The benefits of such activities extend far beyond the delicious end result. It creates stimulation of cognitive function within the mind, especially when doing structured tasks such as baking. It allows for sensory experiences, with feeling the dough, meat and also the smell of the ingredients, and residents enjoy the sight of their creations at the end which provides so much benefit for those residents living with dementia.”

Marvellous Bindura, General Manager at Elm Bank said: “It is lovely to see everyone together, it was lovely to have Stone Lodge Therapeutic School join us for the afternoon. These activities are vital, providing a sense of purpose, and encouraging social interaction. Also who doesn’t love a warm sausage roll, fresh from the oven!”

The residents and staff were treated to a truly unique and glamorous experience as they hosted their very own London Fashion Week pop-up shop.

Residents welcomed Anne and Julie from ‘Count down Cares’, who have been bringing fashion to care homes and surrounding communities for over 12 years. Anne and Julie’s passion for style and their devoted commitment to reaching diverse communities shone through as they transformed a section of Elm Bank in to a treasure trove of delightful clothes.

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “The residents had a truly wonderful time browsing through the racks of colourful clothes, all within the comfort of their homes surroundings. It was lovely to see residents discussing colours, patterns and reminiscing about their own fashion choices throughout their lives. It was not just about the clothes, it was about the joy and the fun residents had, the chance for them to indulge in some personal pampering and self-expression. I think that it is important to say that even within the confines of a care home life can be lived with flair and fashion.”

Marvellous Bindura, General Manager at Elm Bank said: “It is lovely to see everyone together, and celebrating London Fashion Week was important here at the home, and to have Anne and Julie bring the whole shopping experience to Elm Bank was brilliant.”

The residents and staff were delighted in attending the local St Thomas More Catholic Primary School to celebrate a beautiful Pentecost Service held in the school hall.

It was a warmly embraced service by the residents, as they returned to the school hall for the afternoon. Pentecost, meaning "fiftieth" in Greek, is a Christian holy day that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as described in the Book of Acts. It is celebrated 50 days after Easter and marks the birth of the Church and the beginning of its mission. It was wonderful to see the children who had worked so hard in creating what was a lovely service.

Resident Beryl said, "It was a beautiful service, the singing was lovely, and my daughter was once a teacher at the school, I was once a teacher many years ago now."

Tina, Activities Co-ordinator said, “It was lovely that the local school opened their doors to us to let us enjoy the service with them. It means so much to the residents, it allows for the young and the old to mix and the wonderful experiences are shared.  The residents were very engaged, singing to the songs and full of smiles throughout. Days like these are very important to our residents and as well as the religious meaning of the afternoon, it is also important to have intergenerational activities. It is crucial to create links with our local schools and within the community to continue for our residents to remain a part of the community.”

What an amazing afternoon of music with singer Devon and her puppet Bella, who delighted the residents on the dementia community.

We all know the impact music can have on a person’s mental wellbeing, the residents at Elm Bank, are always keen to have fun with musical entertainers in. An afternoon of pure joy was had by all on the Dementia community, as Devon with her puppet Bella sang and engaged with all. Each song got everyone testing out their singing and their feet moving to old classics and new surprises. It was just simply amazing to see how music lifted the spirits of the residents and created joy for all that allowed for all residents to reminisce on memories past.

Devon said, “It was great to come and sing for everyone, the residents really got engaged and it was just lovely to hear them sing and watch them dance. Bella my puppet certainly worked her magic on everyone, just a fun packed afternoon. I cannot wait to come to come back again.”

Marvellous Bindura, General Manager said, "Music is so important to many of our residents and helps are residents in many ways, it is lovely to see the residents engaged and joining in with songs and dancing, the puppet was a delight”.  

The residents and staff are always delighted in attending the local ‘Dementia Sings Out’ group. The group is held every Thursday at the Compass Church in Wellingborough and the residents have been attending the group for almost a year.

The group is a community choir that meets every week for those living with dementia, and for their carers, to sing songs that are not only uplifting but also inspirational. It is lovely for the residents and staff of the home to enjoy the music and songs from Gareth Fuller, who certainly has all up on their feet dancing and singing. As always the morning is enjoyable for all that attend, for people to simply let their hair down and immerse themselves in the wonderful group that make them feel so welcome. The volunteers at the group certainly make the morning extra special, Elm Banks residents and staff will definitely be returning weekly for more fun.

Tina, Activities Coordinator said, “We have been coming to this truly amazing venue for a year now and every time we have attended we can really see what a difference it makes to our residents. It is such a warm and welcoming place and with the volunteers who are full of smiles and ready to help, I can honestly say that our residents really enjoy attending, and so do we!.”

Marvellous Bindura, General Manager said, “It is lovely to see our residents and staff enjoying another morning with ‘Dementia sings Out’, the enrichment this group creates in the lives of all living with dementia is recognisable. It is very important to have links with local groups, it not only allows for good community relationship, but also the impact these groups have on residents here at the home is truly amazing”.