Activities at Fountains Care Home

On memory lane we have been exploring art and music therapy.  We sat together and created floral art work using dried flowers and the residents smelled the flowers, talked about the colours and textures of each individual flower they placed on the canvas.

This led to conversation about what our favourite flowers are and the flowers we are looking forward to seeing in the spring. One resident said "I love sunflowers they are so big"

Shortly after this in the afternoon we watched a live singer on Oomph which they always enjoy. We sang along to the songs they knew from their past and added some musical instruments so we could join in together and create our our sounds.

News year eve was a huge success here at Fountains. The residents enjoyed a celebration afternoon complete with a selection of wines, beers and soft drinks. The snacks were delicious and enjoyed by all, while the residents all joined in with a sing song on the karaoke microphone. We each had some fun party props to add some glamour and fun to the occasion. Then we all watched a beautiful fireworks display in Australia which filled everyone delight and happiness.

The residents have been trying a new activity which goes alongside the Namaste trolley. We have been trying out some meditation and calm sessions. The residents all gather in the lounge and we follow guided mediation on Oomph on demand. The residents each have a scented object so it provides and extra sense of calm and relaxation. Then after the residents enjoy some pampering and can enjoy foot spas or having their nails done.

We will now be creating our own floral displays weekly here at Fountains. So each week on various days the residents will be given the chance to help create beautiful floral arrangements.

This brought back memories for one resident who used to create flowers for her local church and table decorations for weddings. She showed the other residents how to cut the flowers and which flowers complement each other.

Today we were visted by Solihull Methodist Church and they led us in a Christmas service and we all joined in singing many Christmas carols.

The residents absolutely loved this and there were so many smiles while they were joining in and chatting with the members of the church.

The residents were each gifted a a handmade crocheted Dove of peace or Angel to keep. Afterwards we all enjoyed some Mince pies and Hot drinks while the residents spent time with the wonderful people who brought such joy to us today.

Here at Fountains we work hard to tailor the activities and trips to the residents individual interests.  One of our lovely residents asked if they could go visit Notcutt's to see the Christmas displays and have a coffee.

So today we went on a walk and made sure we were wrapped up nice and warm. In Notcutt's the resident didn't stop smiling and laughing and really enjoyed meeting people who passed and pointed out the decorations that interested them.

She also went on to tell me all about how they celebrated Christmas during wartime, which was extremely interesting to hear.