Activities at Peony Court Care Home

In celebration of National Carers Week, residents at Peony Court expressed their appreciation by creating heartfelt thank-you cards during an arts and crafts session, followed by a delightful afternoon tea party in the garden. The day was filled with laughter, gratitude, and well-deserved recognition for the care team. 

Residents also nominated carers for a series of fun and light-hearted awards, including “Mood Lifter of the Year” and “Snack Dealer Extraordinaire,” highlighting the unique qualities that make each team member special. Peony Court Resident Ambassador, Marlene presented the carers with their award sashes and shared warm words of thanks on behalf of all residents. The carers proudly wore their sashes throughout the day, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.  We say a big thank you to all our carers for their kindness, dedication, and the difference they make every day, we appreciate you more than words can say.      

Residents at Peony Court were treated to a refreshing afternoon at our very own ice cream and smoothie bar. With the sun blazing, it was the perfect time to offer something cool, colourful and uplifting. Residents enjoyed a delicious mix of chilled drinks, fruity smoothies and sweet treats, creating a relaxed atmosphere where everyone could unwind and stay comfortable in the heat. 

The selection of flavours at our ice cream bar was a particular favourite, bringing plenty of smiles and sparking conversations about childhood summers and favourite desserts. Marlene, our resident ambassador, was especially delighted. She couldn’t get enough of her smoothie and happily asked for a second helping. It was a simple but joyful way to help everyone stay cool, hydrated and happy during the heat.  

There’s something about a warm afternoon that brings both colour and happiness, and Peony Court embraced it with fresh blooms and a drink of Pimms. Guided by our Activities Assistant, Bo, residents made the most of the garden, settling outdoors to trim, arrange and create their own bright, personal floral displays. With a refreshing drink in hand, conversation flowed easily. 

Ideas were exchanged, friendly tips were shared, and each arrangement began to show its own unique character. The environment was relaxed and gently creative, with plenty of smiles as the tables filled with vibrant colour. By the end of the afternoon, everyone had crafted something beautiful and enjoyed a peaceful, cheerful few hours together in the sunshine.    

The talented Flauguissimo Duo recently enriched Peony Court with beautiful classical music, creating an afternoon of uplifting moments and shared enjoyment. The dynamic duo captivated everyone with their performance, bringing a wonderful selection of classical pieces to life. 

As the melodies filled the room, many residents found themselves gently humming along, fully engaged in the experience. The concert offered more than just entertainment, it was both soothing and therapeutic, creating a calm and joyful atmosphere for all who attended. Music has a unique way of connecting people, and this performance was a perfect reflection of that.   

St Patrick’s celebrations at Peony Court got off to a wonderful start with a lively performance from the Foley-Rose-Kelly School of Irish Dance. The talented dancers filled the room with energy as they performed traditional routines to upbeat Irish music, showcasing impressive footwork, high kicks and beautiful timing.

The performance created a fantastic atmosphere, with plenty of smiles, applause and even a few toes tapping along to the rhythm. It was a brilliant way to begin the St Patrick’s festivities and bring a touch of Irish culture and celebration into the home.  

A lively and engaging game of Gin Rummy recently brought residents at Peony Court together for an afternoon of focus and friendly competition. The room quickly filled with concentration as residents gathered around the tables, cards in hand and minds fully immersed in the game. It was clear from the start that this was more than just a casual activity, every move was carefully considered, and, as the saying goes, all hands were truly on deck.          

The atmosphere was lively yet focused, with players fully invested in each round, eagerly anticipating their next winning move. Marlene shared her experience, saying: “You really have to think about every card, it keeps you on your toes! I enjoy the challenge, and it’s even better playing alongside everyone else.” Paul, our Activity Coordinator, also reflected on the session: “It was fantastic to see everyone so focused and involved. Games like Gin Rummy are great for stimulating the mind, but they also bring people together. The energy in the room was brilliant.”

We marked this year’s Dementia Action Week with a thoughtful programme of activities designed to raise awareness, spark conversation and support those living with dementia. Residents and families took part in educational talks as we welcomed dementia-friendly community groups into our home and enjoyed meaningful moments of reminiscence together. 

It was a week filled with learning, connection and compassion. We began the month of May with an Understanding Dementia awareness session led by Clare Phillips from the Bromley Dementia Friendly Community. Clare offered clear, relatable insights into what living with dementia can feel like and shared simple ways we can all offer support. As Charles, our General Manager, commented: “Creating understanding and knowledge is one of the most powerful ways we can support our residents and their families.”        

Residents at Peony Court recently enjoyed a delightful outdoor trip to Kelsey Park, making the most of the beautiful weather. With the sun shining brightly and sunglasses on, it was the perfect day to relax and take in the surroundings. Everyone savoured a refreshing ice cream while watching ducks glide peacefully across the water, creating a calm and cheerful atmosphere. There were plenty of lovely moments shared, including when WanHing pointed out a beautiful bird to Joyce, saying, “Look at that one, it’s so beautiful, I have never seen one like it before.” 

The trip was a breath of fresh air, full of laughter, nature, and simple pleasures. Another special memory made together at Peony Court.      

Peony Court marked World Parkinson’s Day with a meaningful and engaging afternoon dedicated to raising awareness and supporting wellbeing. We were pleased to welcome Frances Lamberth, from Fairhand Visiting Physiotherapists, who delivered an insightful talk on Parkinson’s, sharing valuable information and practical guidance. This was followed by a gentle exercise session, encouraging residents to stay active while promoting confidence and mobility in a supportive environment. 

The event also included a thoughtful touch from Chef Kerry, who prepared blue-themed vanilla cupcakes in recognition of the day, adding a sense of occasion and enjoyment for everyone involved.        

There was plenty of concentration and laughter during a recent game of cribbage at Peony Court. The ladies gathered around the table to enjoy a friendly match, putting their card skills and strategies to the test. 

Paul, our Activities Coordinator, decided to join in and try his luck against the experienced players. However, despite his best efforts, the ladies proved to be tough competition, and he ended up losing the game. Safe to say, the cribbage experts at Peony Court showed him exactly how it’s done!       

Residents at Peony Court enjoyed a wonderful day out at Knights Garden Centre, embracing the beauty of nature and the simple pleasures of time spent together. Surrounded by vibrant blooms, lush greenery, and the fresh countryside air, the outing gave a refreshing change of scenery and a chance for residents to explore at their own pace. Wendy, one of our residents, particularly enjoyed this part of the day, saying:

“It was just lovely to sit and have a nice cup of tea after looking at all the beautiful plants. It made the whole day feel so relaxing.” Another resident, Vicky, added: “I really enjoyed seeing all the flowers, it reminded me of my own garden. It was such a peaceful outing.” The outing was no doubt refreshing.

Residents from Peony enjoyed a refreshing day out at Farthing Downs, a stunning 53.3 hectare landscape of chalk grassland, ancient woodland, and vibrant wildflower habitats. As they explored the rolling hills and peaceful pathways, residents spotted butterflies, birds, and colourful blooms, including orchids and the nationally scarce greater yellow rattle.      

The warm weather made the perfect setting to relax with ice cream while taking in the views. Activities Coordinator, Paul, shared, “Farthing Downs offers something truly special. Being surrounded by nature lifts everyone’s spirits and brings a real sense of calm.”    

Residents from Peony Court recently enjoyed a relaxing afternoon outing organised with the support of the Rotary Club of Croydon. We were invited to Knights Garden Centre in Woldingham, where we spent time together over tea and scones in the warm spring weather. We then visited Carshalton Ponds to enjoy the fresh air; Mary especially loved watching the ducks glide across the water. The outing left everyone feeling refreshed, uplifted and grateful for the chance to spend time outdoors. 

Residents were already asking Paul the activities coordinator, when the next outing would be. He said, "It’s amazing how a simple change of scenery can brighten everyone’s spirits. The residents came home smiling, chatting about the day, and already asking when the next outing would be."     

Residents enjoyed their first outdoor trip of the season with a visit to Morden Hall Park. It was a refreshing day, filled with gentle walks, beautiful scenery, and the welcome feeling of warmer days as summer slowly began to arrive. The group took in the fresh air and natural surroundings, making the most of the peaceful setting and each other’s company. 

Joyce and Bill were especially delighted to be outdoors again, embracing the moment with smiles and enthusiasm. As Joyce cheerfully put it: “A little sunshine, a good walk, and great company, what more could you ask for?”      

Residents at Peony Court recently enjoyed a relaxing and creative flower arranging session, where everyone had the opportunity to design their own beautiful displays. The activity created a calm and cheerful atmosphere as residents selected colourful blooms, arranged their stems and shared ideas with one another. It was wonderful to see the room filled with creativity, conversation and laughter as everyone took their time crafting their arrangements. 

A special mention goes to Marlene, our Resident Ambassador, who was the first to complete her arrangement. Her flowers looked absolutely fabulous and were admired by everyone in the room. It was a delightful afternoon that brought colour, creativity and great company together at Peony Court.