We had an afternoon filled with learning interesting facts about the invention and history of telephones. Discussions were enjoyed as we remembered the first telephones in our homes, our first childhood phone numbers and the first mobile phones our residents may have had. Supposedly, there are 1 billion landlines and 10 billion mobile phones around the world. What advancements the world has seen with this technology. We also got creative and in order for us to communicate, we made our own ‘lover’s phones’ with paper cups and string instead of tin cans. 

Our residents thoroughly enjoyed an early evening quiz night with a refreshing glass of Buck’s Fizz. A real test of general knowledge covering a variety of subjects. Between the quiz book and printed quizzes we really did learn some interesting facts and tested our memories. One question was about where the myth about carrots helping us to see in the dark came from. It transpires that it was made up during the Second World War by the RAF - their pilots ate lots of carrots and therefore had exceptional night vision. It was started to help prevent the Germans from finding out the British were using radar during night raids to intercept bombers. 

Did someone mention tea…? Residents recently spent time enjoying a cup of tea, while learning about and celebrating the traditions of afternoon tea. A special treat was shared by the activities assistant with her very own teapot collection from around the world with plenty of interesting stories about them all. There was even a vote for which way to have your cream and jam and residents voted for the Devon way of scones with cream then jam. The afternoon also included different tea tasting and tea themed puzzles allowing for lots of interactive fun. 

We don’t always have to have a specific reason to take residents out and about - sometimes it’s just to get a little treat! A special hot chocolate, a fancy coffee or a delicious slice of cake. We did ask for recommendations for the best hot chocolate in Surrey and it seems we tried and tested a few but the best part was converting some coffee lovers to enjoy a good old classic hot chocolate. More specifically luxury hot chocolates filled with cream and marshmallows. What more could you ask for when popping out. 

We thoroughly enjoyed our 10 year celebrations with our Summer Fete and it was brilliant to have so many residents’ family and friends and others from the local community join us for the afternoon. Everyone enjoyed the BBQ, ice cream, games and mini massages. The highlight of the afternoon was the farm animals with 5 week old baby rabbits, which were loved by young and old. Some lovely prizes were won in the raffle, some cake was eaten, a long standing staff service award was presented and a tree was planted to mark this momentous occasion. The afternoon was filled with beautiful music played by local Ukelele players from the group Ukes an’ Sing. It is amazing that Worplesdon View has been caring for residents for 10 years and made a home for so many.

Water painting is very therapeutic and we try to use this to support those residents who prefer to stay in smaller groups or within their own spaces. It engages one’s imagination and stimulates discussions and often laughter. It also brings back plenty of fond memories. Movement is an essential part of this process and helps residents with their coordination in order to create and reveal the picture. The reward is most certainly in the conversations and interactions and seeing the residents' enjoyment.