Caer Gwent: Keeping residents warm, cosy and cared for
Guild Care has been caring for the Worthing community for almost a century. At all our homes – Caer Gwent, Linfield House and Haviland House – a carefully curated daily wellbeing schedule ensures there is something for every interest and ability at every time of the year.
In this article, we hear from Sammy Paynter, wellbeing coordinator at Guild Care, about some of the sessions and activities Caer Gwent’s residents are enjoying this autumn.
Embracing the seasons
The leaves are falling and the nights are drawing in, so here at Caer Gwent we’ve been busy making sure our home feels cosy and inviting for the months ahead. Residents have enjoyed seasonal arts and crafts sessions, making wreaths and decorating autumn leaves that we’re putting on display around the home. We’re creating a thanksgiving tree where people are invited to write things they are grateful for on wooden leaves that will be hung on the tree and displayed in one of our communal areas.
In the next few weeks we’ll be serving tasty gingerbread muffins and other comforting treats, as well as hosting interactive sessions such as pumpkin carving and Hallowe’en bingo. And we’re already looking ahead to the festive season, with a large group of residents booked to see the Salvation Army brass band in December and a trip to the pantomime on the cards.
Combatting isolation
I’m always aware that this time of year can be challenging, with feelings of loneliness and isolation more prevalent in the winter months. So I make sure my activity plans help to combat this and provide something to brighten everyone’s day. We also have plenty of one-to-one activities for those who prefer to spend time alone or in smaller groups.
I recently started storytelling sessions, where residents can put their feet up and get cosy under a blanket while listening to me read to them. It’s a perfect activity for rainy days and we have plenty of tea and biscuits to enjoy while listening. It was a joy to see so many residents attending the first session, when we started reading The Secret Garden together.
Music, movement and moments to unwind
We are fortunate to have a number of talented musical performers who visit Caer Gwent regularly to host music and singing sessions. These are always popular with residents and their visitors, but especially so during the winter months. Local musician, Lucy, has been playing piano for Caer Gwent residents for many years and recently marked her 100th visit to the home. We celebrated the occasion with cake and a card to thank Lucy, signed by all our residents.
Animal therapy is another popular choice for residents who are seeking comfort and calm. Local sanctuary Our Amazing Animal World regularly brings a variety of animals for residents to interact with, from cuddly bunnies to fascinating reptiles.
Throughout the week we also have plenty of movement sessions, ranging from gentle chair yoga sessions to drumfit. All of this is underpinned by 24/7 nursing care included for all residents as standard, making sure everyone feels cared for and content, all year round.
To find out more about life at Caer Gwent or to arrange a visit, please call our friendly customer relationship team on 01903 327327 or email [email protected].