Messages of love from care home residents

In response to one of the toughest Coronavirus challenges – the need to keep life as normal as possible for care home residents living with dementia – a local activities organiser has revised plans for spring with a programme of entertaining and healthy new coronavirus activities that can take place wholly within the care home.

Richard Dempslake of Camelot House and Lodge in Wellington said: “It’s vital to keep boosting the morale of our residents, many of whom are confused and worried by the need to observe restrictions on visitors or don’t understand why they can’t enjoy going on their usual local outings.

“A great way of doing this is to keep our residents engaged and active in the way best suited to each individual, which we’re doing using a two-pronged strategy.

“First we’re ensuring we provide a varied programme that will keep everyone entertained and give them appropriate opportunities for physical exercise as well, with some great games and activities for all levels of mobility.

“Second, we’re working really hard to minimise the impact for those residents who normally enjoy regular visits from family and friends by making sure they can talk to or otherwise communicate with them as fully and as frequently as possible via phone calls, Skype calls, social media and emails.

“We’ve also had some lovely messages from members of the local community – as well a beautiful selection of picture painted by children at Taunton’s Mama Bear’s Day Nursery – and would like to thank everyone who has been in touch. Your kindness and support are hugely appreciated.”

Camelot House and Lodge is run by the Camelot Care group. The group has further specialist dementia care homes in Bridgwater and Plymouth. For further information see www.camelotcare.co.uk