Welcoming spring in style at Austenwood
Austenwood Care Home. We welcomed spring in style at Austenwood with a spring-themed party for our residents, relatives and staff members.
It was a delightful afternoon filled with delicious food, great entertainment, and most importantly, the joy of spending time together.
Spring feast for all
Our talented chefs truly outdid themselves with a delicious buffet of homemade spring delights. From fresh and vibrant salads and tasty finger foods to delectable sweet treats, there was something for everyone. Residents, relatives, and staff all raised a glass of bubbly in a toast to the new season as they dug into the scrumptious spread.
An afternoon enjoyed by all
The beautiful spring-themed décor added a touch of whimsy and cheer to the atmosphere. Thank you to our amazing lifestyle team for meticulously crafting it all.
The afternoon truly came alive with the performance of a talented singer. His captivating voice filled the room, and soon, everyone was on their feet, dancing the afternoon away! Everyone was grooving to the music and enjoying themselves. It was a heartwarming sight to see residents, families, and staff members coming together.
Our home manager, Louise Hickman said: “It was lovely to see our residents, relatives and staff members all joining in and making memories. Thank you to my wonderful team for making this happen. We’re looking forward to many more celebrations like this in the months to come.”
If you would like to know more about life at Austenwood, or would like to speak to someone from our friendly team, please call 01753 890134 or drop by our lovely home in Gerrards Cross for a chat.
Sharing the warmth of Mother’s Day whether near or far
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who’ve shaped our lives. It’s a day brimming with love, appreciation, and often, family gatherings. We understand, however, that not everyone can be together on this special occasion. Distance, work obligations, or other circumstances may prevent families from reuniting in person.
But fear not. The spirit of Mother’s Day can still be shared and cherished, no matter the distance. Whether you’re planning a visit with your loved ones or connecting virtually, this blog post is here to spark some creative ideas for a memorable Mother’s Day.
Creating memories together
There’s nothing quite like the joy of spending quality time with family, and Mother’s Day offers the perfect opportunity. Here are some engaging activities to make the day special:
- Get creative: Unleash your inner artist! At Austenwood, we’re well-equipped with arts and crafts supplies, ready for families to create lasting memories together.
- Game On!: Dust off those board games or fire up the console! A friendly competition or a chance to work together can be both stimulating and bonding.
- Family talent show: Gather the family for a fun-filled evening of shared laughter and amazement. From party tricks to showcasing hidden talents, it’s a heartwarming way to connect and strengthen family bonds.
Bridging the distance
Technology allows us to connect with loved ones no matter where they are. If you’re unable to visit your mum or grandma in person, here are some ways to make them feel cherished and celebrated:
- Video calls: Platforms like Zoom or Skype offer a wonderful way to see and talk to loved ones in real-time. Enjoy a sing-along, share stories, or simply catch up. At Austenwood, our staff are always happy to assist residents in connecting with family.
- Digital memories: Create an online album or scrapbook filled with heartwarming photos and memories. This is especially meaningful for younger grandchildren who may not have many firsthand experiences with their grandparents.
- Go low tech: A handwritten card never goes out of style. Taking the time and effort to express your love and appreciation in a personal way can be a treasured keepsake.
- Virtual fun: Find an online activity you can do together, such as watching a movie simultaneously, playing an online game, or taking a virtual tour of a museum or zoo. Shared experiences, even virtual ones, can create lasting memories and strengthen your bond.
Remember, the heart of Mother’s Day lies in celebrating the love and connection between generations. Whether it’s a video call, a homemade treat, or a heartfelt message, your efforts will surely bring warmth and joy to your loved ones’ hearts.
So, this Mother’s Day, embrace creativity, make the most of technology, and most importantly, cherish the bonds of family.
From all of us at Austenwood, we wish you a joyous Mother’s Day filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories!
If you would like more information about what a Mother’s Day at Austenwood entails, or more information generally, why not have a chat with a member of our friendly team? Call 01753 890134 to find out more.
Beating the Winter Blues
Winter can be a wonderful time for many. The change in seasons can prompt moments of self-care – such as slowing down and cosying up – but the winter weather can bring a unique set of challenges, especially for older people.
Here at Austenwood Care Home, we are committed to providing a nurturing and uplifting environment for our residents, especially during the winter months.
The Impact of Winter on Elderly Well-being
Many elderly people report experiencing heightened joint pain and stiffness during winter which can make movement more challenging. The cold weather can exacerbate arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions, potentially limiting mobility and affecting overall well-being.
We understand the importance of keeping residents moving for their overall health but also to combat this potential winter soreness. Due to this, we partner with local specialists to encourage residents with fun, engaging activities tailored to their physical abilities.
In addition to physical strains, the winter weather can profoundly affect our moods and mental health, particularly in older people who are often already susceptible to feelings of isolation and low mood.
Encouraging and reminding residents that social interaction can improve their mood and help them feel connected and valued is a great way to help dampen the effects that less sunlight and cold temperatures can have.
This doesn’t need to be limited to people inside the home either, regular visits from and planned activities with loved ones can further improve good moods, helping residents feel cherished. If in-person visits are not possible, supporting them to take video calls so they can spend quality time with their family and friends can be a great way to keep them feeling connected.
Planning stimulating activities such as crafts, games and storytelling sessions can also help to not only promote socialisation but also increase mental stimulation, helping residents feel fulfilled and energised. The home is always full of live music, sing-songs and the smell of baking!
Food and Nutrition
Ensuring that residents maintain a nutritious and well-balanced diet becomes a crucial aspect of their well-being during the winter months.
Due to Winter’s increased likelihood of illnesses such as colds and flu, a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can support a robust immune system and improve energy levels.
A combination of less sunlight and mobility issues stopping them from getting outside can leave elderly people with a lack of vitamin D so foods such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products and eggs can help address this seasonal nutrient need. Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption which in turn supports bone health, something that we should all be aware of as we age.
Good nutrition can also help with maintaining a healthy weight. Excessive body weight can be detrimental to older people as their bodies live with years of wear and tear. A balanced diet can help manage weight by providing essential nutrients without excessive calories and can be even more important during the winter months when reduced physical activity can affect calorie expenditure.
Meal times can also provide a great opportunity to get everyone around the table and contribute to the feeling of togetherness, plus who doesn’t feel better after a meal of warm winter favourites amongst friends?
At Austenwood, we pride ourselves on taking the individual needs of our residents and building an environment in which they can thrive, no matter the weather.
If you would like to know more about life at Austenwood, or would like to speak to someone from our friendly team, please call 01753 890134 or drop by for a chat.
Aubrey, the therapy donkey, brings joy to Austenwood care home
The residents of Austenwood Care Home were delighted to have a special visitor recently – Aubrey, the therapy donkey! Audrey is a gentle and loving animal with a special talent for bringing joy and comfort to people, wherever she goes.
Animal therapy is a form of therapy where trained animals provide emotional, social and physical benefits to humans. Animal therapy has a positive impact on people living with dementia and also those dealing with anxiety and depression. The presence of animals can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase social interaction.
Aubrey was dressed in all red, bringing a festive cheer to the home. She had a calming and soothing presence and all the residents were excited to have her in our space. They were eager to interact with her and loved petting her and feeding her biscuits
Aubrey’s visit to Austenwood was a great reminder of the benefits of animal therapy and how much joy and comfort animals can bring to residents. Here are some of the wonderful benefits of animal therapy:
Reduces stress and anxiety:
Spending time with animals can help to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase production of oxytocin, the happy hormone.
Improves mood and well-being:
Animal therapy can help to boost mood, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, and increase overall happiness.
Promotes physical activity:
Engaging in activities with animals, such as walking or playing, can help to improve physical fitness and mobility.
Enhances social interaction:
Animals can help to break down barriers and foster social interaction, especially for those who may be shy or withdrawn.
Previously, at Austenwood, we had a visit from alpacas Hugo and Finley, who also brought so much joy and laughter to our residents and staff!
For more information about our activities and events, please feel free to call us at +44 1753 890134 and a member of our friendly staff will be happy to speak with you.
Brand new interactive screens added to our home
At Austenwood Care Home, we have taken a giant leap forward in enhancing the lives of its residents with the introduction of a state-of-the-art interactive technology – the LifeSize Touch activity table.
The activity table was a gift from Premium Care Group directors, Robert and Renos, which has become quite a hit amongst residents.
What is an interactive activity table?
The LifeSize Touch activity table offers an extensive range of interactive activities, including puzzles, sensory games, music, and much more, catering to the diverse needs and interests of the residents.
Our care home staff have already started including the activity table in the residents’ daily activities. They have set up WhatsApp on it, which has made it easier for residents to chat with family members and friends. One resident has already become an expert at using the activity table and video calling her loved ones.
Our home manager Corina Andreescu said:
”We’re thrilled to introduce the LifeSize Touch activity table to our residents. It’s not just a piece of technology but a gateway to new experiences, connections, and a world of engagement.”
So far, we have done some amazing things with it
Residents have already embarked on virtual journeys around the globe using the interactive table. One of our lovely residents was transported back to her childhood home in Jamaica and relived memories from her childhood.
The interactive table helped residents revisit fond holiday destinations and their family homes, and even explore unfulfilled travel destinations, allowing residents to relive and share their life stories in an unprecedented way.
The activity table has been designed with the needs of older adults and individuals with varying abilities in mind, the large touchscreen provides a user-friendly interface that is great for care home residents.
The introduction of the LifeSize Touch activity table will be a great addition to the activities and routine of the residents at Austenwood.
For more information about Austenwood Care Home, call our friendly team at 01753 890 134 or drop by any time for a visit!
Austenwood is under new ownership
Premium Care Group has taken over Austenwood Care Home as they continue their mission to provide outstanding care and support to people in Buckinghamshire.
The new home owners, who took over the home in May 2023 will be making an investment to transform the home into a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment.
Austenwood is a beautiful Edwardian house situated in the heart of Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire and provides companionship, friendship and a place to call home.
The changes will also see the management of the home transformed, with improvements being made to staff training and development and personalised care and activity programmes.
Robert Adams, managing director at Premium Care Group, said: “We are delighted to be the new owners of the beautiful Austenwood Care Home.
“Our vision is to provide extraordinary care, so we will continue to invest in the buildings and facilities at Austenwood, as well as continually improve training, development and recruitment.
“As a local care home owner, I look forward to increasing our strong links with the local community.”
Premium Care Group also own Kingfishers Care Home in Buckinghamshire, Ardtully and Old Shenfield in Brentwood and Weald Hall Care Home, situated in Epping, as well as two Outstanding CQC rated homes in Oxfordshire.
For more information on our lovely care home, feel free to get in touch by emailing enquiries@austenwoodcarehome.co.uk or calling 01753 890134.
Welcome to Austenwood Care Home
Austenwood is a family-focused and community-oriented residential home situated in the heart of Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire. The home provides residential care, along with companionship, friendship and a place to call home.
At Austenwood, our priority is to create a warm and comfortable environment for our residents, their families, and our team. We have formed a community of people who respect and appreciate one another and always lend a helping hand when needed.
Our dedicated team work tirelessly to ensure our home is a warm and welcoming environment for residents. We treat every resident with respect and dignity and provide them with a bespoke package of care that is just right for them. Providing quality care to our residents is at the heart of what we do – our values are centred around residents having a sense of purpose and belonging, to live well, and to find enjoyment.
We pride ourselves in building strong connections with our residents and their families to create a safe and loving environment. We encourage family visits and provide support in every way we can to ensure that they are smooth and pleasant.
Freedom and privacy are important to us and so we ensure that residents are able to enjoy spending time in their bedrooms and they aren’t just a place to sleep. We provide a variety of room types, with ensuite and wet rooms, for our residents to choose from.
All of our rooms are fully furnished, however many of our residents bring their own furniture from home, along with ornaments and family photographs so that their bedroom feels as homely as possible, as quickly as possible.
At Austenwood, we encourage individuality through hobbies and activities. We help our residents discover new hobbies that they can enjoy in their situation, be it reading their favourite books, painting, or even going for walks around town. We strive to provide them with as much support as we can to pursue their own interests.
Our future blogs will give you a sneak-peak into the daily happenings in and around Austenwood and share expert care advice from our home. Watch this space for news, updates, details about activities and events, and more information about Austenwood and its residents.
For more information on our beautiful care home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 01753 890134 or emailing enquiries@austenwoodcarehome.co.uk.
