HOW CARE HOMES ARE CHANGING
To borrow a line from The Teddy Bear ’ s Picnic : if you go down to a care home today , you ’ re sure for a big surprise .
That ’ s certainly the case if your idea of a care home is a group of bored older people sitting in a semi-circle in a room that smells of disinfectant .
That image may once have been true , but visit a high quality , modern care home and you ’ ll find things are very different .
A DISCERNING AUDIENCE
The best residential care for older people has the distinct feel of a boutique hotel .
The thought that has gone into the interior design is evident from the stylish furniture to the wallpaper and lighting . The uninspiring institutional paint that was once used on every wall has been replaced by a variety of colours and textures , creating interest for the eye and a more homely feel .
A FEAST FOR THE SENSES
Meal times are unrecognisable from care homes of a few decades ago . Older people still love classic Great British dishes but many also enjoy a range of world cuisines from French and Italian to Indian or Chinese .
Variety goes hand in hand with quality , with choices to suit every appetite and palate . Behind the food lies real nutritional science , ensuring that meals are balanced and residents are receiving the calories , vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy .
Some older people experience difficulty in swallowing ( dysphagia ) and the best care homes will not only ensure a tasty and varied diet but also that it comes in the appropriate consistency and is well presented .
STIMULATION FOR BODY AND MIND
Choice and quality is equally vital when it comes to activities . It ’ s very normal for care homes to offer a range of things for residents to do , but not all activities are the same .
“ We employ a specialist company to help design and coordinate our activity programmes ,” explains Lesley Loizou , Customer Relations Manager at Baycroft . “ Not only do they have the expertise to ensure there ’ s something to keep everyone engaged and active , they also help train our staff .”
Many older people wish to keep up with activities they enjoyed before moving to a care home . For some that may be gardening , where raised beds help save stiff backs . Cooking can become a hobby for residents , rather than a daily chore .
DEMENTIA CARE
Specialists are particularly important for ensuring those with dementia can
take part in activities . Having the right equipment for such activities is very important , especially for anyone with more advanced dementia .
“ We have an amazing ‘ magic table ’ that really help residents with dementia ,” adds Lesley . “ Images are projected and people can alter them or play simple games just by moving their hands across the table . It can really draw those with dementia out of themselves and help enrich their lives .”
FANTASTIC FACILITIES
Leading modern care homes boast a fantastic range of special facilities and services . Look out for cinemas , gyms , hairdressers , treatment rooms and even snooker rooms . A mini bus is on hand to ensure our residents remain connected to their local community and are able to visit both new and familiar local landmarks .
There is now a very different attitude towards patient care . Independence is highly valued and each person is considered as an individual . Quality care comes through providing whatever is required to keep residents happy , well and fulfilled .
If you ’ d like to arrange a visit to our new home in Orpington , get in contact via the details below :
LUXURY CARE HOME
NOW OPEN
75 BEDS RESIDENTIAL CARE
NURSING CARE
DEMENTIA CARE
GRAYS FARM ROAD , ORPINGTON , KENT , BR5 3AD 020 8302 2567 info @ baycroft . co . uk baycroft . co . uk