Don’t step on my blue suede hooves
There was animal magic and celebration all around when the teams at two West Drayton care homes welcomed the local community in for a day of art-themed fun and games.
The Care UK teams at The Burroughs care home on Mill Road, and Franklin House on The Green, welcomed local people for Care Home Open Day, a countrywide initiative set up to develop lasting relationships between care homes and local communities, and to dispel common myths about care home life.
This year’s theme celebrated the role of arts within care, which is important in encouraging residents’ self-expression, and helps to create meaningful experiences.
At The Burroughs, residents and visitors tapped their toes to live entertainment from an Elvis impersonator, and were treated to a tasty barbecue specially prepared by the home’s chef.
Meanwhile, residents and visitors at Franklin House enjoyed an art-themed party with arts and crafts, as well as a special visit from a variety of farm animals. Visitors were also treated to a delicious cream tea.
As part of a nationwide competition for all Care UK homes, The Burroughs and Franklin House also developed works of arts in the lead up to the open day, which were unveiled at the event.
Mathew V Mathew, home manager at Franklin House, said: “Everyone at Franklin House had an amazing time celebrating with the local community for Care Home Open Day 2019.
“This year’s theme of ‘Celebrating Arts in Care’ was a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase all the brilliant activities we get up to on a daily basis here at Franklin House.”
Bozena Szczepaniak, home manager at The Burroughs, added: “Music can have many therapeutic benefits for older people – especially those living with dementia – by offering them a way to communicate and express themselves, while also triggering happy memories from their younger years and the associated emotions. It’s safe to say a fantastic day was had by all.”