Line dancing your way out of loneliness
On 4th October, Brentwood Care Centre held their Wild Western themed Silver Sunday event. From line dancing cowboys to saloon worthy snacks, the residential dementia and nursing care home in Brentwood really grabbed the bull by the horns for this year’s event.
Silver Sunday is a national day which was set up by the Sir Simon Milton Foundation, a charity which works to reduce loneliness and isolation amongst older people. For one day every year, Silver Sunday provides older people an opportunity to get out of the house, try new things and meet new people as well as to find out about local services that are available to them throughout the year.
Whilst loneliness can strike at any age, older people are at greater risk. According to Age UK, more than a million older people over the age of 65 say they go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member. The national day aims to combat some of that loneliness by providing free and fun events for older people to try something new and make new friends.
“Brentwood is a happy atmosphere; people are nice and friendly and I have lots of friends who I can have a chat with over a cuppa. I enjoy the entertainment as I can get up and let my hair down and have a dance.” ~ Dolly Rice, Resident
Yeehaw flavoured yesteryear
Brentwood Care Centre reached out to members of the local elderly community and invited visitors to participate in their activities. Celebrations at the dementia specialist care home included line dancing, games and live music by Angie Walker (a local performer). Our residents love any excuse to dress up in fancy dress and Silver Sunday was no exception with visiting guests, families and staff joining them in donning cowboy hats, neckerchiefs and chequered shirts to really show off their “ranch dressing”!
After numerous Grapevines, Heel Digs and Pivot Turns, everyone kicked up their heels to enjoy an extensive buffet, with favourites of residents and guests alike including the special spicy chicken, burgers and slaw. The only thing missing from the day was having a horse there too – something to keep in mind for next year!
Silver Sunday Founder, Lady Christabel Flight, commented: “We are always thrilled with the way RCH bring Silver Sunday to life and the imagination and care that has gone in to crafting their plans for 2019 is wonderful to see. It was such an uplifting occasion within their community and great fun.”
Between stealing dances with the residents, RCH Care Homes Chief Operating Officer, Stephen Rees remarked: “We’re honoured to once again be part of such a worthwhile cause taking place across the country. At RCH, we want to be at the forefront of supporting older people in our wider communities facing isolation and loneliness.”
If you or a loved one is thinking about residential care now or in the future, why not take advantage of our special 4 for 3 respite care to get a true feel of how fun and exciting it can be, and where they can make some new friends too.
Alternatively, as Christmas can be a difficult time of the year for some members of the community who find themselves alone, why not call us on 01277 575 323 or pop in for a cup of tea to discuss ‘respite at Christmas’ and you could spend the festive season sipping mulled wine, eating home-made mince pies, and savouring the traditional Christmas Fayre instead! We might even have a few elves visiting!
