“This is fantastic, I haven’t done one of these for years”, was the joyous remark made by 96 year old Betty from Orchard House Care Home in Wisbech after finishing her entry for the pumpkin carving competition.
With so much uncertainty being experienced by everyone around the world, there is a familiar comfort and reassurance by being able to enjoy events such as this year’s Halloween.
These were the thoughts of the team at the Residential Dementia and Nursing home in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, who wanted to create a magical and spellbinding week for the residents who live within the service.
A regular favourite on the social calendar, arts and crafts looked very different for the themed occasion as residents made gravestone props. Laughter and banter were shared by all as the residents came up with names to mark the gravestones: Aji-Tate and Dick-Tate were the firm favourites!
Activity Co-ordinator Miranda who, along with her colleagues, had planned the week’s spooktacular events commented on the inspiration behind them, “It has been really important for us to carry on celebrating events that we would normally at Orchard House. We’re a very active and engaging home and there is always something going on, so Halloween week was always going to be a fun packed week. The enjoyment and laughter had by all is infectious, we have had a fang-tastic time. I also love the fact that it brought back a lot of fond memories for all.”
Registered Manager Maxine Bain echoed these sentiments, “It’s great seeing the delight as residents take part in the Halloween themed competitions. It’s been even more surprising to see the competitive nature amongst the residents as they all want to come first. I am exceptionally proud of the wonderful cheer and smiles created by the Halloween events this week!”