Residents, fondly referred to as family members, from Catherine House Care Home in Frome headed out to Westonbirt Arboretum recently for a guided visit, exploring the national tree collection with one of the Arboretum’s friendly volunteers. They spent time outdoors, taking in the sights, smells and sounds of the trail, and even brought back a few samples to share back at home.
A Day That Felt Personal
The visit gave everyone the chance to go at their own pace. Monica and Sheila were full of questions, and the guide was happy to stop, chat and pass around bits of bark and leaves to touch and smell. It made the walk feel more hands-on and engaging, especially for those living with a Dementia. Sheila took a few samples back with her and popped them by her telly, ready to show her daughter when she dropped in. “She was still talking about it the next morning,” said Sharon, Catherine House’s activity coordinator, when she popped by to say good morning to her the next day.
Catherine House Care Home values the importance of maintaining the routines and experiences that feel familiar, whether that’s spending time on a hobby, enjoying home baking, or going for local outings. It’s about offering choice and creating opportunities that feel natural and meaningful.
Stephen used a mobility scooter on the day, which gave him a bit more freedom and independence to explore on his own. The group also travelled in the home’s minibus, which makes days out like this a lot easier and more comfortable.
Life Beyond the Home
Catherine House Care Home values the importance of maintaining the routines and experiences that feel familiar, whether that’s spending time on a hobby, enjoying home baking, or going for local outings. It’s about offering choice and creating opportunities that feel natural and meaningful.
Visit Westonbirt Arboretum at forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum
Contact Catherine House (www.catherinehosuecarehome.com)