Reconnecting With The Community: Doreen’s Story
Doreen is a delightful 94-year-old lady living with dementia who has been a resident at Kingsacre Care Home since March 2020. She loves to sing, dance and join in every activity, however, despite lots of invitations and encouragement to attend events outside the home, she has never accepted the invitation due to anxiety about getting into a taxi.
Getting Out And About
Five years after Doreen moved in, Kingsacre now have our very own bus, to safely and easily take residents out on fun and therapeutic trips. Last week, our staff asked Doreen if she would like to travel with some fellow residents to a weekly community event being held at the Golden Friendship Club in Clydebank. Carol, our activities lead said “Her face just lit up” at the thought of being enabled to experience an outing.
The reassurance of using this safe, private transport with her friends outweighed her anxieties, and with the encouragement of our supportive team she boarded the bus and enjoyed a singalong on the journey. She loved looking out the window, recognising and reminiscing about the local area and Clydebank Golf Club; a place where Doreen and her husband used to enjoy a round of golf and dance the night away.
On arrival at the Golden Friendship Club, Doreen was thrilled to chat to their staff, as the group were personally escorted to their table. She was full of smiles, singing along to the music and chatting away with other attendees. The opportunity to socially interact with new people is hugely valuable, especially for residents living with dementia.
Doreen and our other residents enjoyed a delicious plate of fish and chips, followed by strawberry cake with ice cream. After lunch, Doreen raved about how fantastic the food was and asked if she could have a “wee cup of tea” now. Lots of other care homes attended this bustling event and Doreen was thrilled when a handsome gentleman asked her to dance. Her face immediately lit up as she accepted and made her way to the dance floor.
Boosting Confidence
After the event, there was no waiting around in the rain for a taxi, the happy group bounded on to the new bus ready to return home after an exciting day. One of our carers, Michelle, said “she was like a different person and we can’t wait for her next trip.”
Doreen and her friends couldn’t stop talking about their experience over the following days. We’re so grateful to have this safe, simple way for all our residents to have lots of fun and stay connected with our local community. Doreen can’t wait to continue exploring the city and experience every outing she can in Glasgow.
Our Care Home in Glasgow
At Kingsacre Care Home, we take a holistic approach to provide the highest standards of wellbeing for every one of our residents. Our exceptional residential, nursing, dementia, palliative and respite care is delivered alongside a range of luxury facilities and therapeutic activities, making every day special. Speak to our friendly care experts today to discuss how Kingsacre can support you and your loved ones.
