Last week was filled to the brim with exciting activities and events happening all around Hill House as we honoured and looked back on the history of Royal Ascot. The residents enjoyed attending lively garden parties, participating in thrilling giant floor racing games, and soaking up the warm summer sun outdoors.
The week kicked off with an exciting start as we delved into the world of Royal Ascot with a captivating milliner’s class on Monday morning. Our creative juices flowed as we crafted exquisite fascinators and headbands that were fit for the grandeur of Royal Ascot. It was a truly remarkable experience, where we embraced the elegance and sophistication associated with this prestigious event.
We kicked off our Monday morning with a delightful combination of coffee and brain-stimulating activities, setting the tone for a productive day ahead. Engaging in a word search and crosswords session with the activities team not only sharpened our minds but also fostered a sense of camaraderie as we worked together to solve the puzzles.
A cluster of us relished in the afternoon by tuning in to the live Euro football match, while some indulged in a luxurious pampering session featuring manicures and hand massages.
The Monday afternoon tea party at Our Lady’s Day was an absolute triumph, as the ladies adorned themselves with their own handcrafted fascinators. The atmosphere was filled with elegance, with tables adorned with beautiful flowers and delicate bone china cups.
Surrounded by friends, they indulged in the soothing melodies of live piano music, engaging in lively conversations about life and reminiscing about the thrilling days spent at the races in the past. It was a delightful gathering that brought joy and nostalgia to all who attended.
Tuesday morning, marking the start of an exciting day ahead. To kick things off, we decided to engage in a thrilling round of Jockey bingo. The day lounge quickly filled with a lively crowd, as a large group of us eagerly gathered to participate in this fabulous game. Laughter and anticipation filled the air as we prepared ourselves for a memorable morning of friendly competition and camaraderie.
In our art class this week, we drew inspiration from Franz Marc’s famous painting, the Blue Horse. With the help of the Artist Impression technique, we embarked on recreating this breathtaking image using vibrant watercolours. The class was filled with excitement as we carefully blended the colours and brought the majestic blue horse to life on our canvases. It was truly a remarkable experience to witness the transformation of our artwork, capturing the essence of Marc’s masterpiece in our own unique way.
Strolling through the gardens surrounding the home provided us with the perfect opportunity to bask in the gentle breeze and savour the crisp air prior to our midday meal.
The dementia choir met up at Farnham Mill for a delightful afternoon filled with singing their beloved hymns and songs. The atmosphere was filled with joy and camaraderie as they raised their voices in harmony, creating beautiful music together.
At Hill House, our team is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections with each resident through personalized one-on-one engagement. We take the time to truly understand everyone’s personal interests and passions, whether it’s playing their favourite song and dancing along with them or watching nostalgic videos of their hometown to spark cherished memories. This daily practice not only enhances the quality of life for our residents but also creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels valued and understood.
The group physio session on Tuesday afternoons is an absolute blast! Whether it’s working on exercises together or engaging in interactive games, everyone leaves with a smile on their face.
We embarked on an exhilarating adventure with our colossal horse racing floor game, where we eagerly embraced the challenge of being the first to triumphantly gallop across the finish line.
Rev Tara led our monthly church service on Wednesday morning, creating a peaceful and reverent atmosphere as she guided us through moments of reflection, prayer, and uplifting hymns. This enriching experience brought our community together in worship and spiritual connection.
During our weekly bus excursion, we had the pleasure of exploring the charming village of Seale. Our first stop was at the quaint Manor Farm Tea rooms, where we indulged in some refreshing beverages and treated ourselves to a delicious slice of cake.
As we sat around the table, savouring our treats, we engaged in lively conversation about the rich history of the area, which dates back to medieval times. The picturesque surroundings and the stories of the past added an extra layer of enjoyment to our outing, making it a truly memorable experience for all of us.
Wednesday afternoon, we gathered to partake in the art of flower arranging, with a diverse selection of fresh blooms. With these beautiful flowers at our disposal, we meticulously crafted a total of 18 breathtaking floral arrangements that left us in awe of our creativity and skill.
Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature, including flowers, can have a calming effect on our minds and promote relaxation. Additionally, flowers can also improve the air quality in our homes by acting as natural air purifiers, removing toxins and releasing oxygen. Lastly, having flowers around the home can boost our creativity and productivity. Their beauty and elegance can inspire us and stimulate our imagination, making our living spaces more inspiring and conducive to work or relaxation.
Our garden view lounges were abuzz with a plethora of therapeutic activities during the afternoon. We indulged in a range of activities, from independent knitting sessions to heartwarming pet therapy sessions with our beloved furry friends, Tinkerbell and Mercedes.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and relaxation as residents found solace in these activities, allowing them to unwind and find comfort in the company of others.
Thursday morning was a much-needed break from our busy schedules as our trusted hairdresser paid us a visit. This weekly ritual of pampering not only allows us to unwind and rejuvenate but also boosts our self-confidence. It’s a wonderful chance to indulge in some self-care and come out feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
Reconnecting with loved ones and cherished companions is a delightful experience that brings immense joy and warmth to our lives. The act of catching up with family and friends is like embarking on a beautiful journey filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations.
Our day was invigorated by the lively game of balloon tennis, injecting a burst of energy into our activities.
The afternoon of Thursday was filled with lively entertainment that had us all on our feet, dancing and singing along to the captivating music. The atmosphere was electric as the melodies filled the air, and we couldn’t help but let loose and immerse ourselves in the joyous rhythm.
On Friday morning, we dedicated some quality time to perusing the latest news in the daily papers while savouring a steaming cup of coffee, carefully selecting the most intriguing stories to delve into.
In the hours that followed, we all congregated in the lush garden to eagerly greet our beloved pygmy goats. The sight of these adorable creatures never fails to bring a smile to our faces, and we take great pleasure in showering them with attention and affection.
We happily offer them their favourite treats and pamper them with love and care, revelling in the happiness they bring into our lives.
We embarked on an exciting sensory journey that afternoon, delving into the world of essential oils and their incredible healing properties. They skilfully blended these oils with witch hazel, concocting a delightful array of pillow sprays that promise a restful night’s sleep.
Basking in the glorious summer sunshine, we embraced the opportunity to host a delightful garden tea party reminiscent of the elegance and grandeur of a Royal Ascot affair. The vibrant blooms of the garden provided a picturesque backdrop as we gathered under the warm rays of the sun. With tables adorned with exquisite floral arrangements and delicate china teacups, we indulged in a leisurely afternoon of sipping tea, savouring delectable treats, and engaging in lively conversations.
Saturday, we began our day with group quiz games that tested our knowledge and brought us closer together. We then explored our artistic side through watercolour painting.
The morning ended with an exciting game of indoor football in the garden view lounge. It was filled with intellectual stimulation, creativity, and physical activity, leaving us feeling accomplished and connected.
The group also delved into a complex crossword puzzle that served as a true measure of their cognitive abilities and the guests’ problem-solving skills. Even though it presented a tough challenge, all participants thoroughly enjoyed themselves, creating a vibrant ambiance filled with animated discussions and contagious laughter.
Our afternoon was filled with delight as we gathered in the lounge to watch Royal Ascot on the expansive TV screen, immersing ourselves in the excitement of the event. Meanwhile, a few of us took to the vegetable garden, tending to the plants with care and dedication. The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air as others sat down to paint pebble markers, adding a touch of creativity to the garden. It was a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and productivity, making for a truly memorable day.
Tinkerbell, our beloved PAT dog, joined us later to spread love and bring joy to everyone around. We made sure to engage in activities that resonated with their passions and interests, creating a special bond between Tinkerbell and our community. It was a heartwarming experience filled with affection and meaningful connections.
Our garden view lounges provided the perfect setting for a morning immersed in the world of magazines and books. As we settled into the comfortable chairs, we eagerly delved into a range of reading activities. Some of us were engrossed in the latest fashion trends, flipping through glossy pages of fashion magazines, while others were captivated by gripping novels that transported us to different worlds.
Our engaging busy boards offer a wide array of independent activities for us to enjoy. We relish the opportunity to spend quality one-on-one time engaging in challenging word puzzles from the busy board, all while having a blast testing our knowledge and skills.
While some individuals dedicated their morning to tuning in to the Sunday church service broadcasted from the nearby Church on the Heath, others embarked on a different endeavour.
We meticulously tend to our gardens, ensuring each plant thrives with watering, fertilizing, pruning, and weeding. Our unique planter markers add charm and elegance while serving a practical purpose.
Our weekly dementia-friendly service took place in the cozy garden view lounge, creating a warm and inviting atmospheres for all attendees. The sense of family was palpable as numerous family members gathered to sing hymns and songs together, fostering a strong sense of community and togetherness. It was a beautiful opportunity for everyone to come together and express gratitude in a meaningful way.
After enjoying a satisfying lunch, we choose to engage in activities that cater to our personal preferences and interests. Some opted to gather around for a friendly game of dominoes, where we challenged each other’s strategic skills and had a great time. Alternatively, we indulged in the soothing melodies of the piano. By opting for games and pursuits that align with our individual needs, we can ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable afternoon.
During our sensory challenge at Hill House, we chose to engage our sense of smell by hosting a charming herb and spice cocktail-tasting event among the vibrant flowerbeds.
Taking cues from the natural surroundings, residents concocted a range of cocktails featuring fresh herbs as the focal point. From the crisp Parsley-tini to the revitalizing Mint Julep, these flavourful drinks were shared with all in attendance, providing a moment of enjoyment in the tranquil afternoon air.
