Activity Co-ordinators go above and beyond!

Despite these uncertain times, residents at Palmyra have said staff are keeping them entertained, helping them to stay in contact with loved ones and making sure they stay positive as possible.

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To keep spirits high and to overcome the challenges many services are facing during the Government lockdown regulations, staff at the residential care home have been keeping residents busy with a packed activity schedule.

Activity Co-Ordinator, David Valentine, has continued to roll out a schedule of activities for residents to enjoy, including smoothie making, virtual zoo visits all around the world, video games and colouring.

Keeping positive and managing the physical wellbeing of the people we support is vital to the service. During the week, David has set up exercise classes for everyone to get involved in, no matter their age or ability. For residents who would prefer to take part in an activity that is a little less strenuous there are colour in books and Wii games available to enjoy throughout the day.

One resident, Danny, who is used to going out for the day from early in the morning until teatime, has found the government lockdown restrictions challenging and a big change to his daily routine. To keep him occupied whilst staying indoors, Activities Co-Ordinator, David, set up a Wii console and a number of games.

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Drawings and paintings of rainbows have appeared in the windows of houses across the country and many Making Space services have got involved with the campaign, Palmyra being one of them. Artistic residents have been drawing on their creative talents and have decorated their windows to spread hope and thank the NHS, in a hope that the drawings cheer up passers-by and make people smile. Their motto is 'Stay Strong, Stay Safe'.

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Palmyra has proved that you’re never too old to go digital. Barbara, a resident who is 82 years old, has been using a laptop for the very first time during the lockdown.

She has taken the opportunity to do some digital drawings and is delighted with being able to do this. Stan, who is 92, is staying connected with his family using modern technology and has been video calling his brother, who is in his 80s, for the first time. As a group, the residents also video called Margaret, the previous service manager who has recently retired. It was lovely for everyone to see such a familiar face.

David has been encouraging residents to use modern technology to do things they would not usually do. Whilst they are not able to visit local landmarks, residents have been able to virtually visit zoos around the world as well as attend ‘museum live shows’.

Activity Co-ordinator, David Valentine said: “Naturally it’s worrying for everybody and these are really uncertain times, however we have a positive outlook and the wellbeing of residents is of utmost importance to us.

“We have been doing everything we can to make sure that residents maintain contact with their loved ones, they have been busy learning new skills and joining in a host of activities.

“It’s been lovely to see the smiles on residents’ faces whether it’s on a Skype call or joining in an activity.”

Registered Manager, Stephen Watson said: “When we walk in the door it feels the same as it has always been, but our activities coordinator David has been working hard so resident are still enjoying life and involved in enriching activities.

“Despite what is going on outside the resident’s spirits remain high.”



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