Residents of Colten Care’s dementia care home Fernhill in Longham enjoyed a visit to nearby High Mead Farm, their chosen charity of the year, which involved reminiscence, community involvement and hands-on activities.
The group spent the morning strolling through the farm’s beautiful gardens and stopped to cuddle the adorable pygmy goats, were followed by curious chickens and the farm’s magnificent cockerel before discovering the guinea pigs and ferrets.
After their sunny stroll, everyone relaxed in the gazebo with packed lunches and cups of tea. They were soon joined by Badger the pig, who happily stretched out in front of the group, soaking up lots of well-deserved belly rubs.
The afternoon saw residents lending a helping hand by potting up radish, spinach and mixed salad leaf seeds for the farm.
Companion Natalie Holden enthusiastically got her hands dirty while resident Vivienne Marlow carefully planted the seeds with a smile.
There was also plenty of laughter when companion Elizabeth Carpenter set herself the challenge of catching a chicken for a cuddle. Once she succeeded, everyone gathered to meet the feathered friend, who soon settled down and peacefully fell asleep in her lap.
The visit was especially meaningful because it reflected residents’ individual interests and life experiences, as well as creating lasting memories.
Animal lover Pauline Oliver enjoyed reminiscing about keeping chickens and guinea pigs as she met the farm’s animals, while Vivienne, who has a passion for gardening, was delighted to get involved in planting vegetable seeds.
Pauline said: “That guinea pig looks just like the one I used to have. It brought back such lovely memories.”
Vivienne added: “It was wonderful to be planting vegetables again. I got very muddy, but I loved every minute!”
Lorraine Bell, Home Manager at Fernhill, said: “The visit provided residents with a valuable opportunity to remain connected with their local community while actively contributing to life at the farm.
“By potting up seeds for future vegetable crops and feeding corn to the chickens, residents enjoyed meaningful, activities that encouraged interaction with the animals and natural environment.
“Their contributions also supported the farm’s ongoing work, making the day both enjoyable and rewarding for everyone involved.”
High Mead Farm is a supported work environment for those with disabilities, and assists those suffering from mental health issues and those recovering from illness
Founded more than 35 years ago, multi award-winning Colten Care owns and operates 21 care homes in Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex.
