Residents at three local care homes across Newark and Grantham have been experiencing life’s little adventures within the community, with several day trips designed to boost mental and physical wellbeing.
Groups from Red Roofs, Red Rose and Red Court, all part of the Red Homes Healthcare family, take regular trips – which include organised tours, afternoons at the park, trips to a local garden centre, and even simple pub lunches – as part of the homes’ commitment to helping residents stay active and socially connected.
The trips have been planned in consultation with the residents themselves, as part of a home-wide initiative to enhance quality of life, encourage social interaction, and bring a sense of adventure into their lives.
Two of the homes recently took a cruise in the Newark Crusader along the River Trent, giving residents the chance to connect with nature. The home staff say the sights, sounds, and smells of different environments help with mental engagement and emotional well-being, and that the gentle physical activities can help maintain mobility and stamina.
“Our group really enjoyed spotting wildlife and enjoying the scenic views,” said Joanne Brown, Manager at Red Rose Care Community. “As well as being really relaxing and a lovely chance to chat, we could tell that it gave everyone a real boost in mood.”
Research shows that taking part in social events and other activities you enjoy can support healthy aging, helping to boost wellbeing, resilience and independence as well as lowering the risk for certain health conditions. Those with dementia or other cognitive challenges can also benefit from taking a trip outside, as feelings of wellbeing stay with the person, even if they are unable to remember the activity itself.
Trish Smith, General Manager at Red Roofs, said: “In the Red Homes community, we understand the importance of creating meaningful experiences for the wonderful people in our home, and it’s a crucial part of our care strategy. Regular day trips offer far more than just a change of scenery; these outings play a vital role in boosting mood, reducing feelings of loneliness and, of course, having fun! We see a real sense of camaraderie as a result of these shared experiences.”
She adds: “It’s really important to staff that these wonderful people feel part of the local community, and that they get a change of scene and some mental and physical stimulation. We want our residents to maintain a sense of autonomy, and leaving the care home for an excursion can give residents a renewed sense of independence. Life’s little adventures don’t – and shouldn’t – stop just because you’ve moved into a care home.”
