Tag: care home

Local care home celebrates Carers Week with holistic therapy and breakfast treats

 Strachan House care home, in Blackhall, has celebrated the launch of Carers Week in style. Carers week celebrates carers both paid and unpaid for the amazing work that they do and raises awareness of the benefits and challenges of carers nationally.  

Staff began their week with a celebratory breakfast provided to all carers with something delicious to start the day. Day shift and night shift came together to celebrate each other.

Staff were then treated to a range of Holistic therapies provided by the wonderful Lisa from Positive flow therapies. Staff and residents alike were given head massages, hand massages and reflexology where they felt this would be beneficial. 

Strachan House has built up a great relationship with Lisa following her support assisting the loved ones of residents during difficult times and can’t wait to utilise her services throughout the home. 

General Manager, Fran Fisher said: “It is important to recognise the hard work of our staff here at Strachan House.

“The staff here work tirelessly to ensure all the residents are cared for to the highest possible standard, they take everything in their stride and deserve the very best rewards from us”.

Lisa from Positive Flow therapies provides a range of holistic therapy and believes that massage is not a luxury but Self-care. 

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals.

Strachan House provides nursing and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Luxury Scottish care home opens its doors to families 

Open day offers first-hand insight into home more akin to a lux hotel

FAMILIES are being given an opportunity to visit Scotland’s most upmarket care home as it opens its doors for the public to see its “luxury hotel” facilities.

Taking place on June 8th between 10am-2pm, Cramond Residence is set to host a family-friendly day featuring arts and crafts for kids, along with homemade baked goods, teas, and coffees.

The day aims to give those looking at care options a glimpse into the home’s world-class amenities including a private cinema, library, salon, and bespoke therapy areas.

It will also allow guests to find out more about the nurse-led care provision and expertise in supporting residents living with forms of dementia.

Christian Daraio, Client Liaison Manager at Cramond Residence said: “This open day will be the perfect occasion for families to witness first-hand the comforting, homely atmosphere that we pride ourselves on.

“Our open days are always an enjoyable experience for both our team and those who come to see us.

“We have a fun-filled day planned with plenty of arts and crafts to entertain the kids. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy a cup of coffee and some delicious baked goods from our incredible kitchen team, while our specialist staff will be available to answer any questions you might have about our home.”

Set in a purpose-built facility that represents a £8m investment, Cramond Residence boasts small group living in nine distinct houses. Each house provides a nurturing environment where residents can socialise, dine, and engage in activities, contributing to a vibrant community life.

The residence not only offers a high staff-to-resident ratio but also features advanced dementia care within its general setting or in a specialised area tailored for those in more advanced stages of the condition.

Christian added: ” At Cramond Residence, residents can look forward to exceptional care in an environment designed for them to thrive during their golden years.

“Our fantastic lifestyle team constantly arranges wonderful activities, ensuring there’s always something to look forward to. The residence itself offers a warm, homely feel that provides comfort to those who stay with us.

“We’re excited to welcome guests into our home and address any questions they may have. Choosing a care home is a significant, life-altering decision, and our team is here to help ease any concerns, providing the information needed to make this important choice with peace of mind.”

Cramond Residence offers a wide range of activities tailored for dementia care, enhancing residents’ quality of life and providing relief and support through specialist facilities and trained staff.

For more details on the open day or to learn more about Cramond Residence, please visit Cramond Residence’s website or contact them directly at enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk.

Dementia care experts to hold open day for families

SCOTLAND’S most luxurious care home is set to host an open day where members of the public are invited to come and experience an exclusive tour around its premises.

Dementia care experts, Cramond Residence is urging members of the public looking at care facilities to come and view its world-class facilities between 4 – 8pm on 2 May.

Guests will be led by professionals around its facilities to learn more about the benefits of the home, its unique care packages, as well as learning more about how Cramond Residence Tailors care provision for each individual resident.

Client Liaison Manager Christian Daraio said: “It’s always great to welcome new people into our home and our open day offers an opportunity for those exploring care for a loved one to come and view our brilliant facilities and get a feel for what makes Cramond Residence unique.

“A stay at Cramond Residence is truly unique, we have a wonderful team who help to ensure that the residence delivers the best care while having a comfortable homely feeling.

“This is the perfect chance to soak in the residence’s warm and friendly atmosphere, and enjoy a cup of tea with some homemade treats, all while having access to our staff to ask as many important questions as they need.”

Cramond Residence is divided into nine individual homes, each named after an area of Edinburgh, fostering a sense of community among residents. Each home has private dining and living rooms, encouraging socialising and lasting connections.

Visitors can explore the main communal areas, including a dining room, library, private dining room, cinema, physiotherapy area, and hairdressing salon.

Cramond Residence also offers advanced facilities, such as high-tech therapy baths, to cater to the diverse needs of its residents.

The residence features beautiful gardens and a summer house, welcoming guests to wander leisurely and appreciate the scenic environment.

The home offers a unique set of activities for residents to enjoy, thanks to its Lifestyle Team, who offer day trips to landmarks such as The Royal Yacht Britania as well as Therapet sessions, relaxing joy rides down to Cramond Beach and much more.

For further information about Cramond Residence, call 0131 336 1064 or visit the care home’s website at cramondresidence.co.uk.

To get in touch directly, please email enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk.

Luxury care home offering top-notch healthcare for residents

Frequent GP appointments and in-house healthcare on offer for residents at leading home

A LEADING Scottish care home has revealed its residents currently benefit from some of the best healthcare in the country within a care setting, thanks to world-class in-house facilities and frequent GP checkups.

With research from the British Medical Journal showing that frequent, primary healthcare decreases mortality and hospital visits; dementia care experts Cramond Residence has prioritised its resident’s care by ensuring all of them have access to GP visits twice a week.

The home boasts some of the most extensive care in Scotland, providing its residents with top-tier facilities through its wellness and physiotherapy suite, an in-house GP, a room dedicated to Allied Health Professionals, and a gym.

Ross Bijak, General Manager of Cramond Residence said: “Usually, those who stay with us are dealing with complex health issues and we want to ensure that we provide them with the very best healthcare possible.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to be able to provide this to our residents, by offering frequent GP checkups we can ensure we are on top of any medical concerns and that our resident’s families can have peace of mind knowing that any issues are frequently monitored and managed.

“We believe we have one of the best care programmes in Scotland. We have a fantastic in-house nursing team and state-of-the-art facilities and this is further solidified by the frequent GP visits which our residents benefit from every Tuesday and Friday.”

Specialising in a comprehensive range of dementia care services, the home accommodates residents in both its communal living spaces and a dedicated section for those with advanced dementia needs.

The residence ensures optimal care through continuous assessment and a collaborative team of healthcare professionals, all within a setting designed to promote independence and well-being.

Ross added: “Our team keep the GPs updated about on any medical challenges that our residents face, and then after a thorough check-up, the GP’s insights help us update our records and fine-tune care plans to meet each resident’s unique needs.

“Everything we do happens right here in the comfort of the residence, so there’s hardly any disruption to the everyday lives of our residents. Plus, having the same friendly faces of doctors for check-ups brings a comforting sense of consistency and trust for both our residents and their loved ones.”

Since its opening in October 2018, after an investment of £8m, the Cramond Residence has championed the concept of small group living, emphasising social connections.

The residence offers a selection of activities designed for individuals with dementia, aiming to enhance their quality of life. Equipped with modern facilities and supported by a dedicated team, the home is committed to providing care, support, and respite for its residents.

For further information about Cramond Residence, call 0131 336 1064 or visit the care home’s website at cramondresidence.co.uk.

To get in touch directly, please email enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk.

Queens Manor visited by furry friend!

Queens Manor care home, in Edinburgh was full of animal mischief when eight week old Labrador puppy Derek came to visit recently.

Residents at Queens Manor were pleasantly surprised to see their new furry friend roaming around their garden & the home.

Shannon Cullen Senior Head of Lifestyle & Enrichment said: “Our residents have really enjoyed their visitor today.

“We are such an animal friendly home and we knew that having the Derek in to say hello would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult being away from their own family pets.

“We have found that having animals in the home gives residents something to look forward to, encourages them to engage in activities and sparks conversation which can lead to unlocking memories and emotions.

“We are always looking for new activities for the residents and today we have seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.”

Resident Audrey Rankin (above) was very excited by the Derek: “I have always loved dogs & have so much time for them – if I could, I would have Derek live in my room permanently!”

Queens Manor is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals. Queens Manor provides Dementia Care, residential care and respite care.

Dementia care specialists to host Open Day event

ONE of Scotland’s most luxurious care homes will open its doors to the public this week with an exclusive tour around its facilities.

Located in north Edinburgh, Cramond Residence is offering people the chance to view its high-end care home on Friday 15 September from 3pm.

Fronted by a guided tour, guests will able be able to enjoy home baking and a ‘cuppa’ as they learn more about the benefits of the home; from its care package offerings to its bespoke digital care systems – ensuring that all residents have their individual needs met.

Client Liaison Manager Christian Daraio said: “This Open Day offers a unique opportunity for individuals and families to explore the top-notch care and facilities offered by the residence.

“If you or a loved one are considering residential, respite, or recuperative care, the Cramond Residence Open Day is a must-attend event.

“Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the residence, enjoying a cup of tea and sampling delightful home baking, while also having the chance to ask any questions they might have.

“This event also provides a chance to meet the dedicated team as well as engage in conversations with our current residents.”

Cramond Residence is divided into nine individual homes, each named after an area of Edinburgh, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among residents.

With private dining and living rooms in each home, socialising and forming lasting connections are a natural part of life at Cramond Residence.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the main communal areas, including a spacious dining rooms, a well-stocked library, a private ‘fine dining’ room, a cinema, a physiotherapy area, and a hairdressing salon.

Additionally, Cramond Residence offers cutting-edge facilities, such as high-tech therapy baths, to cater to the diverse needs of its residents.

The stunning gardens and summer house also invite attendees to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Cramond Residence is proud of its commitment to providing a high quality of life to its residents and invites the community to witness it firsthand. There is no need to book in advance; simply come along on the day.

For further information about Cramond Residence, call 0131 336 1064 or visit the care home’s website at cramondresidence.co.uk.

To get in touch directly, please email enquiries@cramondresidence.co.uk.

Anyone For Tennis?

LOCAL CARE HOME RESIDENTS CELEBRATE WATCHING THEIR FAVOURITE SPORTING FIXTURE

Residents and staff at Queens Manor care home in Blackhall were at the ready for the start of Wimbledon finals on Saturday and Sunday, with delicious strawberries and cream, all washed down with a glass of Pimms or fizz! 

Tennis fans at Queens Manor were delighted to be able to watch this year’s 136th Championships.  Residents and staff got together to watch the matches and celebrated by having a themed day of events, with the Lifestyle Team whipping up traditional Wimbledon-inspired strawberry and cream treats. 

Donna Wood, General Manager at the home, said: “We’ve had a fantastic time celebrating the return of Wimbledon this weekend, it is always a firm favourite with our residents.

“Every game was on show throughout the home and we enjoyed every minute!”

Resident Audrey Rankin, commented: “I absolutely love watching Wimbledon, it is definitely my favourite sporting fixture. 

“It was lovely to celebrate its return with all my friends here and to enjoy all the delicious party drinks during the finals!”

Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.

Queens Manor is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals. Queens Manor provides residential care, respite care & dementia care.

Strachan House summer fete brings local community together

Staff, residents, relatives and the local community came together at Strachan House to enjoy a Summer Fete that was held in the home’s grounds on Saturday (15th July).

Strachan House hosted a variety of activities throughout the day, including a BBQ prepared by the talented chefs, live entertainment, face painting and balloon artist which were enjoyed by everyone who came to the event.

The local community police officer even came along to enjoy the afternoon, whilst the children got to enjoy sitting in his car.

Staff at Strachan House made everyone feel welcome and were delighted to see different generations having fun together. Visitors enjoyed a summer BBQ, prepared by the catering team, who were hard at work making sure that a great time was had by all – it really was a team effort!

Resident, Betty Munro said, “I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was surrounded by lots of great people, and the refreshments kept flowing.

“The weather wasn’t on our side but we had a fabulous regardless. Staff did a great job, not just on the day, but organising the event and getting everyone together.”

Gordon Philp General Manager at the home, said: “Staff at Strachan House are dedicated to making sure that the home is a hub of the local community, and this event, along with all their hard work, has definitely paid off. It was a resounding success!”

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 beds residents from respite care to long term stays.

Surprised resident marches the ramparts 79 years on

Alex Laird, a resident at Strachan House, can always be heard telling his stories of his days in the military, so staff at the home made those memories come back to life with a trip to Edinburgh Castle.

Alex has lived at Strachan House for a short time. Staff and residents love his stories of his days gone by serving in the Army. Alex started his military career in 1944 when he joined the Royal Scots Regiment. Shortly after in 1945 he got to volunteer serving with the Indian army in the 15th Punjab Regiment and is often heard telling others about his wonderful adventures as well as his cheeky antics he got up to.

One story that he shares is of when the war ended: “I was protecting the Bay of Bengal when we heard news the war had ended. With no TV, radio or newspapers I learnt over our comms system that the Germans had surrender some 24 hours beforehand.

“I remember looking at my watch it said 7am and thinking: that’s it, the wars over and at least for my friends their fight has ended. That same evening as darkness fell upon us I have vivid memories of me and my comrades singing in celebration, only to wake up the next morning to the sound of shelling as we continued our mission to protect the bay.”

Staff at the home saw how Alex was passionate of all things military and how proud he was to of served in the war, so staff wanted to ensure his heroic past was recognised .

The Royal Scots Museum houses an array of paintings, artefacts and medals from the formation of the regiment to its present day. So for Alex it was a real walk down the castle cobbled memory lane as he immersed himself in all the history that surrounded him with his visit to the castle.

In response to this wonderful surprise Alex said: “It was so touching to know my efforts during the war were appreciated. It is such an amazing feeling to know that staff recognised what was so important to me and cared enough to spring this surprise on me.

“What an incredible afternoon I had. It truly meant a lot to me.“

Gordon Philp, General Manager at the home, said: “We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Strachan House

“It was so nice to see how happy Alex was – and to be able to say thank you for everything he done for his country all those years ago.”

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Pet therapy brings paw-sitive benefits to Edinburgh care home

Four-legged friends provide companionship to elderly residents

AN Edinburgh home specialising in dementia care has launched a pet therapy programme to combat loneliness and improve general wellbeing.

A group of three different therapets and their handlers have been visiting Cramond Residence each on a monthly basis to provide companionship and encourage residents to be more active throughout the day.

Elaine Vallance, Lead Lifestyle Coordinator at Cramond Residence, said: “Our residents thoroughly enjoy therapets’ visits and we always know when they are in the building as residents all have a big smile on their faces.

“They all offer a calming presence when in the building, their visits always leave everyone in high spirits, excited for the next visit – the simple act of stroking a four-legged friend can slow down the heartbeat and reduce blood pressure.

“Pet therapy can provide a calming effect and help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

“Our visiting therapets are among the 500 registered therapets around Scotland, currently providing emotional support to elderly residents who cannot maintain the upkeep of a pet full-time.”

According to Alzheimer’s Society, caring for an animal can provide a sense of purpose and be a helpful stress relief source to individuals with dementia who may be struggling with depression.

The home understands the importance of interacting with animals and the benefits this has on emotional, physical and social wellbeing.

The furry friends visiting the home have proved major hits alongside the varied activities programme at Cramond Residence which includes day trips, gardening and arts and crafts, all designed to keep residents stimulated and engaged.

Launched in 2018, Cramond Residence offers uncompromising nurse-led care, as well as specialist services such as respite and dementia care. The care home currently has 74 residents spread across nine luxuriously-appointed homes.

Residential life is full of activities, freshly prepared meals and top-class facilities, ensuring that all residents enjoy a rich and satisfying life at the care home. The facilities provided include a cinema, functional exercise room, a games room and also a fine dining experience offering residents the opportunity to invite their family members in for a meal.

Each resident also receives a personal care plan from health care professionals which is continually assessed and revised, ensuring that residents have access to the best possible level of care.

Cramond Residence offers tours of their quality accommodation and facilities in the north of Edinburgh. The tour allows potential residents and their loved ones to see the residence for themselves, meet the team and discuss any additional requirements.

To find out more, call 0131 341 4037 or visit https://cramondresidence.co.uk/