Tag: care home

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/

Care home starts next chapter with  new  activity launch

Weekly book club ignites imagination and creativity among  elderly residents

BOOK-LOVING pensioners at an Edinburgh care home are keeping their minds young and agile with the latest social activity introduction.

The new weekly club at Cramond Residence gives the home’s book worms the chance to engage in open conversation about a host of genres – some of which cover stories from their childhoods and gripping new novels that exercise the brain.

Elaine Vallance, newly promoted Lifestyle Team Leader, said: “Not only does reading help increase our residents’ cognitive skills, but it can also reduce stress and help improve sleep.

“It’s a fantastic form of entertainment and a great exercise for stimulating the brain, which can be particularly beneficial for our residents with dementia.

“Our weekly book club encourages independent reading, as well as the articulation of thoughts and sharing of opinions with a group of similarly minded people.

“The club is a great way of encouraging our residents to stay social and we have experienced that even some of our less talkative residents have been willing to engage in a common topic of conversation.

“We take the time to read to those residents who can’t do so and you can tell by the big smiles on their faces how much they appreciate the simple art of storytelling.”

Cramond’s book club takes place in the home’s luxurious and comfortable lounge facilities, offering views of the expansive gardens year-round.

In addition to the weekly clubs, Cramond Residence has a private library that is well-stocked with books of different genres that residents are free to borrow and return at their leisure.

Client Liaison Manager, Christian Daraio, said: “Cramond has the unique advantage of having five-star facilities that aren’t usually synonymous with a care home.

“Our residents love making use of the library and our weekly book clubs have proved to be very popular.

“We even have plans to invite authors along to the club in the near future to engage in conversations with the residents. We aim to make the club highly educational and a great knowledge builder.

“The mental and physical benefits you can experience from reading last a lifetime and can keep an elderly brain active and engaged, possibly even delaying the onset of dementia through the strengthening of memory retention.

“Not only that, but these group activities that we pride ourselves on here at Cramond are an excellent tool in fighting loneliness and social isolation.”

Cramond Residence offers a vast array of activities to its residents on a daily basis, with the weekly book clubs being one of the latest additions to the home’s bustling monthly rota.

Residential life at the care home is full of unique activities, as well as 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, a 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.

For more information, visit: https://cramondresidence.co.uk/

Local care home resident relives her night ‘on the toon’!

Audrey Ross move to Strachan House just over a year ago. Being a primary school teacher in Aberdeen for many years she loved nothing more than meeting up with her girlfriends on a Friday night for a good catch up in her younger days.

She often talks about her nights just sitting, sharing her laughs of the weeks gone by with her friends and reminiscing over their life adventures together. It was clear that she held very fond memories of her younger days and missed those days so much. Through reminscence and one to one sessions she could be often heard explaining about “how friendships are important and must be nurtured and never taken for granted or forgotten “.

So with a combination of what was important to Audrey and of course her love of  curries the team jumped into action and recreated a special moment for her with their Gone Fishing 23 project.

Audrey was joined by another resident that she really enjoys spending time with in the home and the surprise on both their faces when Audrey realised she was in for the night of her life.

The team did some community engagement with a local business in Blackhall called The Cove.

Local Indian restauranteur Jahedd upon hearing her story was quick to jump on board and support the team in making Audrey enjoy a stroll back down memory lane. Jahedd was able to give Audrey and her friend an evening to remember by offering them the VIP experience in his beautiful establishment.  

Audrey and her friend Isobel were whisked away to The Cove where they enjoyed a fine selection of Indian cuisine along with an evening fondly sharing their life stories and adventures together. 

Mandy Head of Activities said: “It was an amazing night for Audrey. She was in disbelief of what we had organised not to mention surprised. Our Gone Fishing 23 project is partly about the element of surprise but more importantly it’s about recognising our residents as individuals, along with their desires and more importantly recognising what’s important to them. ”

“The local community support has been amazing and it is humbling to see how much attention our project has received. We can’t thank The Cove enough for the amazing night they gave Audrey and her friend.” 

In response to this wonderful surprise, Audrey said: “I was astounded. It was so amazing to see how others picked up on what was important to me and for them to go out of their way to make me feel so special.

“It truly was like a good old Friday night just as I remember them and they even got my favourite cuisine right. Ten out of ten!”

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 Audrey was – our staff love making moments like this happen in our project”

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.