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January 14, 2020
We have some incredible landscapes within a short distance of our North Devon care homes. Ideal for spending time with an elderly relative out of their usual setting, many of these views can be accessed by the frail or wheelchair dependent. With Spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to wrap up warm, pack a thermos of tea, and go and enjoy these North Devon views together.
January 14, 2020
In our North Devon and Somerset care homes, we are experts at communicating effectively with those with dementia. However, for you, as a loved one of a dementia sufferer, it isn’t only a bewildering and confusing time for them. The relationship you had with them previously needs to adapt and change. This takes communication, but your previous methods may flounder.
December 18, 2019
Six in 10 dementia sufferers wander. When someone wanders they are put at greater risk. Confusion can worsen and they can become lost. Falls and accidents are more likely. It can cause distress in the individual but also for their loved ones and caregivers. Furthermore, while wandering tends to become more prevalent as dementia progresses, it isn’t limited to the later stages of the disease. In fact, it is most commonly experienced in the middle stages. However, sometimes wandering can be prevented, or at least predicted. Knowing what causes someone to wander and what can help is vital.
December 18, 2019
We are often asked by relatives what they should pack when their loved one is moving into a residential care home. This article is intended as a guide to help you prepare with confidence. Before your loved one moves in, it can be helpful for you to visit the particular care home they are moving to and see their new room for yourself. At Eastleigh, we have different residential and nursing homes in North Devon and Somerset. While each room is spacious and well-furnished, the dimensions and facilities differ slightly from one to another. By visiting the room you can get a sense of the available space as well as get to ask any questions of the on-site staff. Always […]
November 28, 2019
Celebrations can be a time of challenge for families with a dementia sufferer among their loved ones. However, they can also be a time to reminisce, which can provide nurturing care. It is difficult to know how to ‘get it right’. Each New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, we ring in the New Year with our wonderful residents in our North Devon and Somerset care homes. Here are our tips on how to successfully celebrate New Year’s Eve that we’ve learned over the years.
November 27, 2019
Whether it is because Christmas is just around the corner, or because there’s a birthday coming up, or you simply want to show you care, you may struggle to think of gifts for a relative in a care home. Here are our favourite suggestions for gifts which will be appreciated by those in a care home.
October 14, 2019
We often hear in the media about the importance of healthy eating. However, rarely do we hear about its importance in later life. However, what we eat becomes even more important as we age. Our diet can impact our cognitive function, determine our energy levels and help us fight off illness. Indeed, eating well can be seen as vital in our care of the elderly.
October 14, 2019
The festive season is nearly upon us. With it come excited children, decorations in our homes, gift buying, feasts and entertainment. However, celebrating Christmas when a loved one is in a nursing home can feel complex, bewildering or anxiety-inducing. This guide is designed to address the main concerns surrounding Christmas and nursing homes or residential care, including when your loved one has dementia. We look at ways to celebrate, adjustments you may need to make and even gift ideas.