Activities at The Cedars Care Home
Activities are the cornerstone of a wholesome home experience, and our Activities Coordinators are always putting their creative minds to the test by organising new and exciting social events for residents to partake in. Of course, we take into account the likes and dislikes of those we support, so if someone doesn’t feel like trying something new, there will always be something on offer to reflect their personal interests. For the people who may just prefer some peace and quiet instead, we also offer one-to-one time that can be enjoyed with a nice cup of coffee or just a simple chat – whatever they desire.
Angela Cawsey
My name is Angela Cawsey and I am 60 years young. I have lived locally to Cedars since 2011, firstly in Downton and more recently in Alderbury. In the past I have worked with mature people in their homes, and adults with learning difficulties in a number of settings. During lockdown I ran daily zoom sessions for wellbeing, including bingo and quizzes.
I enjoy spending time with people and helping them smile, whether on a one-to-one basis or in groups. When my children were young I volunteered as a helper at Boys Brigade and St John’s Ambulance which was very rewarding.
Other jobs I have enjoyed include, selling computers, an IT and Management Trainer, HR and Business Manager and my personal favourite, being Grandma to 8 grandchildren. I love music, craft, the outdoors and animals.
Read our brochure 'Life-enriching activities' for more information about life in our care homes.
Read our brochure
Activities and Events Partnerships
As part of our bespoke life-enrichment programmes, we host a number of live virtual events in the home on a regular basis through a number of partnerships with places of interest and world class performance companies
Life at The Cedars Care Home
Losing Ourselves in Literature
We welcome Dave and the Wiltshire Mobile Library to Cedars each month.
Research shows that reading helps improve capabilities such as memory, cognition, and attention span, especially in seniors. By strengthening memory retention, reading can actually slow the degenerative process of dementia and Alzheimer’s by keeping the mind limber.
Dave is a dab hand at searching for the books our residents request, from Thrillers to Animal studies, Historical Fiction to Architecture. He always goes the extra mile, in both how far he covers on the roads and the lengths he goes to to meet everyone's literary needs.
“Oh no he didn’t, Oh yes he did”
As part of our ongoing programme of theatre trips 8 of us boarded the minibus for a visit to Salisbury Playhouse to watch the Pantomime.
We had a fabulous fun filled time, not only was it a spectacular show, but as we attended a matinee, the theatre was full of children. One resident commented “Watching their reactions to the show was so joyful.” Mary had wanted to go to the Panto for years, her daughter is so pleased and said that her mum she really enjoyed the whole trip.
Malcolm's Variety Hour
For the second year we have hosted local children who are educated at home. Our residents on Memory Lane and the children were entertained by Malcolm, lots of fun and giggles for everyone.
WI Christmas Lunch
Christmas Lunch at the WI
Terri, Mary and Marian set off on the minibus this morning to join the ladies from Landford WI for Christmas lunch at Kimbridge Barn. Lots of smiles and Christmas wishes shared around the table along with delicious food and great company.
One of many festive trips out this Christmastime with Cedars Activities team, our wonderful pink ladies!
Squirrels, Brownies and Rainbows Evening Visits
Intergenerational care involves children visiting our residents at Cedars to socialise and participate in activities together. Activities take place to enhance the quality of life for our residents, but also has benefits for the children. Such activities give older people opportunities for socialising, mental and physical stimulation and emotional support. It breaks down stereotypes and promotes empathy and understanding between generations. It’s a beautiful way to create meaningful connections and enhance the quality of life for everyone involved.
A big thank you to Alderbury Rainbows and Brownies, Wellow Squirrels and Landford Brownies for helping us celebrate Christmas.
Alderbury Rainbows and Brownies helped us decorate Stars for the Christmas trees and sang us some Brownie songs.
Wellow Squirrels made a giant paper chain and sang us carols.
Landford Brownies helped us decorate baubles that will be used on our Christmas presents.
We love all their visits and wish them all a happy Christmas and look forward to seeing them in 2024!
Swimming Wish Granted
When Jean came for ‘Tea and a Tour ‘ at Cedars she got chatting with our General Manager Sam Humphries.
She told Sam how much she missed swimming and hadn’t been for ages. Sam had a chat with our Activities Coordinator, Angela and a plan was hatched.
Following the tour, Jean joined us for a respite stay to recharge her batteries, enjoying some TLC, good company, good food and the family atmosphere that exists here at Cedars.
During her stay, Jean, Sam, Angela and another Cedars resident, Val, hopped on our minibus and headed off to Romsey Rapids and enjoyed the Older Adult Lane Swimming Session.
The ladies had such a wonderful time in the pool and enjoyed a visit to the cafe afterwards.
Our mission is for our residents to flourish, enjoy life, continue with their hobbies and interests and we do everything we can to make this happen.
This year we have worked our magic to make our residents wishes come true……… Golf, Fishing, Swimming, The Races, The Theatre, Mottisfont Rose Garden, Fish and Chips at the Seaside, Boat trip….. the list goes on.
