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
Cowboy Day
Wild west themed activities were arranged to mark the day.
Fun and laughter with Cowboy themed jokes in the morning as our residents enjoyed one to one time. Next was Armchair Pilates sporting cowboy hats! Followed by a Western Films themed quiz, which led to reminiscing about Clint Eastwood, The Good. The Bad and the Ugly, Butch Kassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Oh I do like to be beside the Seaside
Age is not a barrier to adventure.
A wish for ‘Fish and Chips at the Seaside’ was recently expressed and so the Cedars team made it happen. We celebrate and recognise our staff who bring to life our vision to ensure our residents continue to enjoy their hobbies and interests. A traditional British day out with sunshine, ice cream, and the sand between your toes was enjoyed, what could be better?
Summer Boat Trip
While reminiscing about holidays Terri mentioned that she loved boats trips when she was a young girl.
“My dad took us on holidays in late September, to Coleyn bay, when the sea nice and warm. We went on lots of boat trips and I would love to do another one”.
Thank you to Alison MacGregor Solent Dolphin and the lovely captains Chris and Derek or an amazing trip from Hythe Marina up the Itchen River.
Terri said “It’s been the best afternoon in donkeys years.”
Pupp Cuddles
Residents and their families were treated to a visit from six, three week old cocker spaniel puppies. The delight the pups brought to our resident’s faces was a joy to witness.
Memories of treasured pets were triggered and tales of pet parenting were exchanged.
Each resident exclaimed in delight as they realised the puppies were real, and delighted in hugging stroking and kissing them.
Val told us about her Cairn terriers and how she has supported the Dogs Trust with donations over the years.
Celebrating school visits
The children from a local school visit our residents on Fridays. They play board games, bingo and their favourite, table football.
Intergenerational interaction has numerous benefits for all involved. All generations have a lot to both teach and learn from each other. It tackles issues around stereotyping and ageism and increases understanding and respect between older people and younger people
When our residents heard the children had finished their SATs they wanted to congratulate them and settled on the gift of cake!
Helen and Angela from the Cedars team popped into the celebration assembly at the school and delivered delicious home made cake, baked in the Cedars kitchen.
It was gratefully received!
Green Fingers on a Sunny Day
Teamwork makes the dream work in our beautiful gardens.
Marian, our resident watering enthusiast, enjoyed planting petunias, lobelia, fushias and hydrangea. She said "how lovely to be out here in the sunshine with such a bright blue sky".
Brian, one of invaluable maintenance team, was joined by a number of enthusiastic residents, they all chattered about gardens they had enjoyed in the past and named every one of the plants.
A great opportunity to exercise those green thumbs and to chat with friends. Some were getting their hands dirty, others enjoyed observing whilst enjoying tea and biscuits. Fresh Air always lifts the spirits.
