Activities at Lochduhar Care Home

North West nursery visited the residents at Lochduhar Nursing Home. Both generations working together has a huge benefit to both age groups. The residents and children’s confidence has grew as they work together, doing different activities. There was a wide range of activities such as parachute games, arts and crafts, planting, telling stories and sharing their favourite songs with one another. Through these fun activities, both generations were able to pass on their skills and experiences.

One resident said to the nursery teacher “This gives me a boost and new lease of life”.

The nursery teacher Lorraine Murdoch said “The children can’t wait to come back and always say “When are we going back to the big house to see the ladies and gentlemen?”. She also said “ It’s great to see their confidence grow each week and the children getting to know the residents well”.

Residents and staff of Lochduhar marked their annual shrove Tuesday tradition by hosting their annual pancake race with the children from St. Teresa’s Primary School. This popular fun-filled activity sees the children competing against the home by racing the staff round the carpark while flipping pancakes in the air.

Residents were outside, cheering everyone on! It was a great event and enjoyed by everyone! Winners of the race were presented with a prize by the homes acting General Manager Gill.

Gill said “It was a very positive and uplifting event. It was great to see the interaction between staff, children and residents. A great time had by all and we look forward to seeing the children again soon”.

Love was in the air  at Lochduhar as residents celebrated Valentine’s Day surrounded by their loved ones, flowers, cards and sweets in celebration of the most romantic day of the year.

Staff, residents and guests started their celebration of love with a family and friends valentine’s themed cocktail party and live entertainment with popular vocalist, Gary Shanks. Carer, Adam even turned waiter for the afternoon to the delight of everyone. The day was full of romance, messages of love before taking to the dance floor to sing and dance as Gary performed a medley of love songs.

Operations Manager, Farai Hanyane said: “This week has shown us all that you are never too old for love. We’ve had a whole range of treats and Valentine’s themed fun for the individuals that live here and their guests and we have enjoyed every moment of it!”

Residents at Lochduhar celebrated World Chocolate Cake by day getting into the spirit of baking chocolate cupcakes. Once their cake mixture was ready, cases were filled and put in the oven. 

Residents relaxed and enjoyed a cuppa and chat, discussing the different cake flavours and their favourite ones.

The residents really engaged with this activity and enjoyed mixing the ingredients, helping each other. One resident said while eating her chocolate cake: “This is the best part”.

Residents at Lochduhar have recently started a book club due to their shared love for books. The home have linked with their local library in Dumfries, who provide different books for them to explore.

The library visits the home every 3 months to change the books over, so there is a good variety. The book club, part of our monthly calendar, is also a fun event where residents can socialise over a cup of tea or coffee!

Residents at Lochduhar care home, in recently enjoyed interactive evening in the home with a visiting group of local community police cadets. The home welcomed the group of cadets to enjoy music, games and activities with residents at the home. The catering team at the care home provide a selection of delicious treats for all to enjoy.

Operations Manager, Farai Hanyane said: “The residents at our home had a lot enjoying our wonderful evening with our group of young visitors. The cadets were able to show us what they learn in their cadet training and heard stories from our residents from their younger days. If anyone ever wants to stop in for a lovely afternoon with our Residents, or just for a cuppa and a break, we’d love to have you join us.”