Activities at Waterside Court Care Home

Staff and residents at Waterside Court were treated to a photographic tour and talk about the era of ocean travel by V&A Dundee Curator, Charlotte Hale. The presentation forms part of a series of six talks and virtual tours that V&A Dundee is hosting for Barchester Healthcare’s care homes and private hospitals across the UK.

V&A Dundee is Scotland’s design museum, it showcases Scotland’s outstanding design achievements and features world-class exhibitions alongside the permanent Scottish Design Galleries, and a changing programme of commissions, events and activities.  

Charlotte’s presentation took residents on a journey through V&A Dundee’s inaugural exhibition Ocean Liners: Speed and Style. Though the golden age of ocean travel has long since passed, the ocean liner still remains a potent symbol of 20th century modernity. The talk explored the romantic and remarkable age of ocean travel through the design stories of the Titanic, Normandie, the Queen Mary and the Canberra, from their engineering and interior design to the creation of an aspirational lifestyle and the stunning fashions worn on board.

Charlotte said: “I am delighted to be able to share this exhibition with Barchester’s residents.  The era of ocean travel is such an important slice of our history, the world will never see the like of these ships again.  It is wonderful to be able to pass on the stories of how the ships were designed and what life was like on board".

To really complete the experience, residents were able to put their feet up as they watched this virtual voyage in one of our comfortable lounges. There was, of course, afternoon tea and home-made cake served too!

A common question people ask when looking at care for a loved one is whether alcohol is allowed in the home. The answer is: "Absolutely".

If mum/dad enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or a sherry in the evening, that preference doesn't need to change. Waterside Court offer person-centred care, which means that individuals’ likes and dislikes are taken into account and maintained when they move in. This includes meal and drink preferences, activities, daily routines and every other aspect of their life.

The weather might not be behaving itself, but that hasn't stopped residents at Waterside Court from planting seeds for our lovely new garden.

Planting seeds is a great way to keep our green-fingered residents engaged and motivated. It's also a wonderful way of keeping social and motor skills active.

We had a great time with our Meet the Manager event. General Manager, Roxana Moldovan, and her team were on hand to talk to families about a possible move into care. We understand how big of a decision it is, so we are always happy to offer help and support to those who need it.

Roxana said: "There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a care home for someone you love. The decision has only been made harder with the pandemic, so my team and I are more than happy to help with any questions or talk through the different options that are available and best for you. Meet the Manager events are lovely opportunities to be able to do this, but we do also offer show rounds on a 1:1 basis."

If you have a question about a move into care, or know of anyone who needs support, please get in touch with us on 01491 821 080.

Residents at Waterside Court had a fun-filled day celebrating VE Day. Residents started their morning by listening to live singer, Emily Yarrow. Thanks to the recent change in government guidelines, Waterside Court were able to welcome Emily to the home to sing live, a refreshing and welcome change since March restrictions last year. Emily sung an array of songs from the 40s, 50s and 60s that had residents singing along and dancing. Residents were then treated to a lovely lunch and home-made cakes in our wonderfully decorated, themed dining room.

May Kidner, Activity Coordinator at Waterside Court, said: “It was so lovely to be able to provide live entertainment for residents again. It was wonderful watching them singing along and dancing to familiar songs. We also had a fantastic time at lunch with our themed hats and cakes. I’d like to thank Waitrose of Wallingford for their generous donations to help us celebrate the day.”

Residents at Waterside Court enjoyed some refreshing mocktails, lovingly made by our Activity and Kitchen Teams.

Cinco de Mayo, (or the fifth of May) is a holiday that celebrates the date of the Mexican army’s May the 5th 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. The day is also known as Battle of Puebla Day. Although a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States it has evolved into a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American population.

Activity Coordinator, May Kidner, said: “It’s always lovely to celebrate different cultures and holidays. Our residents enjoyed learning about Cinco de Mayo and a refreshing drink was the perfect way for residents and staff to celebrate together.