Spring is always a special time at our homes, as the days get longer and the first flowers start to appear, you can feel the shift in mood almost immediately. For our residents, it means being able to comfortably spend more time outside.
For elderly people, sitting outdoors in winter for even a short amount of time is difficult. Cold temperatures affect older bodies much more than younger ones, and even wrapped up warmly, sitting still outside for any length of time can quickly become uncomfortable. So when spring arrives, and the temperature starts to creep up, it makes a real difference. The garden becomes a place to head to again rather than something to look at from the window.
At Westwood Care Home in Selby, a few of our male residents, John and Paul, have a particular fondness for a specific spot in the garden where they can sit and watch the trains go past. John can also often be found feeding the birds, and Paul likes to pick flowers to bring inside for the dining room tables. Simple things, but they matter enormously.
We also have a raised trough, and our cook, Elaine, loves to help the residents grow their own vegetables. Last year they grew radishes, lettuce, and spring onions, all brought to our kitchen and used in meals. There is something really satisfying about eating food you have had a hand in growing!
The health benefits of spending time outdoors are well-documented, and even more so for older people who may be less able to get out and about independently. Fresh air, natural light, birdsong and a bit of greenery all contribute to wellbeing in ways that are hard to replicate indoors.
We are lucky to have two lovely gardens, and we put a lot of care into getting them ready for the warmer months. The directors like to get involved too and help out where possible, but leave the skilled work to the professionals! We work with local grounds maintenance contractor Chris Speck of CCGS Property Maintenance in Selby, and with florist Katie Scott of Knapton Lane Flowers in York, both of whom do a fantastic job of keeping things looking their best.
We cannot wait for the sunny days ahead!
To find out more about life at our homes, visit ochrecare.co.uk or get in touch. We would love to hear from you.
