Taking that first step into care
Making that decision to move into a care home is a big step. One that requires personal thought and the consideration of partners, friends and relatives.
Rita needed a helping hand and having discussed it with family and Encore Care Homes, it proved to be the right choice for her.
“I couldn’t cope in my flat on my own. I talked it over with my daughter and realised while on a hospital stay that physically I couldn’t manage on my own. She said, ‘Mum I think you’d be better moving to somewhere where you’re going to get regular care.’ It followed on from there and she got me to Fairmile Grange care home, which I might add is a beautiful place. I might also add that the care and wellbeing team are lovely people. They do a fantastic job,” said Rita, 95.
Confidence, independence and zest for life
Originally from Birmingham, moving to a care home was the start of an exciting new chapter in her life. Soon making friends with other residents and becoming affectionately known by the care team as a member of the ‘Brummie Belles.’
Living in a supportive environment has given Rita back her confidence, independence and zest for life. In September, Rita took part in a sponsored charity walk to help raise funds for the fight against dementia and it was the start of a newfound love for exercise.
Alongside fellow residents and care teams, Rita began walking laps of the garden area having been partly inspired by the extraordinary fundraising achievements of Captain Sir Tom Moore earlier in the year. Rita has continued her daily laps of the garden and care home.
A marked improvement in health
Kim Butters, Wellbeing Manager at Encore Care Homes’ Fairmile Grange said: “We often walk residents around our beautiful garden or the home. Our residents love to be outside and it’s a special time, having that one-to-one interaction of walking and talking. Rita in particular is now very active, which has made a marked improvement on her health and happiness.”
According to Rita, this would only be possible with the care that she receives at Fairmile Grange.
“The carers are fantastic, but the wellbeing team make you feel really special. When they’re with you and doing activities together, it makes you feel like you’re the only one. I can’t praise them enough,” says Rita.
“We talk and they’re more like friends. The other residents are also lovely. I go and have afternoon tea and cake in the lounge. The wellbeing team get the best china out for us, only the best for the Brummie Belles!”