There were celebrations all round when the teams at two care homes in Bury St Edmunds welcomed the local community in for a day of art-themed fun and games.
The teams at Davers Court, on Shakers Lane, and Glastonbury Court, on Glastonbury Road, were joined by local people for Care Home Open Day, a countrywide initiative set up to develop lasting relationships between care homes and local communities, and to dispel common myths about care home life.
This year’s theme celebrated the role of arts within care, which is important in encouraging residents’ self-expression, and helps to create meaningful experiences.
Residents and visitors at Davers Court enjoyed an art-themed party with cocktail making and live entertainment from Nigel Woodmason, while guests at Glastonbury Court were treated to an exhibition of residents’ artwork and a tasty barbecue.
As part of a nationwide competition for all Care UK homes, residents at Davers Court and Glastonbury Court also developed works of art in the lead up to the open day, which were showcased at the events.
Sharlene Van Tonder, home manager at Davers Court and Glastonbury Court, said: “Care Home Open Day is a wonderful opportunity for our home to connect with the local community and show what it’s really like to live in a care home. We all had a brilliant time welcoming the people of Bury St Edmunds into Davers Court and Glastonbury Court.
“Singing, dancing and other creative activities can be powerful reminiscence activities, and our events certainly brought back a lot of memories. It was great to hear about the memories sparked by the genres of music the residents enjoy – and even learn a dance move or two!”
