RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is flying high at Hartismere Place

Home news

Feb 06, 2017

Hartismere Place had its binoculars at the ready as it took part in this year’s RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

Residents from Hartismere Place, had a busy weekend observing the many feathered friends visiting the garden as they took part in the world’s largest wildlife survey between Saturday 28^th and Monday 30^th January.

The Care UK team also invited Claire Boothby from the British Trust of Ornithology, to join them for the event, who engaged residents in conversations about the wildlife in the local area.

Home manager, Marie Reeve, explained why Hartismere Place is one of several Care UK care homes that took part in this year’s RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch: “The birdwatch weekend is always popular with our residents, so we were delighted that Claire was able to join us to make this year’s event even more special. All the residents enjoyed spending time spotting the various garden visitors over the weekend, and learning more about the nature on our doorstep.

“Spending time outdoors is important for physical and mental wellbeing, and has many benefits for older people, particularly for those who are living with dementia. The sounds of bird song and the appearance of different species can help bring memories to the surface and act as a valuable reminiscence activity.”

To prepare the home for the event, residents also took part in making fat balls to provide the birds with vital nourishment over the winter months. The recipe for this can be found here: www.careuk.com/birdwatch.

Family carers can get advice and support on how to incorporate practical activities such as bird watching into their daily routines by downloading a copy of Care UK’s Good to go guide to help older people enjoy the outdoors.