Broadwater Lodge and Jubilee House residents flock together for birdwatch

Home news

Jan 25, 2019

Residents at Jubilee House and Broadwater Lodge have their binoculars at the ready ahead of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

Preparations are underway, as Broadwater Lodge and Jubilee House, gear up to take part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey from Saturday 26th January until Monday 28th January.

Residents at Broadwater Lodge will be taking part in a variety of activities related to our feathered friends, including making bird feeders and spending time in the gardens to record the different types of birds. They’ll keep track of many they have seen throughout the day and put the information onto a graph to be displayed.

Jubilee House has also invited art therapy group, Creative Minds, to join them for the occasion, who will be leading a bird watching art session. 

2019 marks the 40th anniversary of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, which encourages people nationwide to count the birds in their gardens to allow the charity to monitor trends and understand how different species are doing. Data from over half a million people is then compared year-on-year to provide a ‘snapshot’ of bird numbers across the UK.  

Home manager at Broadwater Lodge, Angela Bookham, explained why taking part in the Birdwatch is important for residents: “It may be one of the first events of the year, but the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is always a highlight for residents and team members alike! 

“Spending time outdoors and connecting with the nature around us can prove to be beneficial for both the physical and mental wellbeing of older people – particularly those living with dementia. While it is a calming, peaceful activity, the distinctive sounds and vibrant colours of the garden are also great for providing sensory stimulation for residents.”

Totka Zhelyazkova, home manager at Jubilee House, added: “We’re delighted to be taking part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey once again this year, and to be playing our part in such an important study. We’re also looking forward to welcoming Creative Minds to the home to help us capture the wildlife we see in art form!”