Giving Back: Hertfordshire Care Home Opens New Activity Hub To Promote Resident Wellbeing
A Hertfordshire care home has opened a new activity hub for its residents in a bid to promote positive wellbeing and exercise – and to pay tribute to their admirable resilience throughout the pandemic.
Following the recently introduced Government measures, which permit two people per resident for indoor visits in care homes across England, Foxholes Care Home, near Hitchin, is intent on keeping spirits high after some long-awaited reunions with family members, by launching a brand-new indoor activity centre.
A scheme which promotes exercise, social interaction and entertainment, the recreation hub includes a cinema room, library, bar, communications booth, and pool table, providing residents with an array of activities to boost their physical and mental wellbeing. The library, in particular, will include a mobile book trolley and see the launch of the Foxholes Library Club, which will be run by the residents themselves.
The centre has been designed so residents can independently find something to occupy themselves with, whether it be playing a game of snooker, reading a book, playing the piano, making a video call, or just finding a place to socialise with friends and family.
In addition to the new activity hub, the Hitchin home has also built outdoor pods; The Foxholes Oval and The Foxholes Wheelhouse, which have been developed specifically for outdoor visitation and staff breaks and offer views of the horse paddocks and rolling countryside. Beyond the pandemic, the pods will provide a space for residents to take part in activities and spend time with their family, including for dining, celebrations, and birthdays.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult time for everyone connected with Foxholes, particularly for residents who had their regular and highly popular programme of activities restricted during the height of the lockdowns. The family-run care home believed it only made sense that the resilience and courage shown by residents in the face of adversity was suitably rewarded.
Neil Gandecha, Estate Manager at Foxholes, said: “We’re excited to be opening a new activities room and outdoor visitation area at a time where we’re gradually moving away from restrictions. They are our way of saying thank you to our wonderful residents, who have been absolutely fantastic during these unprecedented times. Residents can now spend quality and meaningful time with their family and friends while taking up some exciting new activities, too.
“Whether it’s going to the cinema, library or enjoying a game of pool together, the new centre will provide our residents with new innovative ways to enjoy quality time together with loved ones.”
