Surrey Care Home Residents Enjoy A Beach Trip

Residents at RMBI Care Co. Home Shannon Court, in Surrey, have recently enjoyed a day trip to the seaside. Accompanied by the Home’s Activities Coordinators, the residents were able to enjoy the weather, watch the boats and feed the seagulls at Southsea Beach, in Portsmouth.

“I was determined to dip my toes in the sand,” says resident Peter. “I had so much fun throwing pebbles! That’s what I used to do as a child.”

Spending time at the beach can have many benefits for older people. Moderate exposure to sunlight help their bodies make vitamin D, which helps boost the immune system. They are also able to unwind by taking in the scenery and hearing the rhythmic sound of the waves. Residents with breathing difficulties may also feel more comfortable at the beach, as it’s easier for their lungs to absorb oxygen.

The benefits for their mental health are also obvious. “These trips always spark some reminiscing,” says Kata Beauchemin, one of the Activities Coordinators. “It helps the residents bring back memories from their beach days when they were younger, which is fantastic for their mental health.”

Furthermore, out-of-home activities allow residents to have a presence in their local communities. Thanks to these initiatives, they are able to remain independent which has a positive impact on their wellbeing.