From Middlesbrough to Munich, there’s no lengths we won’t go to ensure our residents at Longlands enjoy fun and meaningful activities.
That’s why we recently transformed our dining toom into a Munich beer hall for an Oktoberfest party,
Having been to the real Oktoberfest, Longlands Care Home Activity Coordinator Pauline Kirton decided to recreate the experience for residents.
Pauline and her fellow Activity Coordinator Joanne Wales dressed up as Kellnerin (Beer Waitresses) and served residents shandy from traditional German beer steins, as well as providing snacks such as pretzels and Lebkuchen (German biscuits).
The room was decked with German flags and traditional Oktoberfest music was played on the home jukebox.
Pauline says: “It was something very different, but the residents really enjoyed being transported to Munich for a few hours.”
Pauline and Joanne have completely overhauled the activity programme at Longlands, with the aim of providing meaningful and stimulating activities for the people in the home.
Pauline explains: “Traditionally, activities in care homes have centred around things like bingo and film afternoons, but at Longlands we have started to think creatively and come up with things that engage even more people.
“We like to get to know the residents before we plan any activities because it is important that we do things which match their hobbies or interests.
“We need to create a rapport with them, so we can tailor activities around their needs and which we know they will enjoy.
“So far, as well as Oktoberfest we have introduced Prayer sessions and quizzes and we are also looking to do more themed events, such as a Caribbean evening, activities around Remembrance Day or inviting schools in to sing Christmas carols
“There are lots of awareness days that now go on around the world, such as wear it pink day or pajama day, so the plan is to introduce more of these at Longlands.”
