At Hartwell Lodge Care Home and in fact all Buckland Care Homes, residents have a vibrant passion for travel and exploration. Whether it’s enjoying the crisp autumn air at local lakes or embarking on day trips to nearby cafés, libraries, or even the local Cricket Club, the opportunities for adventure are abundant. Trips often extend to the community as well, with outings to the Church Choir that uplift spirits and create connections.
However, understanding that not every resident can join these excursions due to health concerns, Hartwell Lodge has introduced an innovative programme called Armchair Travels. This thoughtful initiative ensures that everyone can experience the joy of travel and exploration without having to leave their seats.
Recently, residents took a delightful journey to Spain, where they sampled delicious Spanish figs and honey sourced from the Algarve. During this enriching experience, they learned fascinating facts about Spain while watching beautiful videos showcasing some of the country’s most scenic locations.
The Armchair Travels programme has previously whisked residents away to Italy, where they indulged in a variety of sweet treats, learned about iconic regions such as Sicily and Tuscany, and even pretended to sip espresso on the bustling streets, all while enjoying delightful Italian music. As a special treat, Tiramisu was served after lunch, adding an authentic touch to the experience.
The inaugural Armchair Travels adventure took residents to Greece, complete with an array of sweet and savoury Greek delights, lively music, and enchanting videos highlighting the beauty of the Greek islands. To cap off this engaging session, residents enjoyed a screening of Mamma Mia 2, bringing a little taste of Greece right to their home.
The excitement doesn’t end with travel. If residents can’t venture out into the community, the community comes to them! Sunday church services, lively harvest festivals, and themed shows and events fill the calendar with engaging activities. Themed pub quiz nights and Friday evenings featuring fabulous entertainers ensure that there’s never a dull moment. Additionally, educational talks, such as recent presentations on submarines and badgers, cater to a variety of interests, providing a rich learning environment.
Hartwell Lodge Care Homes is dedicated to ensuring that residents feel connected to the wider world and community, no matter where they are. Through exciting travel experiences, engaging community events, and thoughtful initiatives, every resident is encouraged to live life to the fullest, exploring new horizons and enjoying meaningful connections along the way.