RETIREMENT LIVING
Bringing residents together to connect, learn, laugh, engage and exercise, organised activities are the nucleus of life at local care and retirement homes A TIME TO THRIVE
W hen it comes to choosing a retirement or care home, the focus for many families is quite rightly on the standards of care provided, the quality of food, the comfort of the rooms and the ambience of the place. But there’s another aspect that’s perhaps equally as important: what is there for residents to actually do each day? As our local caregivers can attest, activities and excursions are imperative to quality of life. “They provide far more than entertainment – they help maintain independence, improve confidence, reduce loneliness and support both physical and mental wellbeing,” affirms Jo Molloy- Cruden, customer relations manager at Heathlands House in Cambridge. And for Wesley Ridgway, village manager at Rangeford Villages’ Strawberry Fields in Stapleford, one of the greatest joys is seeing owners embrace retirement and the opportunities it brings with enthusiasm, curiosity and a strong sense of community. “It’s a time to explore new interests, revisit old passions and enjoy more of what brings happiness,” he enthuses. So, what kinds of activities can residents look forward to? At Strawberry Fields, a varied calendar of events runs throughout the year, including fitness and wellbeing classes, arts and crafts, gardening, book clubs, quizzes and guest speakers. Meanwhile, regular excursions take groups to local gardens, theatres, historic attractions and seasonal events across Cambridgeshire, while themed celebrations and community socials bring neighbours together to create lasting friendships. “Everything we offer is shaped around the people who live here,” Wesley explains. “We encourage owners to share ideas
and feedback, so our programme reflects their interests while remaining inclusive and accessible. Whether someone enjoys staying active, getting creative or simply socialising over coffee, there’s something for everyone.” Over at Heathlands House, the weekly schedule includes gentle exercise classes, music sessions, baking, reminiscence activities, games, film afternoons and visits from entertainers, therapy animals and local community groups. Birthdays, seasonal events and cultural occasions are also celebrated throughout the year. “Our music programme consistently proves successful,” says Jo. “We have found that music has a remarkable ability to bring residents together. Those who are usually quiet or withdrawn often become animated when familiar songs are played: singing along, dancing or sharing memories connected to the music.” Regular excursions to local garden centres, cafes, places of worship, seaside locations and community events are also organised here, especially throughout the warmer months. “Everything we do is based on a person-led approach. No two residents are the same, so our activities programme reflects individual preferences, personal histories, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, hobbies and abilities,” Jo explains. “We also encourage resident feedback and continuously adapt the programme to reflect changing interests and abilities, ensuring every resident has opportunities to engage in activities they enjoy.” At the Cambridgeshire Care Home in Great Shelford, an activity and wellbeing team headed up by Tom Collen designs and delivers a weekly programme. There’s seated exercise classes, carpet bowls, prize bingo, painting, Knit and Natter, sing-
STAYING ACTIVE Excursions, group activities and hobbies are essential for giving residents a great quality of life
alongs, watch parties, pet therapy, Scrabble, Rummikub, bridge, cribbage, chess and one-to-one sessions, plus events such as themed lunch celebrations and larger parties (to which families and friends are invited). Meanwhile, outings have so far included trips to Shepreth Wildlife Park, Scotsdales and IWM Duxford.
We’re not here to change the lives our residents have built over decades, we’re here to enhance them
76 AUGUST 2026 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
Powered by FlippingBook