When people ask, “What does an activity coordinator do in a care home?”, they often imagine someone organising bingo sessions or arranging occasional entertainment.

The reality is far more important.

An Activities Coordinator plays a central role in supporting residents’ physical health, mental stimulation, emotional wellbeing, and social connections. They help transform a care home from simply being a place to live into a place where people can continue enjoying life, developing friendships, and finding purpose.

At Ivonbrook Properties, we recognise that exceptional care involves far more than meeting physical needs. Meaningful care home activities help residents stay engaged, connected, and fulfilled. A dedicated Activities Coordinator helps create these positive experiences every single day.

Why Is an Activities Coordinator So Important?

Moving into a care home can be a significant life change.

Residents may leave behind familiar surroundings, neighbours, hobbies, community groups, and daily routines. Without meaningful engagement, feelings of loneliness and isolation can develop.

This is where an Activities Coordinator becomes invaluable.

Through carefully planned, tailored activities, they help residents:

• Maintain independence
• Build friendships
• Stay physically active
• Exercise their minds
• Celebrate personal achievements
• Remain connected to their local community
• Improve confidence and self-esteem

Research throughout Health and Social Care consistently shows that regular social and recreational activities can significantly improve quality of life for older adults.

At Ivonbrook Properties, we see these benefits every day through our commitment to delivering outstanding care home activities.

What Are the Main Responsibilities of an Activities Coordinator?

The role of an Activities Coordinator is varied and dynamic.

Their responsibilities often include:

• Planning activity programmes
• Organising group activities
• Delivering one-to-one sessions
• Coordinating volunteers
• Running themed event celebrations
• Supporting residents living with dementia
• Building relationships with families
• Engaging with local businesses
• Connecting with the local community
• Monitoring resident participation
• Recording wellbeing outcomes
• Working closely with care staff

No two days are ever identical.

An Activities Coordinator must continuously adapt activities to suit changing resident needs, preferences, abilities, and health conditions.

A Typical Day in the Life of an Activities Coordinator

One aspect often missing from competing articles is what the role actually looks like on a daily basis.

A typical day may begin with reviewing the activity schedule and checking which residents may need additional support to attend sessions.

Morning activities could include:

• Chair-based exercise classes
• Newspapers and current affairs discussions
• Daily Sparkle sessions
• Gentle stretching groups
• Reminiscence activities

Lunch often provides another valuable opportunity for social engagement.

The afternoon might involve:

• Arts and crafts
• Quiz competitions
• Musical entertainment
• Gardening activities
• Baking sessions
• Group activities

Evening activities may include:

• Film screenings
• A dementia-friendly cinema experience
• Board games
• Social clubs
• Family visits

Throughout the day, excellent communication skills are essential. Residents, relatives, care staff, volunteers, healthcare professionals, and visitors all rely on effective communication.

How Activity Coordinators Create Tailored Activities

Every resident is unique.

A successful Activities Coordinator understands that one activity will not appeal to everyone.

This requires careful planning and observation.

For example:

A former gardener may enjoy planting flowers and maintaining raised beds.

A retired teacher may enjoy discussion groups and educational talks.

Someone who previously loved dancing may benefit from music therapy sessions.

Residents with limited mobility may enjoy sensory activities, crafts, storytelling, or virtual experiences.

These tailored activities help ensure every resident has opportunities to participate and enjoy meaningful engagement.

At Ivonbrook Properties, we believe personalisation is one of the most important elements of successful care home activities.

Supporting Residents Living with Dementia

Many care home residents live with dementia.

This creates additional responsibilities for the Activities Coordinator.

Residents living with dementia often benefit from activities that focus on familiarity, comfort, and emotional connection.

Examples include:

• Reminiscence sessions
• Memory boxes
• Music therapy
• Sensory experiences
• Gentle exercise
• Pet therapy visits
• Dementia-friendly cinema sessions

Many Activities Coordinators receive specific training in dementia care and dementia-friendly activity planning.

The goal is not simply entertainment.

Activities should reduce anxiety, stimulate memories, encourage communication, and provide positive emotional experiences.

Programmes such as Daily Sparkle are frequently used to support cognitive engagement and conversation among residents.

Building a Strong Community Within the Care Home

One of the most valuable aspects of the role is creating a vibrant community.

Residents who feel connected often experience higher levels of happiness and wellbeing.

Activities Coordinators help create these connections by encouraging participation and fostering relationships.

This may involve:

• Celebrating birthdays
• Hosting themed event days
• Organising seasonal festivals
• Running coffee mornings
• Creating resident clubs
• Inviting schools and community groups to visit

Relationships with local businesses can also provide valuable opportunities.

Local entertainers, schools, musicians, animal therapy providers, and community organisations can all contribute to a richer resident experience.

The strongest care homes are often those that remain active members of the wider local community.

Family Involvement Matters

One area frequently overlooked by other articles is the importance of family engagement.

Families are often a valuable source of information about a resident’s interests, hobbies, career history, and personal achievements.

Activities Coordinators use this knowledge to create more meaningful experiences.

Families may also be invited to:

• Attend special events
• Join celebrations
• Participate in activity sessions
• Share photographs and memories
• Help create memory boxes

This collaborative approach often leads to stronger resident engagement and improved emotional wellbeing.

At Ivonbrook Properties, we actively encourage family participation wherever possible.

Measuring Success Beyond Attendance

Many people assume successful care home activities are simply those with high attendance.

In reality, measuring success goes much deeper.

A skilled Activities Coordinator looks for indicators such as:

• Increased social interaction
• Improved mood
• Greater confidence
• Better communication
• Reduced isolation
• Increased physical participation
• Enhanced cognitive engagement

Even small improvements can have a significant impact on a resident’s quality of life.

Regular reviews help ensure activities continue meeting residents’ changing needs.

Skills Every Great Activities Coordinator Needs

Successful Activities Coordinators combine professional knowledge with personal qualities.

Important skills include:

• Excellent Communication Skills
  Strong communication skills help build trust and encourage participation.
• Creativity
  Fresh ideas keep activity programmes engaging and enjoyable.
• Empathy
  Residents respond positively when they feel understood and valued.
• Patience
  Building confidence takes time, particularly for new residents.
• Organisation
  Activity schedules, themed event planning, volunteers, and resources all require effective organisation.
• Positive Thinking
  Creative problem-solving helps Activities Coordinators adapt to changing circumstances.

Experience in Health and Social Care can also be highly beneficial, particularly when supporting residents with complex needs.

Why Activities Should Be a Key Factor When Choosing a Care Home

When comparing care homes, many families focus solely on accommodation and care standards.

While these factors are important, activity provision should never be overlooked.

Ask questions such as:

• Is there a dedicated Activities Coordinator?
• Are activities tailored to individual interests?
• How often are group activities provided?
• Are families encouraged to participate?
• Are dementia-friendly activities available?
• How does the home engage with the local community?

The answers often reveal a great deal about the overall quality of life residents can expect.

At Ivonbrook Properties, we believe meaningful care home activities are essential to creating a welcoming, supportive, and enriching environment.

What Does an Activity Coordinator Do in a Care Home? Final Thoughts

So, what does an activity coordinator do in a care home?

They do far more than organise entertainment.

An Activities Coordinator enriches daily life, supports wellbeing, encourages independence, promotes social interaction, strengthens community connections, and helps residents maintain a sense of purpose.

Through tailored activities, group activities, themed event planning, dementia support, family engagement, and excellent communication skills, they help create positive experiences that make a genuine difference.

Their work is often at the heart of a happy, thriving care home community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main responsibilities of an Activities Coordinator in a care home?

An Activities Coordinator plans, organises, and delivers activities that support residents’ physical, emotional, social, and cognitive wellbeing while helping create a vibrant community.

How do communication skills help an Activities Coordinator?

Excellent communication skills allow coordinators to understand resident preferences, encourage participation, support families, and work effectively with care teams and volunteers.

How does an Activities Coordinator build community within a care home?

They organise group activities, themed event celebrations, community visits, volunteer programmes, and social opportunities that help residents develop meaningful relationships.

What qualifications are useful for an Activities Coordinator?

Experience or qualifications in Health and Social Care are valuable. Additional specific training in dementia care and activity planning can also be beneficial.

How does Daily Sparkle support residents?

Daily Sparkle provides engaging content, discussions, and activities that promote conversation, mental stimulation, and social interaction.

What challenges do Activities Coordinators face?

Common challenges include supporting residents with different abilities, maintaining engagement levels, adapting activities, coordinating volunteers, and balancing individual and group needs.

Contact Ivonbrook Properties

At Ivonbrook Properties, we understand that outstanding care is about much more than accommodation. Our commitment to meaningful care home activities helps residents stay active, connected, and fulfilled.

If you would like to learn more about our care homes, our activities programme, and our resident-centred approach to wellbeing, please visit our contact page and speak with our friendly team today.

You may also like:

• What Activities Can Support Dementia Residents in a Care Home?
• Ageing with Grace: Exploring Care Homes in Matlock Derbyshire
• Dementia Symptoms – 5 signs to look for

Searching for care homes near me has become a common and important step for families across the UK. As people live longer and later life care needs grow more complex, finding the right care home close to family, friends and familiar surroundings matters more than ever. From Derbyshire villages to towns such as Chesterfield, Matlock, Wirksworth and Darley Dale, families want reassurance that nearby care homes can offer excellent care, comfort and dignity.

At Ivonbrook Properties, we work closely within the care sector and understand how crucial location, care quality and long-term suitability are when choosing a care home near you. A nearby setting supports continuity of everyday life while making regular visits easier for family members and extended family.

The growing need for care homes near you

The UK has an ageing population, and many older people require additional support as their lives and health needs change. While some families initially explore Home Care, there often comes a point where residential care homes or nursing homes provide the right level of safety, healthcare and companionship.

Care homes near me searches are often driven by the desire to keep loved ones within local communities. Remaining close to local shops, familiar streets and local amenities helps residents feel settled more quickly, especially those living with dementia or complex needs.

Understanding the different care home options available

Not all care homes provide the same care options. Understanding the differences helps families choose the right home.

Residential care homes

Residential care homes support residents with daily activities such as washing, dressing, mobility and meals. These homes focus on person-centred care and are suitable for older people who do not require constant nursing care.

Dementia care and specialist dementia care

Dementia care homes provide tailored support for residents living with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive conditions. Specialist dementia care focuses on safe environments, personalised care plans and activities designed to support memory, independence and wellbeing.

Respite care

Respite care offers short stays, giving carers a break or supporting recovery after illness or hospital discharge. These care services can also serve as a gentle introduction to life in a care home.

What to consider when choosing care homes near me

Choosing the right home is not only about proximity. Several key factors should guide your care home search.

• Location matters
  Care homes near you make regular visits easier. For families in Derbyshire, access to homes in Chesterfield, Matlock, Wirksworth and Darley Dale ensures continued involvement in daily life and decision-making.
• Care home cost
  Care home cost varies based on location, care needs and facilities. Understanding fees, tenancy arrangements and what is included helps families plan realistically. Local authority funding and means-tested support may be available.
• Level of care provided
  A clear care plan should outline how the home meets individual needs, whether personal care, nursing and dementia care, or specialist dementia care.

Services and amenities offered in quality care homes

High-quality care homes provide much more than accommodation. Comfortable surroundings, welcoming spaces and meaningful daily activities shape everyday life.

Typical amenities include:

• Assistance with personal care and mobility

• Social activities and outings within local communities

• Landscaped gardens and safe outdoor spaces

• Nutritious meals prepared on-site

• Access to healthcare professionals and nurses

• Communal lounges encouraging connection and friendship

Residents benefit from structured routines while still enjoying independence and choice wherever possible.

How to research and compare care homes near you

A thorough care home search involves more than reading brochures.

Visit homes in person
Seeing the environment first-hand helps families assess atmosphere, staff engagement and resident wellbeing.

Read inspections and reviews
The Care Quality Commission publishes inspection reports detailing safety, quality care and leadership. These reports provide reliable insight into standards across the care sector.

Speak to care teams
Open conversations with carers, nurses and the Home Manager provide clarity on how resident needs are met day to day.

Matching care homes to individual needs

Every resident is unique. Some require support with mobility, others need dementia-specific services or complex nursing care.

Personalised care plans allow care homes to support residents’ needs, preferences and lifestyles. Person-centred care focuses on preserving dignity, routines and independence while adapting as care needs change.

Families should consider:

• Medical conditions and healthcare requirements

• Social preferences and activity interests

• Dietary needs

• Cultural or lifestyle considerations

Preparing for the transition to a care home

Moving into a care home is a significant life change. Open discussions with loved ones help reduce anxiety. Visiting the home before moving in, meeting staff and bringing familiar belongings support emotional wellbeing.

Packing items such as photographs, favourite furniture or personal decorations helps a new home feel familiar and welcoming from day one.

Staying connected after the move

Remaining involved makes a positive difference. Regular visits, local outings and participation in activities help residents feel supported.

Care homes near you make this easier. Families often build strong relationships with care teams, carers and other residents, creating new extended families within the home.

Frequently asked questions about care homes near me

What are the available care options for individuals with dementia in care homes near me?

Many local care homes offer dementia care and specialist dementia care with trained staff, secure layouts and personalised care plans tailored to individual cognitive needs.

How can a thorough care home search be conducted?

A thorough care home search includes visiting homes, reviewing Care Quality Commission reports, discussing care services and comparing care home cost and amenities.

What is the difference between residential care homes and nursing care facilities?

Residential care homes provide personal care and daily living support, while nursing care facilities include registered nurses offering expert nursing care for medical needs.

Why is location important when choosing care homes near me?

Nearby care homes support regular visits, continuity of relationships and easier integration into local communities, improving wellbeing for residents and family members alike.

Care homes near Derbyshire communities

Across Derbyshire and surrounding towns, demand for care homes near me continues to rise. Access to trusted providers in Chesterfield, Matlock, Wirksworth and Darley Dale ensures families can find the right home without losing local connections.

Organisations such as Age UK also provide guidance and support for families navigating later life care decisions.

Why Ivonbrook Properties supports quality care homes near you

At Ivonbrook Properties, we understand what makes a care home feel like the right home. Quality housing, thoughtful design and proximity to local amenities play a vital role in delivering excellent care and supporting people’s lives.

We believe that care homes near you should offer safety, warmth and a genuine sense of belonging.

Speak to Ivonbrook Properties about care homes near you

If you are searching for care homes near you and want guidance rooted in experience and local understanding, speak with Ivonbrook Properties today. Visit our contact page to discuss care solutions that put people first and provide peace of mind.

You may also like:

• CQC Rating – Good
• Choosing a Care Home For Elderly Relatives
• Why Are We The Best Care Home in Derbyshire?

Selecting a care facility for an ageing family member can be a difficult and difficult undertaking. Finding a care facility that offers excellent care, a secure and welcoming setting, and a feeling of community is crucial. Here are five tips for families looking for a quality care facility in the UK:

Reputation and Regulation: In the UK, care facilities are subject to regulation by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which also offers data on the level of care delivered. Leading GP and author 

Dr. Jane Wilson-Howarth advises, 

“It is crucial to find a care facility that is licenced by the CQC and has a good reputation.” This will give you peace of mind that the care provided will meet the required standards.

Safety and Comfort: When selecting a care facility, residents’ safety and comfort should come first. Look for a facility that is well-kept, has excellent amenities, and has staff members who are trained to assist residents with their mental and physical needs.

Community & Social Activities: Senior citizens’ well-being can be negatively impacted by loneliness and social isolation. A care facility that gives people chances to interact socially, take part in activities, and interact with the community can improve their quality of life.

Services Offered: Take into account the services offered by the nursing home, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy. Verify that the staff has received the necessary training to assist residents with their unique needs. When you are choosing a facility it is worth paying an in-person visit to see how the care home operates and to see the atmosphere inside the home. Are the residents and staff happy, are they interacting, does it feel homely?

Personal Preferences: The care facility should accommodate the resident’s specific requirements and preferences. This could include observances of religion or culture, as well as individual preferences for pastimes or interests. Finding a care facility that recognises and values each resident’s unique requirements is crucial, advises Dr. Wilson-Howarth.

Finally, selecting a quality care facility for an ageing family member necessitates careful consideration of numerous factors. It’s critical to locate a home that not only meets the unique requirements and preferences of the person, but also offers high-quality care, a secure and welcoming atmosphere, and a sense of community.

Paying for residential care
Residential care in the UK has to be funded. In most cases, elderly relatives fund their own care. However, there are certain circumstances where care is funded by the NHS or your local authority.  Residential care homes have a range of pricing based on the services they offer.

in addition, you’ll need to be aware of the differences in the level of care offered.  does your relative require Nursing Care or Residential care?  Not all homes offer both services.  If you are unsure what type of care your relative needs speak to their GP. Alternatively, the homes can assess your relatives before booking them a place in their facility.

Sources:

• CQC (https://www.cqc.org.uk)
• Age UK (https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/care/choosing-care-services/care-homes/)
• NHS Choices (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/care-homes/) are three organisations that provide useful information on care facilities in the UK
• Paying for Residential Care in the UK (Age UK)
• NHS Continuing Care- Useful facts (Beacon)
• Attendance Allowance – Ease the burden of cost (Age UK)

 

 

Dementia symptoms may often be missed by friends or family but millions of individuals worldwide are affected by dementia, a difficult affliction. It refers to a mental decline that is severe enough to interfere with daily life and can take many different forms. It’s essential to recognise the warning signs of dementia in order to receive the appropriate care and treatment as soon as feasible. Following are five warning indicators to watch out for:

Memory Loss

Memory loss is one of the dementia symptoms that manifest early and frequently. Dementia may be present if you or a loved one is having problems recalling information they once knew or if they are forgetting things more regularly.

Communication Problems

Dementia patients frequently experience communication problems. Speaking, writing, or understanding what others are saying problems can be a part of this. It’s a good idea to get medical help if you or someone you love is having trouble communicating.

Mood or behavioural changes

Dementia patients may also go through behavioural or mood changes. This may include irritability, agitation, or confusion that comes readily. It’s crucial to seek medical help if you or someone you love exhibits unexpected changes in mood or behaviour.

Difficulty with Everyday Things

People with dementia may also struggle to complete tasks that they used to complete without issue on a daily basis. This can apply to activities like dressing, cooking, or driving. If you or a loved one is having trouble performing these activities, dementia may be the cause.

Disorientation

Disorientation is a typical dementia symptom. It may be an indication of dementia if you or someone you know has difficulties with their sense of time and location or is easily confused.

In order to receive an appropriate diagnosis, it is crucial to seek professional medical guidance because similar symptoms can also be brought on by other disorders.

Ivonbrook are Experts in Dementia Care

Here at Ivonbrook Properties, We are highly experienced in caring for people with Dementia.  In fact, we have a dedicated close care centre specially tailored to provide dementia-focused care service.

Your Local Care Service
Ivonbrook Properties is ideally placed to serve the local community in this part of Derbyshire. Based in Darley Dale, we are close enough to serve people from Chesterfield, Bakewell, Matlock and the Amber Valley.

If you would like to know more about the Dementia care services we provide please get in touch.

Here are some useful websites for learning more about dementia

NHS – Dementia
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/about/

Dementia UK
https://www.dementiauk.org/about-dementia/dementia-information/what-is-dementia/

Alzheimer’s Research UK
https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/

How to care for someone with Dementia. Tips and tricks from our home to yours

We at Ivonbrook Properties know looking after someone with dementia can be difficult at times and give a range of emotions, but it can also be extremely rewarding. We have years of experience with dementia and would like to take this opportunity to share some knowledge that might help someone who is struggling to look after a loved one at home; so here are our suggestions and guidance that may help.

Not All Dementia Is The Same

Firstly, it is important to understand that not all types of dementia are the same (there are over 100 different types) and researching and understanding the differences may lead to a better understanding of what your loved one is going through.

The four most common types are:

• Alzheimer’s disease,
• Vascular Dementia,
• Dementia with Lewy Bodies, and
• Frontotemporal Dementia.

  Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia accounting for 60% of all diagnosed dementias in the UK.  The most common behavioural changes are your loved one becoming upset, worried, or angry unexpectedly and easily with no clear reason as to why, losing interest in hobbies or activities that they previously loved, pacing around their home, and walking without a purpose and misunderstanding when people are attempting to communicate. The golden rule with dementia is “do not correct”.

  Lifting Their Mood

  If your loved one thinks that it is twenty years ago and they are still working or have children to look after, do not correct them, come up with a reasonable reason as to why they do not need to do that right now, like “it’s a Saturday, you don’t work Saturdays” or “the children are in school at the moment, we will go for them later”. This is their reality and trying to force them into ours can cause them unnecessary emotional pain.

  When low moods are presenting, try singing or music, this is good for them and can lift their mood at the same time, The Alzheimer’s society has some online videos like this one

  Click this link for more similar videos. “singing for the brain with Lorraine”.

  Musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged, meaning that songs from their youth can help them feel settled as they will remain familiar.

  Simple Tasks Keep The Mind Active

  When they are pacing around without purpose, you can simply ask them for help, for example, “can you help me fold this washing” or “can you help me dust these books”. It can help them with their cognition and daily living activities should always be encouraged, but more importantly, it will give them a purpose and help them feel less ‘lost’.

  Try and keep composure, we know it is difficult, but people with dementia can pick up on our feeling very easily and project them, if you seemed annoyed or panicked, they will feel this too. Try your best to keep smiling, it will mean the world to them.

  Give Yourself Some Credit

  And lastly, remember that you are doing an amazing job! We know It’s not easy, and it is much harder when our patient is someone you know and care about so deeply, We want to remind you that there is support out there.

  The Alzheimer’s society can be contacted on 0333 150 3456 and can offer advice or just someone to listen that understands.

  Emotional and practical support for families can be accessed via Dementia UK on 0800 888 6678.

  GPs should be able to offer advice and support and can also help you find local sources of support. If you are struggling, please reach out to any and all the Dementia support networks that you require.

Ivonbrook – Our Training Centre & Partners

Care work requires training if it’s to be done well. There is a lot of useful knowledge and useful experience gained whilst working in the care sector.   Everyday people who haven’t been trained in care techniques would be unlikely to have access to this valuable and vital information.  Ivonbrook Properties provide ongoing and continuous care training to all staff, not just carers.

The Carers Certificate:

All staff must complete a care certificate, this training is comprised of 15 standards that staff will learn.  The course gives staff basic knowledge on how to care for others. It teaches delegates skills such as Safeguarding, understanding the care role, and how to work in a person-centred way. In addition, It gives care staff the knowledge and confidence they require to excel in their roles.

At Ivonbrook this training is mandatory for all new starters, whether they are new to care or not, it is our belief that this is the best way to ensure standards remain at a high level, and our residents receive the best care possible.

The Dementia Bus

Having Dementia can be a confusing and scary experience for our elderly residents, whilst we can sympathise with our residents, understanding first-hand what it is like to live with Dementia is difficult for any non-suffering person

The Dementia bus travels the country and can be booked as part of care home staff training. It is a great way for care staff to gain some insight into how our residents feel and what they are going through.

The Dementia bus, equipment is used to simulate the dulling of some of our primary senses such as sight, hearing, and touch. Staff must complete basic daily living activities to be able to better understand why someone with this illness would struggle.

These sensory exercises give us an insight into not only how difficult everyday tasks can be for dementia sufferers, but also how this can affect residents emotionally. Using what we have learned using the dementia bus, we have found better ways to communicate with our residents and have learnt to not just rely on verbal communication.

Age UK, Training Partner

Ivonbrook Care homes are working closely with Age UK which provides us with in-person training, ideas and resources for activities which we can complete with the residents to help them in one of four ways. They will help the residents with:

• Cognitive abilities
• Creative abilities
• Self-image and
• physical abilities.

We then provide feedback to Age UK who can then in turn use this information to create or update their resources to help hundreds of other residents all across the UK.

NVQ in Health And Social Care

Ivonbrook Properties work closely with Chesterfield College to provide our staff with NVQs in health and social care. Starting at a level 2 and going up to a level 7.

Staff can work on this in their own time and are not pressured to complete the courses but are offered any support required. We have a tutor visit the home to complete observations that will assist staff in passing their NVQ and they will also have a full day in our training room, so staff can come in and discuss anything they need. Staff also know that they can use our training room as a quiet place to work on their studies if they require this. Our NVQs are fully funded by Ivonbrook properties, and any of our staff can sign up to complete one if they want to further their career.

FIRST AID for Carers

All our senior carers, managers, and administration team are fully trained in first aid. This training is delivered by Paramedical UK , it is a three-day-long intensive course that ensures that our staff are well equipped for any medical emergency that may arise.

Social Care TV For Social Care

Not everyone learns in the same way, some of us are better at learning by reading and others might need to be able to see it in practice. This is why to ensure that all staff have the best start possible, we provide online training through Social Care TV. Social Care TV is an interactive online video learning so staff can see not only what they need to know but also how this will affect things day today.

Leadership and Management Training For Care Homes

No matter how long we have worked in this industry, we know that we can all learn a little more, therefore our management team undergo regular ongoing training. This is to make sure management is offering the best support to our staff possible. It is very reflective and is also a space where the management team can look over their current practices and think about how this may be affecting staff and how they can improve.

Moving and Handling Training For Care Staff

No staff member is able to start a shift before they have completed their moving and handling training, this is done in person with a manager who will need to sign the staff member off as competent. This is to ensure that we are compliant with regulations and to ensure that our residents and staff remain as safe as possible.

Fire and Emergency Training for Care Teams

Staff are fully trained on what to do if the worst were to happen, this training is done in house and by external providers. These courses cover how to identify potential hazards, prevent fire outbreaks, reduce the risk of injury from fires and fire prevention.

Why are we the best care home in Derbyshire? : Ivonbrook Care Homes, Claire Wright.

If you’re looking for the best care home in Derbyshire,  it helps to have a checklist of a few key points to look for when selecting a place for your elderly relatives to live. All the tips listed in this article are part of the best practice used at Ivonbrook and Darley Hall.

Wellness For The Elderly

Wellness in the elderly can be promoted in a number of ways, such as regular exercise, activities, diet, and personal care. Wellness in the elderly is of paramount importance because when your mind, body, and spirit remain strong and you maintain healthy habits, you are less likely to develop chronic diseases and lower the risk of reduced mobility.

The following explains what we offer at Ivonbrook Properties to promote the different aspects of wellbeing.

Exercise Classes

When looking for the best care home, you’ll want to be sure that your loved ones are not being left to sit, but instead are being encouraged to “keep moving”.   We have regular exercise classes especially developed for the elderly every Monday, we then also have specially developed yoga classes that not only promote mobility but through meditation can help calm residents and promote healthy emotional habits.

Regular exercise can help residents remain independent for longer and studies have shown that it can help reduce the risk of heart diseases, high blood pressure and some forms of dementia.

When we age our bodies can decline in function and physical exercise can help slow that decline and help residents maintain a better quality of life.

Exercise can also improve mental health as it helps us produce endorphins, which acts as natural stress relief and leaves residents feeling happy within themselves.

A Balanced Diet

Nutrition is important no matter your age, but in the elderly, it can be vital. As the elderly’s bodily functions begin to slow, it is important to ensure that they get everything they need to remain healthy.

This includes diets that are rich in fibre, vitamins, and nutrients. Good nutrition can help prevent (or slow) diseases such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease and many more. Our wonderful care coordinator checks and updates our menu’s regularly to create one that is varied but contains everything our residents’ needs.

At mealtimes, residents are still offered a choice of what they would like to eat, but all options are balanced and specially designed to promote their wellbeing.
We also have a close care centre where residents can grab a snack in a more casual setting.

Social needs

We as humans are social creatures by nature, this does not go away with age and in fact, our social needs become higher. In our care homes, residents have many communal areas where social interaction can be promoted.

These rooms are designed to feel homely and warm while being set up in a way that encourages residents to speak with each other and develop friendships.

Unfortunately, not all of our residents are able to get out of bed and therefore can not venture to these areas, our wonderful activities lead set aside time to go into the bedrooms of these residents and speak with them to ensure their social needs are met.

Studies have shown that regular social interaction can lead to happier and more fulfilled lives, promoting better long-term mental health in the elderly.

Creative activities

Creative activities can help boost cognitive function within the elderly through stimulation, it helps keep them sharp and alert.

Examples of creative activities on offer at Ivonbrook are Art for wellbeing classes, making Bath bombs, Knit and Natter club, painting, card making and many, many more. It is a wonderful way for residents to socialise and can boost their self-esteem.

We proudly display our resident’s artwork on the walls and have turned the corridors between bedrooms into an ever-changing artwork gallery.

Cognitive Activities

Cognitive activities such as maths games or Bingo are a fun way of stimulating our residents. They allow residents to practice critical thinking, decision making improves memory and can help prevent cognitive decline. At Ivonbrook we try to ensure a healthy mix of activities to keep the residents interested and stimulated. Leading to improved long term mental health, higher self-esteem, and improved memory.

Self-Esteem/Self-image

Studies have shown that a person’s self-esteem begins to decline around 60 years old, it is important for a resident’s mental health that they maintain or gain a good self-image.

This is promoted within the care homes by having a hairdresser in each home, having a beautician coming in to do nails and helping the residents choose their clothes in the morning.

Once a resident has come into a communal area our friendly and polite staff will comment on an aspect of a resident’s appearance, whether this is “I love that shirt on you” or “have you just had your hair done, it looks lovely” or “I love that nail polish colour, it looks beautiful on you”.

This can really boost a resident’s self-image leading to better mental health in the long run, which can slow cognitive decline.

Learn More About Our Derbyshire Care Homes

We have two beautiful care homes in the Derbyshire countryside.  Darley Hall and Ivonbrook.  We accept residents from all over the county, but many of the residents are local from towns and villages such as Matlock, Darley Dale, Matlock Bath, Rowsley, Winster and Bakewell.

Get in touch to learn more about all our wonderful facilities.

Reflections of 2021: By Claire Wright

December 2021 leads me to feel that I need to reflect on the past year.  Whilst it wasn’t quite as tough as 2020 in terms of lock downs, and distancing rules, it certainly wasn’t the easiest of years for anyone. I feel thankful for our amazing care homes and the excellent staff who work in them.

These winter snow pictures that you see in the photographs demonstrate the importance of life and living.

Here at Darley Hall our family care for the elderly and show love for them in every way. The day and night staff complete long 12 hour shifts with the residents, giving them everything they could possibly need e.g: hugs, regular fluids, laughter and health care.

Some of the images are taken from the bedroom windows of Darley Hall by our lovely Night Senior Fran shared her reflections, saying “Isn’t this just wonderful to wake up to this?”

“After completing a night shift in the care home, it allowed reflection of group living and what it stands for and promotes.

Claires’ reflections – “Our Care Homes Are Like Family”

I discovered that caring for these elderly people makes the carers feel part of a family and as a carer, you grow to love and care about the residents.

I believe group living develops relationships, connections and a family of people who live as one. This is a wonderful thing to be a part of. I feel that we are privileged to take care of a number of human beings who all come from other families, and supporting them is the best outcome carers can possibly receive”.

Joining the Ivonbrook Family

Do you have a loved one who is in need of a little extra attention? Speak to one of our dedicated care teams to help you understand more about the services we provide for our elderly residents.

You may also like to read

• Arts and Crafts For The Elderly – Annies Art for Well Being
  
• Darley Hall Video Tour
• Care Training Centre & Partnership
• Dementia Symptoms – 5 signs to look for

Dementia care is incredibly important, even in the early stages. Living with dementia can be challenging, having a substantial effect on a person’s cognitive abilities; this can cause frustrations and emotions can run high.

Someone with dementia can struggle to express themselves with words and may find it hard to have conversations, but the imaginative and emotional part of the brain is usually still very active, so giving them a creative outlet to express themselves can be extremely beneficial for their mental and emotional health. Both art and storytelling are great ways to keep care home residents engaged and keep their brains active!

So, we at Ivonbrook have decided to combine the two and our residents have created an incredible storybook.  This all began with our Darley Hall residents making sock bunnies as an activity.

Dementia Care – Motor Skills Practise

This activity allowed residents to practice their fine motor skills, while also allowing them to be creative and have fun. Once finished, the residents started to act out a story, our lovely activities coordinator Kayleigh then wrote this story down.

The residents then began to make beautiful watercolours during their Monday and Thursday Art for Wellbeing sessions, and through these sessions, the book started to take form. The book will be professionally printed and provided for the residents so they can see their own creation in physical form, while the original artworks will be kept in the home to treasure for years to come.

This book will not only give the residents something to look forward to but will also give each of them a sense of accomplishment. This sense of accomplishment will have a positive impact on their self-image and self-esteem.

Here is a sneak peek of what is to come:

We hope that the residents are happy with the finished project and are as proud of themselves as we are of them!

For more information regarding the activities, we run at Ivonbrook and Darley Hall give us a call on 01629735306 or check out the Ivonbrook Facebook page to see what the residents have been up to recently.

You may also like to read

• Arts and Crafts For The Elderly – Annies Art for Well Being
  
• Darley Hall Video Tour
• Care Training Centre & Partnership
• Dementia Symptoms – 5 signs to look for