Building Intergenerational Bonds and Promoting Healthy Living
Oakbank Care Home has had a heart-warming and activity packed few weeks, as residents enjoyed their regular visits from the children of Advreck Nursery and took part in the national Nutrition and Hydration Week.
Intergenerational Joy: Visits from Advreck Nursery
Every fortnight, the home is filled with laughter and energy as the children from Advreck Nursery arrive to spend time with the residents. The nursery, which is divided into three groups - Elm, Beech, and Oak - takes it in turns to visit Oakbank, bringing a fresh wave of excitement with each visit.
Led by Julie, Oakbanks dedicated Activity and Wellbeing Manager, a variety of fun and engaging activities are set up for each session. From painting and making sun catchers to planting seeds and celebrating seasonal events like Holi, both young and old come together to create, chat, and often get a little messy - all in good fun.
One of the most special parts of the visit is the shared lunch that follows the activities. Children and residents sit together and enjoy a healthy meal, with chatter and laughter echoing through the room. Over time, meaningful relationships have blossomed. The children have grown more confident with each visit, residents eagerly look forward to these intergenerational moments, often telling their families all about the latest nursery day. Likewise, the children talk about their visits at home and even wave when they spot the Oakbank bus around town.
"We reached out to Advreck Nursery because we believe in the power of connecting generations," said a member of the Oakbank team. "The nursery were just as enthusiastic, and it's been a joy watching friendships grow."
Promoting Health and Fun: Nutrition and Hydration Week
In line with Oakbanks commitment to residents wellbeing, the home recently took part in the national Nutrition and Hydration Week, encouraging residents to try new flavours and get involved in fun food-based activities.
Each day brought something new and engaging. Highlights included a cheese and wine afternoon, biscuit decorating sessions, a green-themed day featuring fruit, vegetables, and drinks, and even a sandwich-making station. Residents particularly enjoyed helping to peel vegetables for a hearty soup - an activity that sparked such enthusiasm it has now been requested as a weekly event!
"The whole team got involved," said a staff member. "It was brilliant to see everyone thinking creatively about how to make nutrition and hydration not just educational, but fun too."
This vibrant week was not just about trying new foods and drinks - it was about celebrating choice, encouraging connection, and enhancing overall wellbeing in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
Between nurturing bond with the youngest members of the community and fostering a healthy, fun environment through creative nutrition initiatives, Oakbank Care Home continues to be a place where happiness, care, and community comes first.
To find out more about our activities programme, or care services that we offer, please contact our friendly team.
