It was a great pleasure it was to be invited to Ardtully Care Home in Ingatestone last week for a tour of the home and to have the opportunity to meet some of the residents, and enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea.
Manager Merjury Clavadetscher runs the home with great warmth and passion and her and her team create a loving and supportive atmosphere which puts the residents first. Residents even have a say in who joins the team – especially when it comes to choosing the cooks!
I was delighted to hear about the varied programme of activities on offer each week. These include trips to the local library and church, as well as regular visits from a hairdresser. Alison, the Activities Manager, also told me about the much-loved summer garden parties, where residents enjoy time outdoors in the warmer months. Recently, the local fire service visited – I was assured that some of the ladies were especially delighted to meet the local firemen.
Over afternoon tea residents quizzed me on topics ranging from local speed limits and pavement safety to immigration and the winter fuel allowance. A number of them raised concerns with me about the state of the local pavements and I will be following up with the local council.
I came away feeling very fortunate to have been invited to Ardtully. The visit was a powerful reminder of how positive and uplifting care in later life can be when it is approached with dedication, creativity, and respect.
