Staycation beach holiday brought to care home's residents

Most of the British population have decided to ditch plans for a trip abroad this year in favour of a staycation in the sun but care home residents have gone one step further by bringing the beach to them – with plenty of sand and even the sound of crashing waves.

Residents at Camelot House and Lodge care home are being treated to a staycation with a difference, thanks to a beach environment that has been created especially for them at their landlocked home in Taunton, Somerset.

The activities staff at the dementia care home Camelot House and Lodge have recreated a day at the seaside, complete with sand, beach accessories, ice-cream and even a soundtrack of the sea and passing seagulls.

Activities co-ordinator Richard Dempslake said: “Many of people’s happiest memories are associated with past seaside holidays, and our residents are no exception.

“And because of the nature of dementia it means that their older memories are the most frequently recalled. Many of our residents’ youthful holidays were spent on UK beaches, so we’ve done our best to bring the great British seaside to Wellington, and they certainly seem to be appreciating it.

Residents enjoyed finding seashells and using buckets and spades and staff provided plenty of windbreakers, beach balls, bats, balls and even mini surf boards.

Camelot House and Lodge is run by dementia care provider, Camelot Care.

“They’re enjoying burying their toes in the nice warm sand, making sandcastles and digging little trenches. This activity has been a great sensory experience for many of our residents, remembering the beaches of their youth through touch", added Mr Dempslake.

“To create a more authentic vibe we’ve put on a soundtrack that plays the noise of the sea lapping on the beach and the calls of seagulls – but only in moderation of course. “And for those residents who prefer to stay indoors, a mini beach was prepared on a tray so they were still able to take part in the fun.”

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