I love the start of a new year, don't you?
It's a chance to try again, to improve my own mindset, my lifestyle and my services to Activity Coordinators. Thus, improving the provision of support for care home activities for our elders living in care homes.
January is Hot Tea Month, a lovely excuse for improving your teatime treats and making them a special pairing with your activities.
Start with a simple Tea Tasting Session: explore different tea varieties and flavours.
Select a Variety of Teas: Offer a diverse selection of teas, including black, green, herbal, and maybe even some specialty blends.
Prepare Accompaniments: Have light snacks like biscuits or small pastries to complement the tea. Ensure they are easy to handle and not too messy. Consider preferences and dietary restrictions of the residents.
Set the Ambiance: Create a cosy and relaxed atmosphere with soft lighting and comfortable seating. Use tablecloths and decorative elements to make it visually appealing.
Educational Elements: Share brief information about each tea, including its origin, flavour profile, and potential health benefits. This adds an educational aspect to the tasting.
Provide Tasting Notes: Encourage engagement and discussion. Create simple tasting cards that residents can fill out, expressing their thoughts on each tea.
Consider Sensory Needs: Be mindful of residents' sensory preferences. Some may prefer milder teas, while others might enjoy bold flavors. Take into account any sensitivities to smells.
Personalised Tea Cups: If possible, use unique tea cups for each resident to enhance the experience. Personal touches can make the event more special.
Include Social Interaction: Encourage conversation among residents during the tasting to foster a sense of community and shared experience.
Adapt to Mobility Levels: Ensure that the setup is accessible for residents with varying mobility levels. Consider having a mobile tea cart to bring the experience to different areas of the care home.
Gauge Preferences: Pay attention to residents' preferences during the session and consider incorporating popular choices into future tea tastings.
Capture Memories: Take photos during the tea tasting and share them with the residents afterwards. This can serve as a pleasant memory and conversation starter.
Remember, the key is to create a warm and enjoyable experience that caters to the residents' preferences and needs.
There are so many other activities to enjoy during this winter month, bringing warmth and joy to care home activities across the UK.