The Orchards Ely

28/05/2026

A message from our manager💚

If I ever get dementia I’d like my family to hang this wish list up on the wall where I live. I want them to remember these things.



1a. Every time you enter the room announce yourself. “Hi mum/dad- it’s ………...”

NEVER ask- Do you know who I am??? That causes anxiety.



1. If I get dementia, I want my friends and family to embrace my reality.



2. If I think my spouse is still alive, or if I think we’re visiting my parents for dinner, let me believe those things. I’ll be much happier for it.



3. If I get dementia, don’t argue with me about what is true for me versus what is true for you.



4. If I get dementia, and I am not sure who you are, do not take it personally. My timeline is confusing to me.



5. If I get dementia, and can no longer use utensils, do not start feeding me. Instead, switch me to a finger-food diet, and see if I can still feed myself.



6. If I get dementia, and I am sad or anxious, hold my hand and listen. Do not tell me that my feelings are unfounded.



7. If I get dementia, I don’t want to be treated like a child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.



8. If I get dementia, I still want to enjoy the things that I’ve always enjoyed. Help me find a way to exercise, read, and visit with friends.



9. If I get dementia, ask me to tell you a story from my past.



10. If I get dementia, and I become agitated, take the time to figure out what is bothering me.



11. If I get dementia, treat me the way that you would want to be treated.



12. If I get dementia, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for me in the house. Even now if I don’t eat I get angry, and if I have dementia, I may have trouble explaining what I need.



13. If I get dementia, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room.



14. If I get dementia, don’t feel guilty if you cannot care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not your fault, and you’ve done your best. Find someone who can help you, or choose a great new place for me to live.



15. If I get dementia, and I live in a dementia care community, please visit me when you want to, no pressure to do that regularly.



16. If I get dementia, don’t act frustrated if I mix up names, events, or places. Take a deep breath. It’s not my fault.



17. If I get dementia, make sure I always have my favorite music playing within earshot.



18. If I get dementia, and I like to pick up items and carry them around, help me return those items to their original place.



19. If I get dementia, don’t exclude me from parties and family gatherings.



20. If I get dementia, know that I still like receiving hugs or handshakes.



21. If I get dementia, remember that I am still the person you know and love.”



in Honor of someone you know or knew who has dementia. In Honor of all those I know and love and lost who are fighting Dementia/Alzheimer’s.



Someone once said if you take care of someone with dementia you lose them more and more everyday. When they get the diagnosis, when they go through different stages, when they need treatment and when they pass away.


This is called "the longest goodbye ". As the brain slowly dies, they change physically and eventually forget who their loved ones are. They could end up lying in bed, not moving and not eating or drinking.

A special thank you to anyone willing to put this on their timeline to raise awareness for Dementia & Alzheimer’s Awareness Week coming up at the end of May.

26/05/2026

We're looking forward to exhibiting at the https://www.facebook.com/suffolkshow this week.

We will be sharing the memories of our residents who have grown up in the county and look forward to hearing more stories from the show visitors - we'll also be showcasing our not-for-profit care homes in the area to those starting to explore care options.

Come and say Hi! Find us at stand 634 in the red zone.

The Suffolk Show is managed by the Suffolk Agricultural Association, a charity focused on promoting the importance of food, farming and the environment.

25/05/2026

We had the most amazing morning with the Moo Music children and mums group last week — so much genuine connection, laughter, and joy across such a beautiful range of ages.🥰

25/05/2026

This weeks timetable!

22/05/2026

Earlier this week, our wonderful Liz and Ginny enjoyed a beautiful trip to the cathedral to see the stunning new painting of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. As we wandered through the building, we found ourselves reminiscing about the special moments this place holds. For Ginny, it was especially meaningful — she fondly remembered her son’s wedding here, a memory that still brings her so much joy.

And Liz… well, we discovered she was once known as the “flower‑arranging legend” of the cathedral, which absolutely delighted everyone. She even reconnected with old friends during our visit, adding another layer of warmth to the day.

We rounded off the afternoon with a cosy coffee and a lovely chat together — a perfect blend of connection, joy, and gentle reminiscence.🥰

22/05/2026

Earlier this week, we spent a truly lovely afternoon playing ball and target games together. The friendly competition brought out so much excitement and determination, but what made it special were the shared smiles and constant giggles. It felt like one of those simple, joyful activities that brings everyone a little closer.💚

22/05/2026

We enjoyed a beautifully relaxed arts and crafts session, surrounded by bright materials and gentle conversation as our ideas slowly came to life.😁

21/05/2026

We cannot wait!🥰

It's here! Tomorrow is my final session of this half term and it's at The Orchards Care Home in Ely.

One space is now available in Baby Moo! Book on now if you would like to attend. It is completely free!

Please let me know if you are unable to attend as I can free up the spaces for others. Mixed Moo has a waiting list so feel free to be added to that too.

Then it's half term! I have two specials to celebrate - check out my booking page for more info!

Moo-music.co.uk/en

Sophie Xx

19/05/2026

This Dementia Awareness Week, we want to give a very special thank you to our amazing volunteer Michelle for her incredible bravery and generosity. Michelle had her hair shaved off in support of the Alzheimer’s Society, raising a fantastic £457 for a cause that means so much to us all.

With 1 in 3 people born in the UK today expected to develop dementia in their lifetime, supporting this work is more important than ever. Michelle, your kindness and courage truly make a difference — thank you so much.

Not wanting to miss out on the moment, our maintenance man Tony also decided it was the perfect time to get involved and had his hair shaved too… even if he didn’t have much to start with!🤣

19/05/2026

Join us on Saturday 8th August at 14:30 for our annual Garden Fete. We have a fantastic afternoon planned with entertainment from the wonderful Banjo Man, a visit from the Raptor Foundation, a raffle, tombola, cake stall, craft stall and plenty more for everyone to enjoy. We’re also delighted to share that the Mayor will be joining us for the event. We look forward to welcoming you for a lovely afternoon in the garden.😀

18/05/2026

This weeks timetable!