https://orchardcarehomes.com/carehomes/paddock-stile-manor-newbottle-houghton-le-spring

Paddock Stile Manor Dementia Care Home, Philadelphia Lane, Newbottle (2025)

27/10/2025

This afternoon we have been completing Autumn wordsearches !
Word searches are used in dementia care to provide mental stimulation, reduce stress, and create a sense of accomplishment. They are designed to be relaxing and enjoyable, using themes that can spark happy memories. Key features of dementia-friendly word searches include large print, simple puzzles, and themes like animals, nature, and 1950s music.

Benefits

Mental stimulation: They can help keep the mind active and engaged.

Stress and anxiety reduction: The calming, meditative nature of the activity can be soothing.

Memory and cognitive function: Puzzles can provide an outlet for exercising the brain and improving cognitive function.

Sense of accomplishment: Completing the puzzles can boost confidence and create a feeling of success.

Nostalgia: Puzzles with themes like 1950s music or other reminiscent topics can trigger positive memories.

Key features of dementia-friendly word searches

Large print: To make them easy to see and read.

Simple puzzles: Puzzles are designed to be less frustrating, with easier grids and shorter word lists.

Relatable themes: Topics are often comforting and familiar, such as nature, food, or family, to encourage positive recall.

Direction of words: Many puzzles are designed to be completed by looking for words only going left-to-right (across) and top-to-bottom (down).

Contrasting colors: Some books use contrasting colors to make letters and words easier to spot.

Tips for use

Start with simpler levels: Some books offer different difficulty levels, so start with the easiest one to build confidence.

Integrate into a routine: Schedule activities like word searches to provide structure and purpose.

Consider the individual: Choose themes and difficulty levels that are most likely to engage the person and prevent frustration.

27/10/2025

This afternoon Arthur has has helped to prepare our garden for winter coming. We have been taking out what shouldn't be there anymore and tidying g up what we are keeping. We have had a productive afternoon.
Gardening for people with dementia can be structured around the seasons, providing sensory stimulation, triggering memories, and maintaining physical and mental well-being. Each season offers unique opportunities for engagement, such as planting in spring and autumn, harvesting in summer, and performing maintenance in winter. Activities should be adapted to ability, focusing on sensory engagement and using plants to mark the time of year.

Spring

Activities: Sow seeds, plant seedlings, and repot plants.

Plants: Focus on spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils and plants with strong scents such as lavender and rosemary.

Benefits: Provides a sense of purpose and connection to the start of a new cycle.

Summer

Activities: Deadhead flowers, harvest vegetables like beans and peas, and enjoy the garden's bounty.

Plants: Grow sun-loving plants like geraniums, and easy-to-harvest items like tomatoes.

Benefits: Encourages a sense of accomplishment through harvesting and provides a rich sensory experience with vibrant colors and smells.

Autumn

Activities: Cut back perennials, sweep paths, and plant bulbs for the next spring.

Plants: Focus on plants with interesting seed heads and vibrant fall foliage.

Benefits: Provides a sense of order and preparation for the winter months.

Winter

Activities: Perform indoor gardening activities, like sowing seeds in pots or working on indoor hydroponic systems.

Plants: Grow herbs or flowers indoors, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of bare branches and evergreens.

Benefits: Offers a way to stay engaged with nature and a sense of purpose even when outdoor conditions are poor.

General tips for all seasons

Focus on sensory engagement: Use plants with contrasting colors, smells, and textures.

Trigger memories: Choose familiar plants and activities that may have nostalgic value.

Adapt the environment: Use raised beds, wide paths, and clear markings to make the garden accessible and safe.

Ensure safety: Be mindful of poisonous plants, thorns, and sharp tools. Provide assistance as needed.

Stay flexible: Adapt activities to the individual's interest and ability level, and focus on the joy of the process, not just the outcome.

Incorporate other senses: Add gentle sounds like wind chimes or enjoy bird song.

27/10/2025

This morning we have had lovely pamper, we have enjoyed having our nails done.
To provide nail care for someone with dementia, soften nails by soaking hands and feet, keep them clean, and trim them carefully to prevent problems like ingrown nails or infection. Consider making it a relaxing routine, like a manicure, and if there are difficulties, seek professional help from a podiatrist, especially for those with conditions like diabetes.

General tips for nail care

Soak and soften: Soak hands and feet in warm water to soften the nails and skin, which makes them easier to cut. Soaking also helps remove dirt.

Make it relaxing: Gently massage hands to help the person relax. If they become distressed, take a break.

Keep it clean: Use a manicure stick to gently clean under the nails.

Trim carefully: Cut nails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. File them with an emery board to smooth any jagged edges.

Moisturize: Apply moisturizer to the hands after the nail care is complete.

Look for snags: After filing, run a gloved hand over the nail to check for any snags.

Tips for making it a positive experience

Integrate into a routine: Combine nail care with other pleasant activities, like a manicure if the person enjoys it.

Observe their routine: Pay attention to their natural nail care routine to find out what they are comfortable with, and gradually include yourself in the process.

Consider their preferences: Some people may enjoy having their nails painted, which can make the process more enjoyable.

Ensure comfort: Ensure the person is comfortable and warm throughout the process.

When to seek professional help

Diabetes or other conditions: If the person has diabetes or another condition that puts them at a higher risk of complications, a registered nurse or podiatrist should handle nail care.

Difficulty with care: If you are not comfortable performing the task, or if the person becomes distressed, consider hiring a professional nail care service or asking for help from a podiatrist.

Uncut nails: If nails have been neglected and are becoming a problem, a podiatrist can help safely trim and manage them.

26/10/2025

This afternoon we have made Autumn wreaths, we have had a lovely creative afternoon.Seasonal arts and crafts for people with dementia include activities like decorating snowflakes in winter, making flowerpot decorations in spring, creating leaf collages in fall, and making memory boxes year-round. These activities offer therapeutic benefits such as stimulating the brain, improving motor skills, promoting self-expression, and reducing anxiety. Key considerations are to simplify steps, use easy-to-handle materials, and focus on familiar or sensory experiences to create a sense of accomplishment and connection.

Winter

Snowflake and ornament decorating: Decorate pre-cut snowflakes or pinecones with glitter, stickers, markers, or paint.

Winter scene painting: Use seasonal colors like blues, whites, and silvers with large-handled brushes. Finger painting can also be a great option.

Cookie decorating: Involve them in baking simple cookies by having them roll dough or add sprinkles.

Spring

Painting flowers and flowerpots: Paint flowers or decorate pots to plant bulbs.

Paper crafts: Create paper butterflies or flowers from paper.

Collages: Make bumblebee collages using different materials.

Summer

Flower pressing: Collect and press summer flowers like buttercups.

Painting and drawing: Use simple coloring books or paint landscapes. Suggesting outdoor painting can also be an option.

Garden-themed crafts: Paint birdhouses or create crafts with a garden theme.

Fall

Leaf collages: Create collages using colorful autumn leaves.

Crumble paper art: Use crumpled paper to create textures for art projects.

Card making: Fold paper and use stamps to create seasonal cards.

Year-round activities

Memory boxes: Decorate a box to store personal keepsakes and photographs.

Scrapbooking and photo albums: Create a scrapbook with photos or old magazines to evoke memories.

Clay and dough modeling: Use air-dry clay or salt dough to create simple shapes, which is a tactile and sensory activity.

Beading and jewelry making: Create simple bracelets or necklaces to improve hand-eye coordination.

Tips for a positive experience

Keep it simple: Choose projects with clear, simple steps.

Use appropriate tools: Provide items with large, easy-to-grip handles.

Focus on the process: The goal is the experience and self-expression, not the perfect final product.

Encourage independence: Offer choices, such as selecting colors or materials, to promote a sense of control.

Incorporate senses: Engage the sense of smell with scented playdough or touch with textured materials.

26/10/2025

This morning we had our holy communion,.
Religion and spirituality can provide comfort, reduce agitation, and improve quality of life for people with dementia. Practices like prayer, attending services, or listening to hymns can help manage behavioral symptoms and create a sense of safety and routine. Engaging with faith can also foster social connections and emotional positivity, while religious rituals may evoke positive feelings and memories.

Benefits of religious and spiritual engagement

Manages agitation: Religious services can be calming for people with dementia, providing a routine and a peaceful environment that may reduce irritability and aggression.

Provides comfort and security: Prayer and faith can offer a sense of security, resilience, and hope, alleviating worries about an uncertain future.

Improves mood: Engaging in spiritual activities can create positive feelings and memories, which may improve overall well-being and reduce depression and anxiety.

Stimulates social interaction: Religious services and groups provide a structured way for people with dementia to connect with others, share experiences, and feel a sense of community.

Offers a sense of purpose: Rituals, prayers, and verses can provide structure and a sense of purpose, keeping individuals cognitively active.

Practical ways to support religious and spiritual needs

Adapt activities: Individuals may not be able to attend services. Caregivers can bring faith into their daily lives through singing hymns, reading religious texts, or praying at home.

Use technology: Live-streaming services or watching religious videos online can allow for participation from home.

Be flexible: Be prepared for potential disruptions. A person with dementia may have new choices or behaviors, so adapting the approach is key.

Consider spiritual needs beyond religion: For those without a religious background, spiritual needs can be met through other practices, such as connecting with nature.

Engage in spiritual reminiscence: Activities like the "Precious Memories" video series, which combines hymns, Bible readings, and devotionals, can trigger memories and conversations.

24/10/2025

💚🏃‍♀️🤸‍♂️💪 We had Sarah from GFitness this afternoon for a session of armchair exercise 💪🤸‍♂️🏃‍♀️💚💚💚

Armchair exercises are beneficial for people with dementia as they improve physical function, cognitive abilities, and mood while reducing social isolation. Activities like seated marching, arm raises, and gentle rotations can be performed to music to enhance engagement.

Benefits of armchair exercise for people with dementia

Improved physical function:

Enhances mobility, balance, coordination, and muscle strength, which can lead to a more independent lifestyle and lower the risk of falls.

Cognitive stimulation:

Can help improve memory and slow age-related cognitive decline.

Mood enhancement:

Activities set to music can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Social interaction:

Group exercise classes encourage interaction, combat social isolation, and promote a sense of community.

24/10/2025

💚💚💚💋 Jackie's had the full works today hair done and make up on 💋💚💚💚

Hair and makeup are important for a person with dementia as they can support identity, self-esteem, and a sense of normalcy, but caregiving may require adjustments. Encourage them to continue routines, assist as needed (using simple steps), and respect their personal style preferences. Regular professional hair appointments, even in-home, can also provide social and therapeutic benefits.

Why hair and makeup matter

Identity and dignity:

Maintaining appearance helps a person with dementia feel like themselves and can be integral to their self-respect, as supported by organizations like the Alzheimer's Society.

Self-esteem:

Feeling good about one's appearance can lead to improved mood and a greater sense of well-being.

Routine and normalcy:

Continuing long-standing grooming habits can provide a sense of routine and normalcy in their daily life.

24/10/2025

💚💚💚🧐👁👁 This morning we had a look through some of our replica packs,from notes from Jack the Ripper to 70's childhood, some were very interesting.

Reminiscing is a therapeutic technique, known as reminiscence therapy, used to help people with dementia by stimulating their long-term memory through past experiences, objects, or media. Tapping into older, more established memories can improve mood, reduce agitation, enhance communication and cognitive function, and strengthen a person's sense of identity and purpose. This can be achieved through various methods like looking at old photos, listening to music, or engaging the senses with familiar smells or tastes.

How it works

Accessing long-term memory:

Dementia often damages short-term memory first, so long-term memories can still be accessible and function even when short-term memory is degraded.

Stimulating emotional centers:

The brain's emotion centers (amygdala) may remain intact, allowing people to still "feel" the emotions associated with memories, even if the specific details are fuzzy.

Benefits of reminiscence therapy

Improved mood:

Recalling positive memories can lead to uplifted spirits and a sense of comfort.

Reduced anxiety and agitation:

Familiar and comforting memories can create a calmer environment.

Enhanced communication:

Talking about the past can stimulate conversation, even for those who struggle with short-term memory, and help strengthen relationships.

Cognitive stimulation:

Remembering details from the past exercises the brain, potentially helping to slow cognitive decline.

Sense of purpose and identity:

Reminiscing helps individuals reconnect with their life story, accomplishments, and who they are, reinforcing their sense of self.

24/10/2025

We'd like to congratulate Whitney Sampson on successfully completing her CQC Registration for the first time and becoming the Registered Manager of Three Bridges Nursing Home 👏

The certification, led by CQC, is only given after a rigorous application process which looks at a number of different qualities; including whether the person has a clear understanding of care laws and rules, complies with relevant regulations and is fit to be registered as a manager. After her interview last week, we're pleased to say Whitney passed with flying colours - which won't surprise anyone who has had the pleasure of working alongside her!

Joining our Warrington nursing home as a nurse, Whitney has shown time and time again her dedication to providing exceptional care, and is a well-loved member of the team. We are incredibly proud of Whitney's achievements and excited to see her flourish in this next step in her career 🥹 ❤️

Congrats, Whitney!

23/10/2025

This afternoon we have been playing basketball and Connect4.
Games for people with dementia include classic card and board games, puzzles, word activities, and modern options like apps and memory-matching games. These activities stimulate cognitive function, improve memory, and can encourage social interaction, so it is helpful to choose games that are familiar, adaptable to different skill levels, or specifically designed for dementia. Examples include playing simplified versions of games like UNO or Snakes and Ladders, doing large-piece jigsaw puzzles, or using specialized dementia-friendly games like "Call to mind".

Classic and adapted games

Card games:

Simple games like UNO, or classics such as Go Fish, Rummy, or dominoes can be adapted to the person's ability. A standard deck can be used for multiple games, and the caregiver can ask the person to explain the rules to stimulate memory.

Board games:

Familiar games like Snakes and Ladders or Ludo can be used, sometimes with adaptations like using numbered cards instead of dice to be easier to handle and more memorable.

Jigsaw puzzles:

Choose puzzles with large, easy-to-handle pieces to encourage hand-eye coordination and problem-solving.

Bingo:

Use large-print bingo cards and adapt the game to be more social and less stressful.

Brain-stimulating activities

Word games:

Activities like word searches or simplified crosswords help with language and vocabulary. Games that encourage conversation, such as "Call to mind," are also beneficial.

Memory games:

These can be simple card-matching games or digital memory games on tablets and smartphones.

Puzzles:

Beyond jigsaw puzzles, other brain teasers can be helpful. Some specialized puzzle books are designed specifically for people with dementia, including crosswords and nostalgic activities.

Modern and specialized games

Interactive apps:

Brain-training apps like Lumosity or Peak can be used on a tablet or smartphone to work on various cognitive skills.

Specialized games:

There are purpose-built dementia games available, such as marble mazes or board games designed to stimulate memory and conversation.

23/10/2025

This afternoon we have listened to 60's and 70's music and used our sensory equipment.
Sensory activities for dementia engage the senses to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and provide meaningful engagement. Examples include aromatherapy and hand massages for touch and smell, listening to personalized music or looking at old photos for hearing and sight, and activities like sorting or simple art projects for touch and cognition. Creating a "sensory box" with meaningful objects is another great way to provide a variety of tactile and visual experiences.

Activities for different senses

Touch:

Hand or foot massages: Use gentle pressure and aromatherapy oils like lavender to promote relaxation.

Sensory boxes: Fill a box with varied objects like fabric swatches, smooth stones, or pinecones to touch.

Pampering sessions: Brushing hair, tidying nails, or using soft cloths can be soothing.

Sorting objects: Sorting items like large buttons, smooth rocks, or kitchen utensils provides a tactile and cognitive challenge.

Smell:

Aromatherapy: Use essential oils like lavender, lemon, or peppermint to evoke memories and promote calm.

Cooking/baking: The smells of spices, cooking, or baking can be very evocative. Provide items like whisks and cookie cutters for a sensory experience.

Sight:

Photo albums: Look through old photographs, especially of family, pets, or significant life events.

Art activities: Coloring, painting, or working with clay can be calming. Focus on the process rather than the outcome.

Interactive technology: Use "magic tables" or tablets to display calming visuals or simple games.

Sound:

Personalized playlists: Create playlists of music from the person's younger years.

Nature sounds: Play recordings of birds, rain, or other calming sounds.

Pet therapy: Spending time with animals can be comforting and stimulating.

Taste:

Food and drinks: Offer favorite foods or drinks from their past.

Herbs and spices: Allow them to smell and taste different herbs and spices.

Tips for success

Focus on the process, not the result: The goal is engagement and enjoyment, not creating a perfect piece of art.

Keep it simple: Avoid activities with too many steps or complicated instructions.

Be patient and gentle: Offer support and guidance as needed, but let the person lead the activity.

Personalize activities: Tailor activities to the individual's past interests and life experiences to make them more meaningful.

23/10/2025

This morning we have had a games morning, we have enjoyed playing games that we haven't played for a while.
Playing games with individuals who have dementia can provide cognitive stimulation and social engagement, and it's often best to adapt games to suit their abilities. Familiar games like dominoes, card games (such as Go Fish), and bingo are good options because they may trigger long-term memories. Simple board games, puzzles with large pieces, or word games can also be beneficial and should be adapted by shortening game length or simplifying rules if concentration wanes.

Suggested games

Dominoes: The simple, visual nature of dominoes makes it accessible.

Card games: Games like Go Fish or simple matching games can be played with a standard deck.

Bingo: A familiar and social activity that relies on long-term memory.

Puzzles: Jigsaw puzzles with large pieces or word puzzles can help with cognitive function. Ensure all puzzle pieces are present.

Board games: Simple, classic games like Snakes and Ladders or Connect Four are good options.

Video games: Simple, familiar, or customized video games on tablets or computers can stimulate cognitive function, especially for those in earlier stages.

Tips for playing

Adapt the game: Modify rules, shorten game sessions, or avoid scoring to suit the person's current abilities.

Focus on enjoyment: The goal is fun and engagement, not winning. Stop if the person loses interest.

Keep it simple: Use games with large pieces, bright colors, and simple rules.

Encourage social interaction: Many games provide an opportunity for social connection with family and friends.

Be patient: Allow for more time and be supportive throughout the game.

22/10/2025

Today is National Colour day, to celebrate this we decorated Canvases for our rooms . We had lots of fun being as creative as we can! We also listened to music with different colours in the song!
Art, particularly through structured art therapy, is a powerful non-pharmacological tool for improving the quality of life for people with dementia. Creative activities can stimulate the brain, provide emotional release, and foster social connection, even for those with advanced cognitive decline.

Benefits of art for people with dementia

Brain stimulation: Creative processes such as painting, sculpting, and collage activate different areas of the brain, including those responsible for sensory perception and motor skills. This helps engage attention and can slow the rate of cognitive decline.

Enhanced communication: Art offers a non-verbal outlet for self-expression, which is crucial when verbal skills diminish. A person with dementia who struggles to speak may be able to communicate complex emotions or thoughts through their art.

Improved mood and emotional well-being: Engaging in art can reduce agitation, anxiety, and apathy. The act of creating and finishing a project provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which in turn boosts self-esteem and happiness.

Memory recall: Art activities can help trigger memories and encourage reminiscence. For example, working with familiar themes or photographs can prompt a person to recall past experiences and share stories.

Social engagement: Group art sessions can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation by encouraging interaction and relationship-building among participants.

Physical benefits: Many art forms involve small hand and finger movements that help maintain or improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and finger flexibility.

Effective art activities for people with dementia

The most successful activities are person-centered, tailored to individual interests and abilities, and focus on the process rather than the final product.

Hands-on and tactile

Collage-making: Using materials such as old magazines, personal photos, or fabric scraps can stimulate memories and offer a wide variety of textures.

Clay or dough modeling: Working with air-dry clay or homemade salt dough is calming and excellent for tactile stimulation and fine motor skills.

Paper flower making: This can be a satisfying activity using crepe paper and simple templates, creating a beautiful and tangible result.

Painting and coloring

Guided painting: An instructor can guide participants through painting a simple scene, or you can use pre-drawn paint-by-number kits for a structured activity.

Watercolors: The fluid nature of watercolor painting can be relaxing. Water-based paints are also less messy and easier to handle.

Adult coloring books: These offer defined spaces to work within, providing a calming and focused activity that doesn't require advanced artistic skills.

Reminiscence-based

Memory boxes or scrapbooks: Filling a box or album with photographs, mementos, or letters can help a person with dementia revisit happy memories.

Scented sachets: Filling sachets with familiar-smelling herbs like lavender can be a multi-sensory activity that helps with relaxation and memory.

Nature crafts: Collecting and decorating items from a nature walk, such as leaves and pinecones, provides sensory stimulation and a connection to the outdoors.

Tips for caregivers and facilitators

Focus on enjoyment over perfection. Celebrate effort and expression without judgment. There is no wrong way to create art.

Keep activities simple. Projects with too many steps can cause frustration. Simplify tasks or break them down into smaller, manageable parts.

Personalize activities. Incorporate the person's past hobbies and interests. If they enjoyed gardening, try decorating flower pots; if they liked to cook, decorate cookies.

Reduce distractions. Create a calm, quiet environment for the activity to help with focus and concentration.

Be flexible and patient. Energy levels can fluctuate. If an activity isn't working, try again later or switch to something else.

Use safe, accessible materials. Opt for washable paints, large-handled brushes, and non-toxic supplies.

22/10/2025

Wendy, the brilliant Home Administrator at Three Bridges Nursing Home has recently implemented a very special addition to residents' bedroom doors! 🥰

With her mum Doris living at the wonderful home and her late father William also having lived there, Wendy knows the home inside-out and knows how dedicated the team is to providing the highest quality of care.

One small thing that Wendy realised was that when members of the team were new to their role, it might be nice for them to know a little more about the residents straight away - and so came her idea for informative bedroom door signs 👏

Now, everybody knows straight away from the signs a resident's preferences - whether they like their nightlight left on when they sleep or which music they like listening to! They have been a very popular, effective addition to the home and families, team members and visitors all absolutely love them 💚

21/10/2025

🪷 Diwali celebrations at Green Park Nursing Home 🪷

Our Warrington care home always likes to celebrate Diwali, but this year, they welcomed Care home activity provider who provided a workshop for their residents.

The day included a visit from their favourite Bollywood dancers, making traditional diyas and getting henna tattoos!

Lisa, Activities Co-ordinator, said "We have many colleagues who celebrate Diwali and it was lovely to involve the residents in learning about their culture. One of our residents, Cecil, loved getting a henna tattoo and asked plenty of questions about Diwali celebrations. Diwali is all about love and light, and it certainly brought that to our home!"

Happy Diwali!

20/10/2025

Tell us you were a drummer in a band without telling us you were a drummer in a band 🥁 👏

Hal lives in our dementia-specialist Reconnect community at Green Park Nursing Home, and when their entertainer brought drums in, he showed everyone his incredible talent!

This is what Reconnect is about: providing a safe space to continue your passions, hobbies and interests! Well done, Hal - we love watching you in your element 💞🥹

17/10/2025

📹 Watch the moment Caroline presented a Care Certificate to her favourite team member, Tessy 🥹

As a Dementia Support Worker at Archers Court Care Home, Tessy works closely with Caroline on a daily basis, and when she found out Tessy had completed her care qualification, she jumped at the chance to present the award!

The Care Certificate, which takes approximately 12 weeks to complete, provides a great understanding of person-centred care, and Tessy passed with flying colours. Congrats, Tessy - and we hope you enjoyed your surprise presentation!

15/10/2025

Everyone Meet Ashgar, aka Employee of the Month at Eckington Court Nursing Home 😆✨

Senior Care Assistant Ashgar has been a hard-working and dedicated member of the Eckington team since February last year and is best described as a supportive team player. He is gentle and helpful by nature and loved by residents and team members alike 💚

Ashgar is also known to be especially helpful for those just starting out in the home, showing them around and helping them learn the ropes - what a superstar!

Paddock Stile Manor Dementia Care Home

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