Across the Excelcare Family, the people who live in our homes are supported to live an enriched life. Our Lifestyle Coordinators are there to ensure each day, there is a choice for people to spend their day as they wish. A varied activity schedule ensures people know what events and activities are taking place and that there is something everyone can enjoy.

Part of our commitment to ensuring individuals live an enriched life is giving people the opportunity to take part in meaningful activities. This could mean, encouraging a person to help with maintenance tasks, or planting in the garden, as we regularly see fulfillment following activities where people have the chance to help.

We also match individuals' likes and needs with the types of activities we host. This could involve inviting someone who used to attend quizzes in the community, to host a session for their friends in the care home - we refer to this as ‘person-led activities’.

In this case study, we will be exploring to story of Nicky, who lived at Sherrell House Care Home, and the lasting impact of an activity she hosted.

Nicky used to visit Sherrell House Care Home in 2021 and 2022, usually for a week or two for respite care. During this time, she loved getting to know the people living and working at the care home, as well as taking part in meaningful activities and events.

In March 2023, Nicky decided to move in permanently to Sherrell House Care Home, where she was supported by team members to transition smoothly into her new home. Some of her favourite activities included arts and crafts, and word games - in which she took pleasure in helping others with writing and spelling. It was Nicky's nature to support, lead, and encourage others to participate in activities as she never wanted anyone to feel lonely or isolated.

Nicky had a passion for dancing, which had stayed with her since her teenage years after being a member of a dance troupe. Whilst living at Sherrell House, Nicky always joined in with musical activities, taking every opportunity to show off her dance moves and teach her friends a few steps.

Another of Nicky’ life passions was teaching. She was very proud of her career and loved to share stories about the children she taught, and memorable moments from her career. She loved working with children, and watching them learn, so intergenerational activities and events at Sherrell House were cherished moments for Nicky.

The team at Sherrell House Care Home supported Nicky to continue her love of helping children throughout her life. One recent example is when the team organised for Nicky to visit Wells Park School. This is located near the care home, and after meeting the children at different events, Nicky developed strong connections with many of the pupils. So, during this visit, Nicky was given a warm welcome and invited to join their gardening activity. Nicky was delighted and you could see the skills she developed throughout her career coming through. She was warm, welcoming and supportive throughout, but most importanly, made some very special memories.

"It was evident to see that Nicky was in her element, as she had a unique bond with the children, not one that any of us were able to have", said a team member from Sherrell House.

Unfortunately, shortly after visiting Wells Park School, Nicky passed away peacefully at Sherrell House Care Home. What truly moved the team was during Nicky’s last moments, she recalled memories from her visit to the school and how much she enjoyed spending time with children.

This is just one example of how powerful pairing people’s passion points with activities can be for people living in care homes. Creating moments that people truly cherish and hold onto for the rest of their lives is priceless.