Navigating Residential Care: A Guide for Families and Residents

Residential care is a vital option for individuals who require assistance with daily activities but do not need the intensive medical care provided by nursing homes. Whether it’s support with bathing, dressing, mobility, or medication management, residential care offers a safe and structured environment tailored to meet these needs. It also fosters social interaction and community engagement, ensuring residents maintain a sense of independence and dignity.

At Tanglewood Care Homes, we understand the importance of creating a nurturing environment that prioritises person-centred care and emotional well-being. Our facilities are thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, safety, and opportunities for meaningful social interaction. With features such as engaging activity programmes, accessible outdoor spaces, and dedicated care teams, Tanglewood Care Homes exemplify the balance between professional support and a homely atmosphere. This guide aims to provide families and individuals with a detailed understanding of residential care, helping them make informed decisions about this important aspect of elder care.

What is Residential Care?

Residential care refers to the general support provided in a care home setting for individuals who struggle to live independently due to age-related challenges, disabilities, or other health conditions. Often referred to as assisted living or personal care, it is designed to help residents with essential daily tasks while providing access to 24-hour assistance. Residential care homes are regulated by the Care Quality Commission in the UK, ensuring they meet strict safety and quality standards.

Key Features of Residential Care

Residential care focuses on creating a supportive environment where residents can live comfortably while receiving help with their daily needs. Here are some core aspects:

• Personal Care: Assistance with fundamental tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility. Care workers ensure residents maintain hygiene and dignity while managing tasks they may find challenging. This support is tailored to each individual’s needs, allowing them to retain as much independence as possible.
• Medication Management: Team members assist residents in taking prescribed medications on time and monitor any side effects or health concerns. This ensures that residents receive their medications safely and effectively.
• Meals and Nutrition: Residential care homes provide nutritious meals tailored to individual dietary needs. This includes catering for special diets such as diabetic-friendly or low-sodium options. Meals are often served in communal dining areas, fostering social interaction and a sense of community.
• Social Interaction: Residents benefit from organised activities like games, outings, communal dining experiences, and entertainment programs that foster connections and combat loneliness. These activities are designed to be engaging and adaptable to residents’ interests and abilities.
• Safety and Security: Residential homes are equipped with safety measures such as secure entrances, fire safety protocols, and 24-hour team presence to ensure residents feel protected at all times. The environment is designed to minimise risks associated with mobility issues and sensory decline.

Residential Care Facilities

Residential care facilities are meticulously designed to provide a homely atmosphere, complete with amenities and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of residents. These facilities typically include shared or private living spaces, communal dining areas, and recreational spaces, all of which contribute to a sense of community and comfort. For instance, many care homes, such as those in our Tanglewood network, offer a range of amenities that enhance residents’ quality of life. These may include cinema rooms, on-site hairdressers, and cafes, which not only provide convenience but also foster social interaction and a sense of belonging.

Design Principles

Modern residential care facilities are built with specific design principles in mind, aiming to create an “enabling environment” that supports residents’ independence and well-being. This includes generous space standards, maximum natural daylight, and natural ventilation to ensure a healthy and uplifting living space. The design often avoids internal corridors without views or natural light, instead opting for dual-aspect apartments where possible. This thoughtful approach helps reduce feelings of confinement and promotes a sense of connection to the outdoors.

Amenities and Services

Residential care homes offer a comprehensive range of amenities and services designed to support residents’ physical, emotional, and social needs. These include:

• Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, ensuring residents maintain their dignity and independence.
• Nutritional Services: Providing balanced and nutritious meals that cater to individual dietary needs, often served in communal dining areas to encourage social interaction.
• Recreational Activities: Engaging residents in various social and recreational activities, such as arts and crafts, outings, and entertainment programs, which are crucial for mental and emotional well-being.
• Housekeeping and Laundry Services: Maintaining clean and organised living spaces, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their daily lives without the burden of household chores.
• Healthcare Support: Access to essential medical services, including medication management and regular health check-ups, ensuring residents receive the care they need.

Specialised Care

Some residential care homes specialise in supporting individuals with specific needs, such as dementia care. These facilities are designed with dementia-friendly features, including clear signage, calming colour schemes, and memory boxes that help spark conversations and create a sense of familiarity. Team members are trained to provide personalised care plans that cater to the unique needs of each resident, ensuring they feel supported and understood throughout their stay.

Benefits of Residential Care

Residential care provides a range of advantages that enhance the lives of older adults, ensuring their physical, emotional, and social needs are met in a safe and supportive environment.

1.     Social Interaction

One of the most significant benefits of residential care is the opportunity for meaningful social engagement. Loneliness and isolation are common challenges for older adults living alone, which can negatively impact mental health. Residential care homes foster a sense of community by organising group activities such as games, outings, and communal dining experiences. Residents can forge friendships, participate in hobbies, and enjoy daily interactions with peers and the team, promoting emotional well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.

2.     Safety and Security

Safety is a top priority in residential care homes. These facilities are equipped with features such as secure entry systems, emergency call buttons, and mobility aids, to ensure residents are protected at all times. The presence of trained team members 24/7 provides peace of mind for both residents and their families. Additionally, the design of residential care homes often includes non-slip flooring, handrails, and accessible bathrooms to minimise the risk of accidents.

3.     Personalised Support

Residential care offers tailored assistance based on each resident’s individual needs. Care plans are developed to address specific requirements such as help with bathing, dressing, medication management, or mobility support. This personalised approach ensures residents maintain their dignity while receiving the right level of care to promote independence. Team members work closely with residents and their families to adapt care plans as needs evolve over time.

4.     Access to Amenities

Care homes provide access to a variety of amenities designed to enrich residents’ lives. These may include fitness centres for physical activity, libraries for intellectual stimulation, and activity rooms for creative pursuits like arts and crafts. Some homes also offer on-site services such as hair salons, cafes, or cinema rooms for added convenience and enjoyment. These amenities not only improve quality of life but also encourage social interaction and engagement.

5.     Peace of Mind for Families

For families, residential care offers reassurance that their loved ones are safe, cared for, and supported in a nurturing environment. Knowing that professional caregivers are available around the clock allows family members to focus on spending quality time with their loved ones rather than worrying about their day-to-day needs.

Residential care combines personalised support with opportunities for social engagement in a secure setting. By addressing physical needs while fostering emotional well-being and community involvement, these facilities help older adults lead fulfilling lives with dignity and independence.

Difference Between Residential and Nursing Care

Residential care and nursing care are two distinct types of care options available for individuals requiring support with activities of daily living. Whilst both provide a supportive environment, the primary difference lies in the level of medical care provided.

Residential Care

Residential care homes offer comprehensive support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility, alongside a wide range of additional services tailored to individual needs. These homes provide a nurturing environment for individuals who require assistance with personal care but do not need continuous medical supervision.

Residential care encompasses far more than basic personal assistance. Our trained care staff provide specialist support for residents living with dementia, including person-centred approaches to manage behaviours and maintain dignity. We also offer compassionate end-of-life and palliative care, ensuring comfort and emotional support during this sensitive time.

Medication management is a key component of residential care, with trained staff able to administer routine medications safely and monitor compliance. For short-term or routine medical conditions, including wound care management, support is provided by the community nursing team who visit regularly to deliver specialist treatments whilst maintaining continuity within the familiar residential environment.

District nurses are readily available to provide additional medical support when required, ensuring residents receive appropriate healthcare whilst remaining in their chosen home. This integrated approach means that many health needs can be effectively managed within residential care without the need for more intensive nursing provision.

Nursing Care

Nursing care homes provide a higher level of care that includes 24-hour medical support. These facilities have registered nurses on site at all times, supported by care assistants, to manage complex medical conditions, administer medications, and perform medical procedures such as wound care or intravenous therapy. Nursing homes cater to individuals with chronic health conditions, those requiring post-surgical care, or those needing ongoing palliative care. The presence of qualified nurses allows for immediate medical intervention and continuous health monitoring, making nursing care ideal for those with significant and complex medical needs.

Dual-Registered Care Homes

Some care homes, such as those in the Tanglewood group, are dual-registered, meaning they offer both residential and nursing care. This flexibility is particularly beneficial as it allows residents to remain in the same familiar environment even if their care needs change over time. For instance, a resident initially requiring only personal care can seamlessly transition to nursing care within the same home if their health needs become more complex. This continuity of care helps reduce stress and disruption for both residents and their families.

Key Differences

• Level of Medical Care: Residential care provides comprehensive personal support, medication management, dementia care, and palliative care with community nursing support when needed, whilst nursing care offers continuous on-site medical supervision and complex medical interventions.
• Staff Qualifications: Residential care homes are staffed by trained caregivers with access to visiting healthcare professionals, whereas nursing homes employ registered nurses alongside care assistants.
• Cost: Nursing care typically costs more due to the higher level of continuous medical support required and the presence of qualified nursing staff.
• Care Needs: Residential care is suitable for those needing support with activities of daily living, routine medication management, dementia support, and end-of-life care with community nursing backup. Nursing care is designed for individuals with complex ongoing medical needs requiring continuous supervision and immediate medical intervention.

Both types of care offer a supportive environment with 24-hour assistance, but the choice between them depends on the individual’s specific health and care requirements. Dual-registered care homes like Tanglewood provide a flexible and reassuring option for those whose needs may evolve over time.

Read our complete guide on the differences between a care home and a nursing home for more information.

Dementia Residential Care

For individuals living with dementia, residential care facilities offer specialised services tailored to meet their unique cognitive and behavioural needs. These services often include Dementia Care Communities designed to provide a safe, stimulating environment that supports residents’ overall well-being.

Dementia residential care homes focus on creating a supportive environment that addresses the complex challenges associated with dementia. Key features of these specialised services include:

• Dementia Care Communities: These units are specifically designed to manage the effects of dementia, providing a secure and familiar setting that minimises confusion and anxiety. Team Members are trained to understand and respond to the unique needs of residents with dementia, ensuring they receive personalised care that respects their dignity and promotes independence.
• Trained Team Members: Care teams in dementia care homes undergo extensive training in dementia care, enabling them to provide compassionate and effective support. They are skilled in managing behaviours associated with dementia, such as agitation or wandering, and use therapeutic techniques to de-escalate distress.
• Personalised Care Plans: Each resident’s care plan is tailored to their individual needs, preferences, and life history. This person-centred dementia approach ensures that activities and interventions are meaningful and engaging, helping residents maintain cognitive function and emotional well-being.
• Safe and Stimulating Environment: Facilities are designed with dementia-friendly features such as clear signage, secure outdoor spaces, and calming interiors. These environments help reduce anxiety and confusion, allowing residents to feel safe and comfortable.

Benefits of Dementia Residential Care

Residential dementia care offers numerous benefits for both residents and their families:

• 24/7 Support: Residents receive continuous care and supervision, providing peace of mind for families who may worry about their loved one’s safety at home.
• Social Interaction: Care homes foster social connections through group activities and communal dining, helping combat loneliness and isolation.
• Structured Daily Routine: A consistent daily schedule helps residents feel secure and supported, reducing stress and anxiety.
• Family Support: Residential care allows family members to focus on their relationship with their loved one, rather than being solely responsible for caregiving duties.

Tanglewood Care Homes Approach to Dementia Care

At Tanglewood Care Homes, we are committed to providing high-quality dementia care. Our teams are trained to support individuals with dementia, ensuring they feel settled and safe. By integrating Join Dementia Research into our care practices, we aim to enhance the lives of our residents and contribute to ongoing research efforts. Our approach emphasises person-centred care, maintaining dignity, and promoting independence, creating a nurturing environment where residents can thrive.

Continence Care in Residential and Nursing Homes

Continence care is an essential aspect of residential care, focusing on maintaining dignity and hygiene for residents with incontinence issues. This includes access to specialised equipment and trained team members.

Continence care is a critical aspect of residential and nursing care, focusing on maintaining residents’ dignity and hygiene while managing incontinence issues. This care involves a comprehensive approach that includes assessment, physical support, advice, and access to specialised equipment and supplies.

Key Components of Continence Care

1. Initial Assessment and Care Planning: A thorough evaluation of the resident’s medical history, physical abilities, and behavioural patterns is essential. This assessment helps develop a personalised care plan addressing the underlying causes of incontinence and aligning with the resident’s preferences and needs.
2. Specialised Interventions: Addressing underlying medical conditions such as UTIs, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease. Collaboration with specialists like urologists or physiotherapists may be necessary.
3. Mobility and Accessibility: Ensuring bathrooms are easily accessible with features like grab bars, raised toilet seats, and non-slip mats. Mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs are provided if needed.
4. Resident Dignity and Privacy: Maintaining privacy during care tasks and encouraging independence whenever possible. Care plans should respect residents’ preferences and promote their participation in care decisions.
5. Emotional Support: Recognising the emotional impact of incontinence, such as embarrassment or frustration. Team members provide reassurance and avoid stigmatising the condition.
6. Team Training and Education: Ensuring the team are trained to manage incontinence effectively, focusing on sensitive communication and infection prevention. Regular updates on best practices and new technologies are essential.
7. Monitoring and Ongoing Evaluation: Regularly reviewing care plans to assess effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Monitoring for complications like infections or skin irritation is crucial.

Choosing a Residential Care Home

Choosing the right residential care home is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. It involves assessing the individual’s care needs, researching available options, visiting potential homes, and understanding the standards and regulations that govern care homes. Here’s a detailed guide to help families make an informed choice.

Assessing Care Needs

The first step in selecting a residential care home is to assess the individual’s care needs. This assessment identifies the level of support required and ensures the chosen care home can meet those needs effectively.

1. Key Areas to Evaluate:

   • Medical Conditions: Determine if the individual has chronic illnesses, mobility issues, or cognitive impairments such as dementia.
   • Daily Living Activities: Assess their ability to perform tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and managing medications independently.
   • Social and Emotional Needs: Consider whether they would benefit from social engagement or require emotional support due to isolation or anxiety.

2. Professional Input:

   A formal care needs assessment can be requested through your local council. This assessment is carried out by a trained professional who evaluates physical, emotional, and psychological needs. It also identifies whether adaptations (e.g., grab rails or stairlifts) could help maintain independence or if residential care is the best option.

3. Carer’s Assessment:

   If a family member or friend is providing unpaid care, they are entitled to a carer’s assessment to determine what support they might need to continue in their role.

Researching Options

Once you have a clear understanding of the individual’s needs, begin researching residential care homes in your area.

Types of Care Homes:

• Residential care homes provide personal care and support with daily activities.
• Dual-registered homes offer both residential and nursing care, allowing residents to transition seamlessly if their needs change over time.

Online Resources:

Use directories such as Carehome.co.uk or EAC Housing Care to locate care homes near you. These platforms include reviews, inspection ratings from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and details about available services.

Recommendations:

Ask friends, family members, or healthcare professionals for recommendations based on their experiences.

Inspection Ratings:

Check CQC reports for each shortlisted home. The CQC assesses care homes on five key areas: safety, effectiveness, responsiveness, caring approach, and leadership. Homes are rated as Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, or Inadequate.

What To Know Before Visiting Care Homes

Visiting potential care homes is crucial for gaining first-hand insight into their environment and services. Aim to visit multiple homes and ask detailed questions during your visits.

• What to Observe:

  • Cleanliness and Safety: Ensure the home is clean, well-maintained, and adheres to safety standards such as fire protocols and accessible facilities.
  • Care Team Interaction: Observe how the care team engage with residents – are they friendly, respectful, and attentive? A low team member-to-resident ratio often indicates more personalised care.
  • Resident Well-Being: Do residents appear happy and engaged? Are they participating in activities or socialising with others?

• Questions to Ask:

  • What types of activities are offered? Are there opportunities for hobbies or outings?
  • How are meals prepared? Can dietary preferences be accommodated?
  • Are visitors allowed at any time? Are there facilities for overnight stays?
  • What happens if a resident’s needs change over time?

Understanding Care Home Regulations and Standards

Residential care homes in England are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which ensures that all facilities meet legal requirements for safety, quality of care, and resident well-being.

National Minimum Standards:

These standards cover areas such as care team qualifications, hygiene protocols, emergency procedures, and resident involvement in decision-making. Key points include:

• Residents should have personalised care plans tailored to their needs.
• Homes must have sufficient team members trained in elderly care.
• Facilities should promote independence while ensuring safety (e.g., grab rails, non-slip flooring).

Inspection Reports:

CQC inspection reports provide valuable insights into how well a home performs across critical areas. Look for evidence of continuous improvement and high-quality leadership.

Complaints Procedures:

Ensure there is a clear process for raising concerns or complaints if issues arise after moving into the home.

Tanglewood Care Homes’ Approach

At Tanglewood Care Homes, the focus is on creating a nurturing environment that fosters independence, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Their approach to care is deeply rooted in person-centred principles, ensuring that residents are actively involved in decisions about their care and daily activities,. Personalised care plans are developed collaboratively with residents and their families, respecting individual preferences and promoting autonomy.

Tanglewood also employs innovative tools like the Oomph On Demand platform to enhance residents’ quality of life. This platform offers a range of activities tailored to residents’ interests, from chair yoga to virtual tours, ensuring they remain engaged and fulfilled.

The Role of Family in Residential Care

Family involvement plays a crucial role in residential care, significantly impacting the well-being and quality of life of residents. By maintaining a strong connection with their loved ones, families can help preserve residents’ sense of identity and ensure they feel valued and supported throughout their care journey.

Keeping Spirits High

Regular visits and communication are essential for boosting residents’ morale and combating feelings of loneliness and isolation. Simple gestures such as a friendly chat, a phone call, or a handwritten letter can make a significant difference in a resident’s day. These interactions remind them that they are loved and valued, which is vital for maintaining emotional well-being.

• Quality Over Quantity: While frequent visits are beneficial, it’s the quality of these interactions that matters most. Engaging in meaningful activities together, such as reading a book or looking through old photos, can create lasting memories and enhance the resident’s sense of connection to their family and the outside world.
• Emotional Support: Family members can provide emotional support during challenging times, such as when residents are adjusting to their new environment or dealing with health setbacks. This support helps residents feel more secure and less anxious about their situation.

Speaking Up for Needs

Families are often best placed to advocate for their loved one’s needs and preferences. They can communicate specific requirements or concerns to the care team, ensuring that residents receive personalised care that respects their individuality.

• Advocacy Role: Family members can act as advocates by sharing insights into their loved one’s history, likes, and dislikes. This information helps care members tailor care plans to meet unique needs and preferences, ensuring that residents feel understood and respected.
• Feedback and Communication: Regular communication with care members allows families to provide feedback on the quality of care and identify any areas for improvement. This collaborative approach ensures that residents receive the best possible support and that any issues are addressed promptly.

Partnering with Care Team Members

Collaboration between families and the care team is essential for delivering high-quality, personalised care. By working together, families can ensure that their loved ones receive care that aligns with their needs and preferences.

• Care Planning: Families are encouraged to participate in care planning, sharing personal insights and preferences to ensure that care plans reflect the resident’s true needs. This proactive involvement helps build trust between families and team members, leading to a more effective care experience.
• Building Relationships: Developing strong relationships with the care team allows families to stay informed about their loved one’s daily life and well-being. This connection also facilitates open communication, enabling families to raise concerns or suggest adjustments to care plans as needed.

Additional Ways to Contribute

Beyond these core roles, families can contribute in several other meaningful ways:

• Creating a Sense of Home: Families can help make a care home feel more like home by bringing personal items such as photos, favourite furniture, or familiar scents. These touches can provide comfort and familiarity, reducing feelings of displacement.
• Encouraging Social Connections: Families can encourage their loved ones to engage in social activities within the care home, such as group outings or communal events. This helps maintain social connections and supports mental health.
• Adapting to Changing Needs: As residents’ needs evolve, families must be flexible and adapt their involvement accordingly. This might involve adjusting visit schedules or participating in different activities that better suit their loved one’s current abilities.

Family involvement is indispensable in residential care, enhancing residents’ quality of life by providing emotional support, advocating for their needs, and collaborating with the care team. By staying engaged and committed, families can ensure that their loved ones feel valued, supported, and connected throughout their care journey.

Financial Planning and Support for Residential Care

Understanding the costs associated with residential care is essential. This includes room fees, meals, and additional services. Financial planning and exploring funding options can help manage these expenses.

At Tanglewood Care Homes, we understand the importance of financial planning when considering residential care. It involves understanding the various funding options available and making informed decisions to manage costs effectively. Here’s a detailed overview of the financial planning process and the resources available to support you.

Funding Options

1. Self-Funding (Private Funding):
   • Savings and Investments: Individuals can use their savings, investments, or pension funds to cover care costs. This is a common approach for those with sufficient financial resources.
   • Property Sale: Selling a property is a viable method, though it may not be suitable if a spouse or partner resides in the home.
   • Pension Income: State and private pensions can be used to contribute to care home fees.
2. Local Authority Funding (Government Assistance):
   • Means-Tested Care: Local authorities conduct a means test to assess eligibility for funding by evaluating income, savings, and assets. If assets are below £23,250, individuals may qualify for financial assistance.
   • Deferred Payment Agreements: These allow councils to pay for care home fees, which are repaid later from the sale of a home or estate.
3. NHS Continuing Healthcare:
   • This option is available for individuals with significant and complex healthcare needs. A comprehensive assessment is required to determine eligibility, and if approved, NHS Continuing Healthcare fully covers the cost of care.
4. Care Annuities:
   • These financial products provide a guaranteed income stream to cover care home fees, offering protection against rising costs. Annuities can be purchased using a lump sum, providing a regular income that is often tax-free if paid directly to the care home.
5. Charitable and Non-Profit Organisations:
   • Certain charities and non-profit organisations offer grants or financial aid to individuals requiring assistance with care home costs. For example, the RAF Benevolent Fund may assist with top-up fees or provide social inclusion grants.

Financial Planning Strategies

To prepare for care home costs, consider the following strategies:

• Seek Professional Advice: Consulting with financial advisors or care experts can help navigate the complex landscape of care home funding and ensure you are making the most of available options. Organisations like the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) accredit advisers who specialise in care fees planning.
• Capital Protection: Ensuring that a portion of your assets is protected can be beneficial if care needs change or if you pass away within a certain period.
• Emergency Funds: Maintaining a cash buffer for unexpected expenses or emergencies is advisable.
• Care Fees Planning: Implementing strategies to manage the tax implications associated with funding and paying for care home expenses can help optimise financial resources while ensuring necessary care without undue tax burdens.

At Tanglewood Care Homes, we are committed to transparency and ensuring that families have all the information they need to make informed decisions about their loved one’s care. Our team is always available to discuss any questions you might have regarding our services and fees. We encourage you to contact us directly for specific details on our cost structure and to explore how we can support your financial planning needs.

Person-Centred Care in Residential Settings

Person-centred care is a transformative approach in residential settings, focusing on the unique needs, preferences, and values of each individual. It goes beyond addressing physical health to encompass emotional, social, and psychological well-being. By prioritising what truly matters to residents, person-centred care helps them lead fulfilling lives while feeling valued and understood. At Tanglewood we embed these principles into our daily practices, creating an environment where residents feel respected, empowered, and supported.

The Principles of Person-Centred Care

At its core, person-centred care is built on key principles that guide how support is delivered:

• Respect and Dignity: Treating every resident as an individual with their own identity, preferences, and values. This includes acknowledging their autonomy and ensuring they are involved in decisions about their care.
• Personalised Care Plans: Developing care plans tailored to the resident’s unique needs, abilities, and aspirations. These plans evolve as the resident’s circumstances change.
• Empowerment: Encouraging residents to take an active role in their care and daily activities, fostering independence and self-confidence.
• Holistic Approach: Addressing not only physical needs but also emotional, social, and mental health requirements to ensure overall well-being.

Benefits of Person-Centred Care

The benefits of person-centred care are profound and far-reaching:

1. Improved Health Outcomes: Residents receive care that aligns with their individual needs, leading to better physical health and emotional satisfaction.
2. Enhanced Emotional Well-being: By addressing social and mental health needs alongside physical support, residents experience reduced stress and anxiety.
3. Greater Independence: Focusing on strengths rather than limitations encourages residents to maintain independence for as long as possible.
4. Stronger Relationships: Building trust between residents, care team, and families fosters a positive environment where everyone feels valued.

Tanglewood Care Homes’ Commitment to Person-Centred Care

Tanglewood Care Homes exemplify person-centred care by embedding its principles into every aspect of daily life. One notable example is their partnership with Pubity on the Old Friend Club campaign. This innovative initiative bridges the generational divide by celebrating the wisdom, humour, and vibrant lives of older adults.

The Old Friend Club Campaign

Launched in September 2024, Old Friend Club features Tanglewood residents engaging in activities such as sharing life advice, answering questions about their pasts, and participating in challenges that introduce them to modern trends. This campaign not only entertains but also highlights the enduring relevance and vitality of older adults in today’s culture. Residents from Tanglewood’s Meadows Park, Cloverleaf, and Sleaford Hall Care Homes have become stars of this series, showcasing their stories with humour and heart.

The campaign has achieved phenomenal success, resonating with millions worldwide and challenging outdated stereotypes about care home living. It demonstrates that life in a care home is not just about receiving care – it’s an exciting new chapter filled with connection, adventure, and fulfilment.

Engaging Activities

Tanglewood offers a wide variety of activities designed to enrich residents’ lives while catering to their interests. For example:

• Gardening Clubs: Residents can nurture plants in accessible garden spaces, promoting relaxation and connection with nature.
• Music Therapy: Sessions where residents can sing along or play instruments provide emotional release and cognitive stimulation.
• Art Workshops: Painting or crafting sessions encourage creativity while fostering social interaction.
• Immersive experience
• Bimonthly outings
• Weekly fitness sessions 
• Music festival
• Community events

Compassionate Care Team

Tanglewood’s team is trained not only in professional caregiving but also in understanding the emotional needs of residents. Team members take time to listen to residents’ stories, learn about their past experiences, and build genuine relationships that foster trust.

Family Involvement

Families play an integral role in Tanglewood’s approach to person-centred care. By involving family members in care planning meetings or encouraging regular visits, Tanglewood ensures that residents maintain strong connections with loved ones. Families are also invited to participate in events such as seasonal celebrations or activity days.

Why Choose Tanglewood Care Homes for Residential Care?

Tanglewood Care Homes is dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centred residential care that prioritises the well-being and dignity of every resident. Our expertly trained team understand that each individual has unique needs and preferences, which is why we tailor our care plans to meet these specific requirements. Through daily interactions and personalised activities such as reminiscence therapy, gardening, and music sessions, we ensure that residents feel valued, engaged, and supported.

At Tanglewood, we believe in creating a nurturing environment that fosters independence and promotes a sense of community. Our homes are designed with safety and comfort in mind, featuring layouts that are easy to navigate, secure outdoor spaces, and calming environments to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. We also offer a range of amenities, including on-site cafés, cinemas, and hair salons, which enhance residents’ quality of life and provide opportunities for social interaction.

We believe in fostering strong partnerships with families to create a holistic care experience. We encourage family involvement in care planning and provide regular updates to ensure peace of mind. Our open communication ensures that families feel supported throughout their loved one’s care journey.

With 20 purpose-built care homes across the UK, Tanglewood is more than just a care provider – it’s a community where residents can thrive. Our homes are designed to feel like home, with welcoming spaces that encourage socialising and engagement. From organised outings to communal dining experiences, we strive to create an environment where residents feel connected and valued.

If you are considering residential care for your loved one, we invite you to explore how Tanglewood Care Homes can support you and your family. Contact us today to arrange a visit to one of our welcoming homes and experience first-hand the compassionate care and vibrant community we offer.

To learn more about Tanglewood Care Homes or to arrange a visit to one of our care homes, please call us on 01205 358888 or email us at info@twhealthcare.co.uk. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you find the right care solution for your loved one.