Archive for the ‘Art’ Category

At Rose Lodge we are much inspired by David Shear’s work on dementia care. One of his themes is about reducing the barriers that can exists between carers and residents. Uniforms are one such barrier. They can make residents feel they are in some kind of instituation such as a hospital (and wouldn’t that make anyone feel ill and somehat passive ?). And it can also make carers feel more detached than we want them to be at Rose where we encourage real relationship between carers and residents, and our aim is  to create an environment where residents and carers live and work together. Not quite like home, but more like a homely social club where you can stay the night.

A few weeks ago we started a trial where care staff wear normal clothes instead of uniforms and my sense is that this is already helping to create a more supportive and comfortable social environment for the residents.

Like today, when carers and residents were enjoying each other;s company during a craft activity. Lovely!

We have added Yoga to the programme a few weeks ago, which is going very well. Art isn’t on the programme as a specific activity, though several residents do practice their art at Rose Lodge. If anyone knows of an art teacher who would like to lead an art class once a week then please let us know.

…Rene and June did some painting themselves. In fact Rene now paints regularly. Isn’t it wonderful when residents inspire other residents (and carers!) to try something new or re-discover seemingly forgotten pleasures ?

It is easy when you know how. Doreen certainly does and she inspires other residents to do some painting themselves. Fantastic!

Doreen is an accomplished poet, painter, and preacher. She joined us last week and is making a wonderful contribution to life in our little community.  I am negotiating a price for the painting she did last week, I think it will look great in the dining room. She is driving a hard bargain!