Care home residents set sail on a virtual cruise

Usually residents are able to enjoy lots of outdoor activities and outings, but since lockdown they haven't been able to go on any trips.

The home's staff came up with the idea for the fun, multi-sensory project, which is designed to aid reminiscence, invigorate the senses, and spark conversation. All vital to our health and wellbeing.

Once a week, residents embark on a virtual journey aboard ‘The Good Ship Barford Court’, sampling the traditional food and drinks of each country they visit.

They get to enjoy hearing about the local culture of each destination and listening to traditional music. Some residents have also been learning a little of the different languages spoken.

Staff at the home have been dressing as cabin crew to add to the atmosphere. One talented carer delighted everyone by demonstrating limbo dancing when they virtually disembarked in the Caribbean.

Among the passengers is resident Frank Gearing, 82. He said: “I’m thoroughly enjoying it! It’s been a lot of fun and very interesting too. My favourite destination so far has been Tahiti!”

Fellow resident Flo Edser, 96, added: “I love the music and the atmosphere in the home when we are on our travels. I had great fun doing the limbo, although I couldn’t get down too far.”

Gemma Wheelhouse, activities coordinator at Barford Court, said: “Our residents are having a fantastic time on their travels. It is proving to be a wonderfully stimulating experience for everyone. It has triggered so many happy memories of holidays and travels and sparked some wonderful conversations. It’s doing everyone the world of good!”

RMBI Home Barford Court is run by RMBI Care Co., part of the Masonic Charitable Foundation.

The home is currently able to safely welcome new residents. For more information, please visit: rmbi.org.uk