January 20, 2025

A Wildly Memorable Day at Huntingdon Care Home: The Mobile Zoo Visit

Sameer Chatla

On a sunny afternoon, Huntingdon Care Home transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and curiosity as residents and staff welcomed a very special group of visitors—a mobile zoo! The event, organized to bring joy and unique experiences to the residents, turned out to be a heartwarming success, filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Bringing the Zoo to Huntingdon

For many residents, a trip to the zoo might no longer be feasible. So, the idea of bringing the zoo to them was nothing short of brilliant. The mobile zoo arrived with an incredible lineup of animals, ranging from exotic reptiles to fluffy and friendly mammals. The goal was not just to entertain but to provide an interactive and educational experience that could be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of mobility or age.

A Parade of Fascinating Creatures

Residents had the chance to meet and interact with a variety of animals, each one unique in its own way. The highlights included a gentle tortoise, a colorful parrot that enjoyed mimicking voices, a curious meerkat that instantly became a crowd favorite, and even a surprisingly friendly snake! The animal handlers were exceptional, ensuring everyone felt safe and comfortable while sharing fascinating facts about each creature.

“I never thought I’d be this close to a snake,” said one resident, her face lighting up with a mix of astonishment and delight. “It’s amazing to feel its smooth scales.”

Joyful Moments and Shared Memories

The visit sparked a sense of wonder and joy among the residents. Many of them reminisced about past encounters with animals or shared stories of pets they’d owned over the years. The event became a beautiful opportunity for connection—not just between humans and animals but also among the residents and staff, who bonded over the shared experience.

One of the care home staff remarked, “It’s incredible to see the residents so animated and engaged. Events like these really bring out the best in everyone and create lasting memories.”

Beyond Entertainment: The Therapeutic Benefits

While the visit was undoubtedly entertaining, it also carried therapeutic benefits. Interacting with animals has been shown to reduce stress, alleviate feelings of loneliness, and even improve cognitive function in older adults. The tactile experience of petting an animal or the simple act of watching them interact with their environment can have profound calming effects.

A Community Effort

The mobile zoo visit was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the care home’s management, the dedicated staff, and the mobile zoo team. Their shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents was evident in every detail, from the careful selection of animals to the seamless organization of the event.

Looking Ahead

The success of the mobile zoo visit has inspired Huntingdon Care Home to explore more creative and engaging activities for their residents. From gardening workshops to live musical performances, the team is dedicated to ensuring that life at Huntingdon is filled with joy, discovery, and meaningful connections.

As the day came to an end, the smiles on the residents’ faces and the buzz of animated conversations were clear indicators of the event’s impact. The mobile zoo may have packed up and left, but the memories it created will undoubtedly linger for a long time.

In the words of one resident, “It’s days like these that remind us how wonderful life can be.”

Stay tuned for more updates and heartwarming stories from Huntingdon Care Home by following our Facebook Page

From letters to handmade gifts, Huntingdon House and Harvey House show that the smallest gestures can create the biggest smiles. 🌸✉️💛

Huntingdon Court Residential Home and Harvey House: The Little Things That Mean the Most

At Huntingdon Court Residential Home, we believe it’s the little things in life that create the biggest smiles. A thoughtful word, a shared memory, or even a handmade gift can brighten someone’s day more than we often realise. Recently, our residents had the joy of exchanging letters and gifts with our sister home, Harvey House, and it reminded us just how powerful these small gestures can be. A Letter That Sparked Smiles Not long ago, Huntingdon Court Residential Home received a heartfelt letter from Harvey House. Residents gathered together as we read the kind words aloud, sparking conversations, laughter, and stories of their own days of letter writing. For many, it brought back memories of a time when the post arriving was the highlight of the day—when families and friends shared news, updates, and love across carefully chosen stationery and handwritten words. It was more than just a letter. It was a reminder of connection, of friendship, and of being thought about. These are feelings that mean so much to our residents, making them feel valued and included in something bigger. A Gift from the Garden In return, our residents wanted to do something special for Harvey House. The idea of creating a handmade dried flower picture came to life—flowers carefully picked from our beautiful garden here at Huntingdon Court Residential Home, dried, arranged, and framed with love. For many of our residents, the activity itself was just as rewarding as the gift. Collecting flowers from the garden gave everyone a chance to enjoy the sunshine, talk about their favourite blooms, and reminisce about gardens they once tended themselves. The process of crafting the dried flower picture was equally meaningful, as residents shared stories, helped each other, and felt the pride of creating something unique with their own hands. The finished piece was more than just a decoration. It carried the fragrance of our garden, the care of our residents, and the spirit of Huntingdon Court Residential Home—a home filled with thoughtfulness and creativity. Words from the Heart To make the gift even more special, our residents paired it with a handwritten letter and a heartfelt poem. This extra touch showed not only gratitude for Harvey House’s kind letter but also the joy our residents felt in giving something back. In an age where most communication happens digitally, taking the time to write with pen and paper feels especially meaningful. There’s something deeply personal about handwriting—every curve and line tells a story, and the thought behind each word makes the message timeless. Building Bonds Across Homes Exchanges like this one with Harvey House highlight the importance of community and connection, not only within Huntingdon Court Residential Home but also with our wider family of sister homes. They help create bonds that go beyond walls and remind our residents that they are part of a larger, supportive community. Residents now look forward eagerly to receiving the next letter in return. They talk about it over tea, wonder what stories or drawings might be included, and feel the excitement of waiting for a surprise. This anticipation adds something special to their days and gives everyone a sense of belonging. The Power of the Little Things It is often said that happiness lies in the little things, and here at Huntingdon Court Residential Home, we see this truth every day. A small act of kindness, like a handwritten note or a handmade gift, can uplift spirits, create joy, and strengthen friendships. These little things are not little at all—they are the heart of what makes life meaningful. They bring comfort, spark memories, and remind residents that they are loved and appreciated. Looking Ahead with Joy At Huntingdon Court Residential Home, we are committed to finding creative and thoughtful ways to enrich the lives of our residents. Whether it’s through letter writing, crafting, gardening, or simply sharing stories over a cup of tea, our goal is always to make every day special. The dried flower picture and the letter to Harvey House were not just gifts; they were symbols of friendship, love, and community. They showed that even the simplest gestures can create lasting happiness. As we await the next exchange, our residents are already thinking of more little ways to spread joy. Because here at Huntingdon Court Residential Home, we know it’s the little things that truly mean the most. For more details about the homes, visit our websites – Huntingdon Court Residential Home | Harvey House Stay updated by following our Facebook pages – Huntingdon Court Residential Home Facebook Page | Harvey House Facebook Page

At Lenthall House, our uplifting wellbeing sessions show how simple exercises—like gentle pedalling and beanbag games—boost health, happiness, and community spirit.

Lenthall House Uplifting Wellbeing: Simple Exercises that Make a Big Difference

At Lenthall House, we believe that health and happiness go hand in hand—and that even the smallest steps can create meaningful change. That’s why we put such a strong focus on exercise and movement for our residents. Staying active in later life doesn’t need to be complicated or tiring. Instead, it’s about making activity accessible, enjoyable, and tailored to each individual’s needs. Our latest exercise sessions highlighted exactly that. From gentle pedalling on small seated exercise bikes to tossing colourful beanbags, our residents took part in activities that were simple, engaging, and—most importantly—fun. The smiles and laughter in the room proved that wellbeing truly comes alive when people move together. The Transformative Power of Gentle Exercise At Lenthall House, we know that the word exercise can sometimes feel intimidating. But exercise doesn’t have to mean running marathons or lifting heavy weights. In fact, some of the most effective activities for older adults are those that focus on gentle movements and steady progress. Gentle exercise brings a whole host of benefits, such as: Improving flexibility and mobility in everyday tasks Strengthening muscles and protecting joints Enhancing balance, reducing the risk of falls Supporting circulation and heart health Boosting mood and mental wellbeing But the transformative part goes beyond physical health. When our residents come together to move, stretch, or pedal, they are also connecting with one another. They cheer each other on, share in little victories, and leave the session feeling brighter and more confident. Making Movement Enjoyable at Lenthall House What makes our exercise sessions unique is the way we keep them light-hearted and inclusive. We understand that every resident has different abilities and comfort levels, so we offer a range of activities to suit everyone. For some, the pedal exerciser provided a chance to strengthen their legs at their own pace. For others, tossing beanbags into a basket added an element of colour, fun, and coordination. These activities may look simple, but the benefits are far-reaching. Small, consistent movements build strength and energy over time, helping residents feel more capable and independent in their daily lives. And because we keep things playful, participation is something residents genuinely look forward to. Whether it’s celebrating a successful beanbag throw or pedalling for a few minutes longer, each achievement brings a sense of pride. More Than Just Physical Activity While the physical benefits of exercise are clear, at Lenthall House we also recognise the emotional and social value of these group sessions. They are about more than just keeping fit—they are about creating an uplifting environment where residents can laugh, share stories, and feel part of something bigger. A strong sense of community is built in these moments. The encouragement between residents, the collective energy of the group, and the joy of shared accomplishments make these sessions deeply rewarding. For many, exercise becomes less about the movement itself and more about the feeling of connection it creates. Looking Toward the Future The success of these wellbeing sessions inspires us to continue exploring new and creative ways to get our residents moving. From chair yoga and dance sessions to games that blend fun with fitness, we are always looking for opportunities to keep activity fresh and engaging. At Lenthall House, we understand that wellbeing is a journey, not a destination. By offering residents fun and achievable ways to stay active, we empower them to enjoy the transformative effects of movement—day by day, step by step. A Home Where Wellbeing Thrives Ultimately, our goal is simple: to make Lenthall House a place where every resident feels cared for, supported, and inspired to live fully. Wellbeing is at the heart of our approach, and exercise is just one of the many ways we bring joy and vitality into daily life. As our residents pedalled, stretched, and tossed their beanbags, it was clear to see that small movements can have a truly transformative impact. At Lenthall House, we’ll continue to nurture both body and spirit—because when our community thrives, every day becomes brighter. To find our stories and updates, follow Lenthall House Facebook page here For more updates, head over to our website here

At Kirby House, the smell of baking is matched only by the warmth of friendship. From mixing bowls to shared slices, every bake brings us closer together

Kirby House and the Small Joys of Baking Together

At Kirby House, the smell of freshly baked cakes and biscuits doesn’t just fill the kitchen—it fills hearts. Baking is more than just a pastime here; it’s a cherished tradition, a chance for residents to connect, share stories, and enjoy the small but deeply satisfying moments that make life richer. The Magic of Baking in a Home Setting Baking has a unique way of bringing people together. It’s a hands-on, sensory experience that sparks conversation and memories. For many of our residents, baking is tied to fond recollections—Sunday afternoons with family, festive holiday preparations, or learning special recipes from parents and grandparents. At Kirby House, we’ve embraced baking as a regular activity because it’s as much about the process as it is about the result. The gentle rhythm of stirring, the soft feel of flour between fingers, and the anticipation as the oven timer ticks down—these moments create a sense of calm and joy that everyone can share. A Recipe for Connection Recently, our kitchen buzzed with excitement as residents came together to bake a batch of biscuits and a sponge cake. Some took on the role of measuring ingredients, others mixed and stirred, and of course, there were plenty of volunteers for “quality control” when the time came to taste the results. It wasn’t just about making something delicious; it was about the conversations that flowed in between. Residents swapped tips, compared family recipes, and reminisced about their own baking adventures from years gone by. In that kitchen, friendships grew a little stronger, and laughter came easily. Why Baking Matters at Kirby House We know that the emotional and social benefits of activities like baking are just as important as the end product. Baking engages multiple senses—sight, smell, touch, and taste—which can be particularly meaningful for older adults. It can also stir up positive memories, promote mindfulness, and encourage collaboration. At Kirby House, our goal is to create a homely environment where residents feel valued and involved. Activities like baking aren’t just “something to do”—they are opportunities for residents to be active participants in their community. The shared sense of achievement when a tray of golden biscuits emerges from the oven is a joy in itself. Small Joys with Big Impact One of the loveliest parts of our baking afternoons is seeing how proud residents are to share their creations. Plates of warm biscuits make their way to the lounge, slices of sponge cake are offered around, and the atmosphere becomes just that little bit warmer. It’s in these moments—over a shared plate of treats and a cup of tea—that we see the real magic of Kirby House. The small joys of baking together ripple out into the rest of the day, leaving smiles and sweet memories behind. Keeping Traditions Alive Many of our residents grew up in a time when baking was an essential skill and a central part of home life. By making it a regular part of life at Kirby House, we’re not just creating tasty treats—we’re helping to keep those traditions alive. We often hear residents say, “I haven’t made this in years!” and watch their faces light up as they roll out dough or decorate a cake. It’s a reminder that these skills and memories are still very much a part of who they are. Looking Forward to the Next Bake Baking days have become something to look forward to at Kirby House. Whether it’s seasonal treats for Christmas, a birthday cake for a fellow resident, or simply biscuits for afternoon tea, these sessions are a celebration of togetherness. Our residents know that when the mixing bowls come out, good things—both edible and emotional—are on the way. Click Here and follow our Facebook page for heartwarming stories and the latest happenings at Kirby House. Visit our website to discover how Kirby House creates a warm and welcoming home for every resident.

Leicestershire County Care