Autumn activities have been introduced at a care facility in Uckfield to engage residents living with dementia through seasonal creativity.
Hurstwood View, situated in the East Sussex town and operated by Barchester Healthcare, has rolled out an autumn-themed arts and crafts programme on its specialist dementia care unit.
As part of the initiative, residents participated in an outdoor expedition to gather fallen foliage from the grounds.
The collected leaves were subsequently incorporated into mixed-media compositions produced on large-format paper.
The programme was designed to prompt discussion about the transition between seasons while encouraging residents to identify various tree species.
Organisers stated that the exercises aimed to activate recollection and enhance sensory involvement.
General manager Esther Onwuka commented that the sensory-based activities had been well received by residents.
She noted that creative pursuits of this kind offer significant cognitive, emotional and physical advantages for individuals with dementia, contributing to an enhanced overall quality of life.
The facility provides both short-term respite placements and permanent nursing and residential care for people affected by dementia.
Barchester Healthcare operates as one of the country’s largest providers of care services for older adults, promoting independent living with dignity and respect.
The organisation delivers diverse services across its portfolio, accommodating a range of care requirements.
Approximately 11,000 individuals receive support through the provider’s network of 200 homes, spanning brief breaks to extended residential arrangements.