On the write track!
Elaine Morris was one of the first residents to move into Langtree Care Home after it opened in June.
Getting to know residents is key, and staff soon realised that one of Elaine’s passions was writing; however, due to Elaine’s Parkinson’s, it was no longer possible.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects movements, causing symptoms like tremors, slowness and muscle stiffness.
The home saw Elaine’s lost passion as an opportunity and invested in a weighted handwriting glove, which can be beneficial for tremors and used for strengthening and rehabilitation activities.
After four weeks of practice and determination, Elaine was confident enough to write a letter to her brother and sister-in-law, who are based in Cornwall.
“It’s been brilliant that I’ve had the support of the staff and been able to use the glove. I love writing letters because they last, and it feels wonderful to post it. It was a long time coming, and it’s not perfect, but at least I can write again!
“I’m so grateful that they’ve found something that can make writing a little easier.”
“It’s built her confidence, and she’s enjoyed being able to put pen to paper again. I brought in some letter-writing stationery, and she wrote three letters before settling on the final one.
“She’s really proud of what she’s done. When we went to post the letter, as we got back in the car, Elaine said, ‘It’s so nice that I’ve been able to do this.’
“Elaine doesn’t have a phone, so the only way she can speak to her brother and sister-in-law is when her daughters are here, so she thinks it’ll really surprise him to get a letter from her.
“It’s been fulfilling to watch her confidence grow, and to see her accomplish something she hasn’t been able to do for a long time has been a truly heartwarming experience.”
Langtree and Millennium Care prioritise non-pharmacological approaches to care, which involve person-centred care, personalised activities, nature and the care of staff in unique roles which promote meaningful engagement that is enjoyable but serves a purpose.
Langtree Care Home specialises in advanced nursing and dementia care and is part of the Standish Care Village. The Village comprises of three homes catering for different needs, which deliver unrivalled continuity in the North West.
To learn more about Langtree, click here.
