Hazelwood Bids Farewell to Summer with a Festive Fete
Hazelwood Care Home recently hosted a heartwarming "Goodbye Summer Fete" that brought together residents, families, staff, and the local community for a fun-filled afternoon. The event, held on Saturday, September 7th, created a joyful atmosphere as everyone enjoyed the last vestiges of summer and celebrated the strong community spirit at Hazelwood.
A Vibrant Celebration on the Green
The fete, held on the green in front of the care home, added a touch of community charm to the festivities. Live music with beachy summer tunes set the tone, while an ice cream van, a tempting BBQ, and a creative cocktail bar kept spirits high. Children enjoyed the coconut shy, adults tested their luck at the tombola, and everyone captured memories in the photo booth. The event was a true celebration of togetherness and the end of a wonderful summer season.
Hazelwood's thoughtful planning ensured the fete's success. Recognising that many families enjoy vacations during the school holidays, the event was strategically scheduled for after the children returned to school. This allowed for maximum participation and created a true sense of community involvement.
Strengthening Bonds and Building Memories
The fete created a unique opportunity for residents to connect with their loved ones and the wider community. Families and friends gathered at their own tables, sharing laughter, stories, and delicious food with their cherished residents. The event also brought the Hazelwood team closer together, as everyone pitched in to make the day a success. "It was a joy to see the connections being made and the smiles on everyone's faces," remarked Allison Pettican, Home Manager.
Finding Connection and Combating Isolation
Loneliness and social isolation are common challenges for older adults, especially those who may have limited mobility or face health challenges. The Goodbye Summer Fete provided a vital opportunity for residents of Hazelwood to connect with their loved ones, friends, and members of the local community.
The shared laughter, conversations, and activities created a sense of belonging and camaraderie, reminding everyone of the importance of social connection. Studies have shown that regular social interaction can significantly improve mental health, reduce feelings of depression, and even boost cognitive function in older adults.
The festive atmosphere, live music, and engaging activities of the fete created a memorable experience for residents. The simple act of enjoying a delicious ice cream or participating in a fun game can spark joy and create lasting memories. These positive experiences are essential for maintaining emotional well-being and contribute towards a sense of purpose and happiness, especially for those living with dementia or other cognitive challenges.
The Goodbye Summer Fete is just one example of Hazelwood's dedication to providing holistic care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of its residents. The home's focus on creating a supportive and engaging environment, where residents can connect with others, pursue their interests, and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, is evident in every aspect of their care philosophy.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
The fete also served as a fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with the generous contributions of attendees resulting in an impressive £200 raised for this wonderful charity.
The Hazelwood team expresses its sincere gratitude to everyone who attended, volunteered, and donated to make the Goodbye Summer Fete a resounding success.
About Hazelwood Care Home
Hazelwood Care Home is a modern yet cosy established care home located in the lovely north Kent countryside. With a dedicated team of experts, Hazelwood provides a loving and supportive atmosphere where residents can live a full, meaningful, and enjoyable life.
