Meet John: the impact of moving from nursing care to residential

First steps

The first three to four months at Ashford Lodge were challenging for both John and the team. However, the team remained patient, accommodating and responsive to his individual needs and behaviours. At times, John would refuse support from team members of certain ethnic backgrounds. In these instances, they worked flexibly by allocating team members John felt more comfortable with to ensure his care needs continued to be met. Team members consistently addressed these behaviours, supporting John to understand that such responses were not appropriate.

Over time, John showed increased acceptance of support and demonstrated a more positive and inclusive approach towards others. To reduce the impact of the social isolation that John had previously experienced, he was gently encouraged to spend time in communal areas and to engage with both team members and other individuals we support.

Ongoing Support

John is a man of good taste and strong opinions. When it comes to food, John has made it very clear that vegetables are not to be trusted, although he will make the occasional exception! He is a big fan of ABBA and Elvis, enjoys going out for drives, trips to the cinema, baking (when the mood takes him), and the occasional visit to the zoo. He also appreciates a good theatre trip and is always up for an outing that involves a bit of entertainment.

John is currently supported on a 1:1 basis to ensure his needs are consistently met and to promote his wellbeing. He is encouraged to engage in daily activities, including going out for walks or short outings. In addition, he is supported to participate in at least one planned trip each week that aligns with his interests.

Despite his earlier challenges, John is now very friendly with other people we support at the home and enjoys being part of the community, especially when there’s an opportunity to socialise or head out for an activity.

John’s progress

The support provided has had a positive impact on John’s overall quality of life. While he continues to have ongoing health challenges, he does not allow these to limit his engagement. John remains willing and motivated to participate in activities, and the team actively support and encourage this to maintain his independence and wellbeing. He has become more socially engaged, spending time with others and participating more confidently in day to day life within the home decisions.

Looking to the future

John would like to continue with his current activities that promote both physical and social engagement and has expressed an interest in going on holiday. We’re currently looking at a Parkdean Resort and supporting him to do this. John enjoys attending the theatre and cinema, as well as watching shows, particularly those related to music.

Overall, the aim is to ensure that John continues to live a fulfilling and active lifestyle, while gradually working towards broader experiences such as holidays and more varied leisure activities.

Johns’s carers thoughts

“Since moving to Ashford Lodge John has improved so much, he engages with team members and has developed a meaningful friendship with another person supported there.”

Becky’s thoughts

“We’re so proud of the progress John has made, he has come so far and overcome so many challenges. John is now sociable and funny and his social skills have improved significantly.”- Support Worker