Posted
28 September 2020
Respite and Relaxation – Elizabeth’s Story
Elizabeth Knights moved into Edward Moore House Residential Care Home in Gravesend in August, to recuperate for a few weeks following a hospital stay.
A short-term stay in a care home can be an excellent way to recover following a hospital admission, it’s also incredibly beneficial for providing respite for a caregiver, or ensuring a loved one is well looked after and safe, whilst taking a holiday. In August, Elizabeth found herself ready to leave hospital but not quite well enough to return home to her husband, George, so she arranged a respite stay at Edward Moore House for six weeks.
Elizabeth was a little bit anxious at first, particularly as she would be away from George for so long but with some support from the staff and fellow residents, she settled in well. Elizabeth and George spoke on the phone every day and George was able to visit Elizabeth a couple of times a week using the home’s marquee in the garden. Whilst the pair found it difficult to be apart for so long, after six weeks she was well enough to head home to George.
On her last day at the home, Elizabeth said: ”It has been very nice staying here, it is so relaxed and the staff have been very kind to me. I am glad to be going home but I will miss everyone.”
Melanie Martin, Deputy Manager at Edward Moore House added: “During the first few days of a respite stay residents can find it difficult to settle in but with a bit of encouragement from the staff, Elizabeth was joining in with activities and enjoying talking to the other residents, which she found a great comfort to help with her recovery and relieve her anxieties.
“We have spoken to families recently who could really benefit from a short stay with us but they are understandably hesitant, due to the current situation. However, we have developed a protection period whereby we ensure the first few days of a resident’s stay are as comfortable as possible, including additional visits from staff, providing lots of entertainment resources and the ability to arrange visits in our marquee, following a negative test. We have found that by developing our protection period, we can make the transition as stress free and welcoming as possible for all new residents, whether short term or permanent.”
