One of the most important benefits of moving into a residential care home is the stability and routine it brings in a warm and friendly environment in the community. Not only did it bring Lily*, now in her 50s, lots of new friends, but it also led to a significant reduction in episodes of extreme challenging behaviour.
Said Service Manager Jennifer Harvey: “Lily came from an old-style residential home where she never went out. Since joining us, we’ve undertaken very good risk assessments and she now goes out three times a week with support, something we never foresee she would be able to do.
“When she first came to us she would self harm but now it’s a very rare occurrence. We have lots of strategies in place and she trusts the Lifeways team around her.”
Lily, who has autism and bipolar disorder, has limited communication but understands a lot. Along with others in her residential home, she enjoys frequent activities and day trips around the local area. She enjoys going to the market and buying her own fruit.
Jennifer added: “We provide a lot of activities for our residents but it is important to keep it very structured. They enjoy going to the local library to use the computers, accessing the local college, taking part in sailing, horse riding and music therapy.
“It proves that if you enhance someone’s quality of life, it will make a big difference to their behaviour and improve the atmosphere for everyone else around.”
* Not her real name
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