I never thought in a million years I could settle in a care home..
Last week, we shared a letter from Georgie, who is 85 in January and has been a resident at Ardath care home in Bexhill for nine years. This week Georgie shares with us more about her life and offers her advice to anybody looking at making the decision to move themselves or a loved one into care.
“Most of my years have been spent travelling with my husband when he was in the army. He served 25 years. I had a lovely home in Hastings, a big Victorian house by the park. When my daughter left home, I used to have students in and worked at the local kindergarten for a bit.
I was very very depressed when I moved in. I’d had a heart attack and my husband was looking after me, and then he died. I could have gone to the Royal British Legion home but I preferred Ardath. It’s like a family here.
It took me a long time when I first came here. I didn’t come out of my room for nearly two years. One afternoon I heard Ryan (a local entertainer who visits the home) sing. I went down and he welcomed me. I’m very good at tunes and knowing what they are, so we became friends.
Then I just started to join in everything. I’m really happy here now, I’ve made lots of friends and I just feel so comfortable. I can come and go as I please.
I just love all the staff, there isn’t one of them that I couldn’t get on with. We’ve so many activities that I really enjoy, the singing and the quizzes which I love; I think the English language is amazing.
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to not shut yourself away in your room, join in and be part of it. Even if you just come in for respite and try it. I never thought in a million years with the life I’ve led that I could settle in an old peoples home, but I have. I could go and live with either of my daughters' but I don’t want to. I look forward to every day now.”
With thanks to Georgie.
If you or a loved one are looking for a short stay at Ardath, we are currently offering one week free of charge to those staying with us for two weeks or more between now and 28 February 2020.