KURRAJONG Nursing Home residents were entertained by staff members dressing-up as their favourite fairytale characters and reading fairytale books during the home’s Fairytale Day.
Activities coordinator Sandy Barratt said the residents thoroughly enjoyed the day, and one resident joined the festivities by dressing-up as a character from the Lion King.
“Everyone that dressed up was asked to bring in the story of their outfit so I could read the books to the residents. These included Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Robin Hood,” said Ms Barratt.
“Residents really enjoyed reminiscing with hearing the stories and seeing the staff dressed as the characters.
“Comments were very positive especially from one resident who doesn't show enthusiasm for many things. She said, ‘Thank you so much that was most enjoyable’.”
Ms Barratt said it was important to find new and interesting ways to entertain the residents, including dress-up days like Fairytale Day, as well as visits from school children, volunteer visits, pet therapy and outings.
“We have these days to make our residents’ day a little different from the normal day-to-day activities. Some of the residents look forward to the next dress up day,” she said.
“It is also a way for staff to unwind just a little, although still busy, and have a bit of fun and make both other staff and residents laugh. The staff are great and really put a lot of thought into their costumes.”
The Nursing Home hosts a dress-up day every month, and some of these have included Pyjama Day, International Nurses’ Day, Gangster Day (during which residents enjoy an Italian-inspired lunch, Hawaiian Day (with pizza for lunch), and Chinese Day (with a Chinese takeaway lunch).
“In June we had a Royal Day to celebrate the Queen’s birthday where staff dressed up as something Royal. We had Elvis the King, Queen Elizabeth, Freddy Mercury (from Queen), Princesses and more. This was celebrated with a high tea which was prepared by our cooks Sue, Maree and Jaunita,” Ms Barratt said.
