Chair-based Fitness Activities for Seniors

Posted on 17 April 2020 by Ricky

As we age, our bodies start to stiffen up and we lose the natural suppleness of our youth. But as tempting as it might be to enjoy a more sedentary lifestyle, it’s important to avoid getting into a routine that doesn’t include some form of exercise.

The benefits of staying active

We need to do what we can to stay active for longer, and the more we age, the more important this becomes. Here are some chair-based exercises you can try at home.

Of course, when we talk about exercises, we don’t necessarily mean heading out for a run or going to the gym (unless you think that’s within your capabilities!). There are more simple forms of exercise, such as practising gentle yoga, that we can engage with that don’t even require moving from your chair.

It’s important to note though, that when doing any chair-based exercises that you do them from a solid, stable chair that doesn’t have wheels. It also needs to be of a type where you can sit with your feet flat on the floor, with your knees bent at right angles.

Ideally, you’d also use a chair that doesn’t have arms – as this can restrict your range of motion and movement.

Stretching

Amongst the easiest of activities, but also amongst the most effective, stretching can go a long way in helping to ease the aches and pains of ageing. It can also help with other aspects of wellbeing, including ensuring you maintain good posture.

One of the best stretches to help with posture is the chest stretch.

Chest stretch

To do this sit upright, pull your shoulders back and down and extend your arms out to the side.

Then, gently push your chest forward until you feel a stretch across your chest. Hold this pose for 5 to 10 seconds and repeat it 5 times.

Neck Stretch

When we sit down all day, we often get tight neck muscles. Stretching these muscles helps to loosen them.

Whilst sitting in an upright position, look straight ahead of you before reaching across your chest and holding your opposite shoulder with one hand. Then, whilst holding your shoulder down, slowly tilt your head in the direction of the arm that’s doing the holding.

Repeat this movement on the other side, making sure to hold each stretch for 5 seconds. Do this 3 times for each side of your body.

Neck Rotation

This helps to improve the mobility and flexibility of your neck.

Sit up straight, with shoulders down. Stare straight ahead of you, then slowly turn your head towards one shoulder, going as far as you feel is comfortable. Hold this position for 5 seconds, before returning to your starting position. Then repeat this on the opposite side, doing 3 rotations for each.

Upper-body twist

Another simple one that helps to improve flexibility across your upper back.

When sitting upright, with your feet on the floor, cross your arms and reach for your shoulders to form an X shape across your upper body.

Keeping your hips still, turn your upper body to one side, as far as it’s comfortable. Hold this pose for 5 seconds, before repeating on the opposite side. Do this exercise 5 times on each side.

Arm raises

These offer a good method of building strength in your arms (while also offering an example as to why armless chairs are best for these!).

Whilst sitting upright, have your arms hanging down by your sides. Then, with your palms facing forward, slowly raise your arms out to the side and upwards as if you’re doing a big double armed waving motion. Do this for as far as is comfortable, before returning your arms to their starting position.

For maximum effect, it’s important to keep your shoulders down and your arms straight throughout this exercise. It’s also key to monitor your breathing. Make sure to breathe out as you raise your arms, then take a breath in as you lower them to your side. Repeat this movement 5 times.

Creating a new exercise routing

Those are just a few examples of some of the most straightforward chair based exercises. Perhaps start with these initially, before adding additional movements, exercises and stretches to your routine as you build on it.

If you’ve neglected daily exercise in recent times, you should start to notice the difference physically, which will eventually help you to feel better in both body and mind; an essential element of maintaining your overall wellbeing.

What chair-based fitness activities for seniors have you discovered? Drop us a line and share them with us here.

Understanding Parkinson’s – Part II

Posted on 11 April 2020 by Ricky

Recently, we released Understanding Parkinson’s Part I, the first instalment of our focus on Parkinson’s Disease and the effects it has on those suffering, as well as their friends and families. Charlie, MD here at Huntington and Langham, along with his team of expert staff, offer their advice.

Alongside Charlie, Maggie and Louise have also provided some answers. Louise, General Manager, and Maggie, Manager at Huntington House, care for people at our home who are living with Parkinson’s, and so have some personal, expert advice to offer.

Here are some of the insights that we’ve pulled together from providing daily care for those living with the condition.

What are people’s biggest misconceptions about living with Parkinson’s?

There are many misconceptions about Parkinson’s; one of the main ones being that people can no longer achieve what they used to. However, with the right support (i.e. physiotherapists, speech and language therapy), many are able to continue living their lives independently, meaningful, enriched and as safe as possible

Care and support from a family member is invaluable. They know you better than anyone else; your likes and dislikes, and parts of their personality that they may not reveal to anyone else.

They’re likely to trust you more than anyone else they know, so take care to listen wholeheartedly. Often, people with Parkinson’s will open up to their trusted loved ones rather than anyone else.

How can advancements in technology help people living with Parkinson’s?

Technology is another tool we can use to improve the wellbeing and independence of people with Parkinson’s.

When thinking about tools in a care home, people might think of mobility aids or modified cutlery and cups for example, but it can be expanded so much further than that.

For instance, we are about to embark on a live VR (virtual reality) project with Surrey University. This will enable people with limited mobility to join family members on their favourite walk or at a family wedding in real-time, without the anxiety and discomfort of a long day in a wheelchair.

We’ve already trialled some simulation projections (think social VR experience with screens instead of a headset) with Surrey University in their ‘Bringing the Outdoors Indoors’ project. The project immersed people in walks around local landmarks such as Waggoner’s Wells, which are inaccessible by wheelchair. Not only did it give people the sense that they were walking again, but it gave them access to places (and indeed memories) they thought they’d never see again.

How does the model you follow help those with Parkinson’s?

At Huntington and Langham Estate, we’re proud to use The Butterfly Model in our approach to care. It takes a holistic viewpoint, focusing on each individual as a whole; not just their diagnosis.

When a resident with Parkinson’s said they’d always wanted to ride a Harley Davidson, we didn’t chalk it up as an old lady’s dream, we made it happen.

When you live independently, you take risks all the time. But it’s often a different story when you require care support – priorities shift, and when people are making decisions on your behalf the onus often becomes safety.

However, if the person you’re caring for enjoyed taking risks (this particular resident’s favourite story to tell was how her father once caught her climbing on the roof of her house!) then it is important to allow them to continue doing so to keep their spark alive.

At the estate, we ensure that all our residents living with Parkinson’s have a tailored care plan that enables the team to provide individualised care. We have a good relationship with a speech and language therapist who is very experienced in supporting people with Parkinson’s. We often work together to offer the best care for the people who live with us.

How do you support person-centred care with someone living with Parkinson’s disease?

If someone at the estate has Parkinson’s and struggles to eat, but would still like to sit with their friends, a carer will discretely sit with them and support them at the dining table. This helps to maintain their dignity and safety, whilst enabling them to interact and socialise with other people at mealtimes.

When we welcome new people who are living with Parkinson’s, we make sure that we can first meet their needs and keep them safe, whilst enabling them to live the life they wish.

This is the essence of the person-centred approach. We always take care to consider which bedroom would be best for them, ensuring they have adequate space to support their special requirements.

We actively try to get those with Parkinson’s involved with on-site activities – and from doing so, we see positive results.

The most beneficial activities tend to be music playing, engaging with animals that visit (like the ponies), and of course the children. We also like to encourage them to join us for off-site trips – from which, they return home with their whole well being lifted.

At the estate, providing individualised, person-centred care is at the heart of what we do, for all at the home, whatever the ailment.

Get in touch with us today to learn a little more about what we do and let our family look after yours.

Understanding Parkinson’s – Part I

Posted on 30 March 2020 by Ricky

Parkinson’s is a condition we’re familiar with at Huntington and Langham. As something we deal with on a daily basis, the effects on both the individuals and their families are not always widely understood. This is something we endeavour to change…

Providing support to those who need it is of utmost importance to us, be it in the form of nursing care within our home or helpful advice for those who need it most. And so, we sought a little help from our friends at Parkinson’s UK to delve a little deeper into how living with Parkinson’s can affect you or someone you love. The leading charity for Parkinson’s, offering support for those living with Parkinson’s, their aim – much like ours – is to help those with Parkinson’s improve quality of life.

Combining this expert insight, with our practical knowledge of managing Parkinson’s, we’ve created a series of articles to help you provide the best support you can to those who need it most.

What is Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition for which there is currently no cure. It’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, and currently there are around 145,000 people living with Parkinson’s in the UK.

Common symptoms include slowness of movement and muscle stiffness, but there are over 40 symptoms and it affects everyone completely differently.

Some of the less well-known symptoms include:
– Stress and anxiety
– Chronic pain and fatigue
– Loss of smell
– Changes in digestion or sleep

People with Parkinson’s lack a chemical called dopamine, because specific nerve cells inside their brain have died. Dopamine allows messages to be sent to the parts of the brain that coordinate movement.

For those living with Parkinson’s, this means that parts of their brain are unable to work normally. They may find that movements become slower, so it takes longer to do things. This can make everyday activities, such as eating, getting dressed, and using a phone or computer difficult or frustrating.

What’s the link between age and diagnosis?

Parkinson’s can affect anyone at any age. There are around 1,750 people under the age of 50 who have young onset Parkinson’s, but the majority of people will be diagnosed over the age of 60.

How can someone living with Parkinson’s manage and cope better?
The three main treatments to help someone manage their Parkinson’s are:
– Medication
– Exercise
– Therapies

Everyone’s Parkinson’s is unique. So different combinations of medication, exercise and therapies will suit different people. We recommend people talk to their GP, specialist or Parkinson’s nurse to see what works for them. There are lots of ways to connect with people who understand what it means to be living with Parkinson’s.

To find out more, call Parkinson’s UK on 0808 800 0303. You can also join the online community on the forum, and hear other people’s tips, stories and experiences in the online magazine.

Is Parkinson’s hereditary?

It’s very rare for Parkinson’s to run in families. The vast majority of people have what is called ‘idiopathic Parkinson’s’, meaning that there’s no known cause. However, for a small minority of people with Parkinson’s, there is a genetic link.

How does living in a care environment benefit someone with Parkinson’s?

In the advanced stages of Parkinson’s, it’s likely that an individual will need extra support to carry out day-to-day tasks. This may affect their choice of home. They may decide that they could benefit from a care home or from care in their own home to help manage their condition.

A care home will offer more personal care than sheltered housing. As Parkinson’s symptoms progress and your needs increase, a move to a care home may be a necessary consideration.

How do you think activities such as fitness and activity can be of benefit?

Exercise is good for people with Parkinson’s. It can be as important as medication to help people take control of their symptoms and doing just 2.5 hours of exercise a week can even slow the progression of symptoms. However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach and the best exercise to do will depend on the way Parkinson’s affects you.

How does a Parkinson’s diagnosis affect relationships and family life?

Parkinson’s may affect your self-image, mood and how you communicate with others. This may happen if you’re in a casual or committed relationship, or if you’re single. Some people have relationship issues in the early days, when they’re adjusting to diagnosis, while others may run into problems after many years of living with Parkinson’s.

Each person with Parkinson’s has their own experience of the condition. The symptoms you have may be different from other people. It’s important to remember that many people go through sexual and relationship issues at some stage in their life, so any problems you have may have nothing to do with Parkinson’s at all.

How has Parkinson’s research developed? Is a cure looking likely?

In the past 50 years, vital discoveries have been made that have revolutionised our understanding of Parkinson’s and the brain.

Now, thanks to this progress, breakthrough new treatments are being tested in clinical trials that have the potential to slow, stop or even reverse Parkinson’s.

What about family and friends?

Family and friends are often the information seekers and may focus on the person living with Parkinson’s needs rather than their own. It is important that family and friends recognise the impact of Parkinson’s on their lives and prioritise and maintain their own health & wellbeing too. It can be really valuable for family and friends to access support for themselves and connect with others in similar situations to share their experience.

How can Parkinson’s affect day-to-day life?

There is no ‘typical day’ with Parkinson’s. It is a fluctuating condition, so it can change day-to-day or for some people, hour to hour. Because of the range of symptoms involved in Parkinson’s, it also impacts on everyone with the condition differently.

With medication and small adjustments, some people are able to maintain the same standard of life they had before diagnosis for a long time. However, for some people the effects on their daily life will be considerable, for example including pain, not being able to sleep, anxiety and even being unable to move at all for short periods (freezing).

As Parkinson’s is a degenerative condition, people will see their symptoms become worse over time and respond less to medication. This means the impact on daily life will be more noticeable, and ultimately many people will eventually need regular support from health and care professionals.

A huge thank you to Parkinson’s UK for providing the answers to these questions for us. You can read Part II of our series on Understanding Parkinson’s here.

Cheering us up with your Creative Gifts

Posted on 25 March 2020 by Ricky

With the dreaded coronavirus resulting in the closure of schools, shops, and public places across the UK, as well as the restriction of loved ones visiting our homes, we reached out to you, our loyal friends and family to help bring a little intergenerational cheer to our home.

Dozens of you, children and youngsters, shared via email with us messages of encouragement and hope, alongside beautiful artwork.

From drawings and paintings to gingerbread men and lego buildings, we’ve digitally received a plethora of wonderful creations that we’ve printed off and shared with the people at our home.

We have all been truly delighted and inspired by what we have received.

Whilst there’s plenty of space in our 30-acres of garden and woodland, we desperately wanted to keep old of our connection to life outside the estate, especially when it comes to relationships with the younger members of society.

Restricting visits from grandchildren and great grandchildren has been tough for all of us on the estate, so we need to do what we can to maintain those intergenerational relationships.

We’ve had some lovely pictures sent to us for Mother’s Day, drawings of rainbows, flowers, cats, dogs and other animals, as well as supportive messages urging residents to stay safe. These haven’t just been restricted to local youngsters, with some coming from further afield, including a picture collage from Year 1 pupils at Cheltenham College Preparatory School who created artwork on their last day of school before closing.

These gifts have been a real ray of sunshine amongst the gloom. And we’re still very much welcoming more, so if you’d like to share some artwork with us; please do get in touch. Our residents will be thrilled – as will our staff who are continuing to offer vital care services in very difficult circumstances.

How to encourage independent living for the elderly

Posted on 17 March 2020 by Ricky

At our home in Surrey, aging is something we consider a mighty achievement. To reach a grand age is something to be celebrated; and as carers, we love hearing our residents’ life stories.

We all know that aging, unfortunately, comes with its complications – with our physical health often taking the brunt. Health restrictions can often facilitate feelings of helplessness and frustration – but it’s by no means a reason to give up on the goal of independent living.

If your loved one is suffering from a health condition, you might find it difficult to encourage them to regain their confidence and come out of their shell.

So, how can you encourage independent living for the elderly?

Encourage physical activity

For some elderly people, the idea of engaging in exercise may seem unachievable. But there are so many different ways to get moving; many of which can be adapted to suit varying abilities.

To be independent, an individual needs to feel free, with the knowledge and confidence to explore areas outside of their comfort zone.

If your loved one seems reluctant at first to leave their safe space, offer to embark on a gentle outdoor stroll with them once a day. Eventually, if their physical ability allows, they’ll likely want to venture further and try out different routes.

Dancing is another activity popular amongst all age groups. And just like walking, it can be adapted to suit a range of abilities. It’s a great way to meet the need of interacting with others, whilst succeeding to reduce high blood pressure and strengthen the bones.

Engaging in exercise is also a great way to reduce the risk of developing health conditions in the future.

Keep their mind active

Though less visible, our cognitive and mental health is no less important than our physical health. And to remain independent as we enter old age, we need to try and keep our brains sharp whilst maintaining a ‘glass half full’ attitude.

Try encouraging your loved one to stimulate their mind daily – whether that’s presenting them with a puzzle, playing a mentally stimulating game with them, or taking some time to read a book with them.

Our brains are elastic, too, meaning that they never stop growing and changing. They thrive from new information and gaining new skills, so it’s a really good idea to try and encourage your loved one to learn something new. Whether that’s a new instrument, or simply a new fact each day, it’s a sure-fire way to keep the brain active.

For those in need of dementia care, their ability to live independently, as they used to, becomes somewhat halted. But that doesn’t mean that individuals living with dementia are any less deserving of living the most independent lifestyle they can.

In a care home setting, possibilities of independent living are revived. In a safe, secure and supervised environment, individuals can begin to indulge in doing things they love, without compromise to their health.

At the estate, we adopt a holistic approach to health. This means that when it comes to offering care, we view the mind, body and soul as being interconnected. So, when it comes to cognitive health, we also benefit from eating healthy, wholesome foods. Anything that nourishes the body nourishes the mind, too – and vice versa.

Hobbies & social interaction

Hobbies are a great way to not only learn something new, but provide the opportunity to find a new passion. They’re also great opportunities for social interaction.

Taking up a new hobby can help to re-instil a sense of purpose, which is something that can come under threat as we leave the working world. It’s a great way to boost mental health and improve self-esteem, which are both crucial in building up the confidence to lead a more independent lifestyle.

At the estate, we love encouraging our people to get involved with our on-site activities – from gardening and arts and crafts to baking and pet therapy.

We’re passionate about helping our people live as independently as possible, whilst offering them tailored, individualised care. Our person-centred approach means that the most intricate of individual needs are always considered, with character building and emotional support being as crucial to us as physical and nursing support.

To find out more about how we encourage independent living for the elderly at the estate, please click here.

Celebrating World Radio Day at our Home

Posted on 13 February 2020 by Ricky

Thursday 13th February marks World Radio Day. So, we caught up with a few of the lovely people living here at Huntington and Langham to learn about some historical moments, broadcast through the airwaves. The importance of recalling memories, as well as making new ones, is something we value immensely at our beautiful care home in Surrey.

The radio has been a fundamental means of communication, with many of the octogenarians and nonagenarians living here at Huntington and Langham relying upon the wireless for important news broadcasts, especially in the 1940s when radio was the timeliest means of delivering key war updates. Alongside the more necessary requirements, the radio also provided entertainment, with storytelling and music being shared with ease to the masses for the first time.

From the declaration of war between England and Germany in 1939, to the interview with Marilyn Monroe in 1955, there have been many iconic radio moments throughout history. Many of which the lovely people of Huntington and Langham recall vividly.

The death of George V

The lovely Eileen, aged 90 years young, recalled the death of George V as we discussed the power of radio over the decades. Eileen shared with us the fond memories of her as a young girl, her father gathering the family around their old radio as they all listened intently to the news of the death of the King, “I remember my father gathering us all to the radio to listen to it, because the King was failing fast,” Eileen recounted as she looked off, fondly into the distance. The power of the memory drawing her back to times of old.

Churchill’s infamous speech

Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister, had an appearance of quite some note, as he outlined the seriousness of the ramifications of the fall of France in his Finest Hour broadcast.

Bronwyn, who lives with us at Huntington House, shared with us her memories of Churchill, and alongside the radio broadcasts of the time, Bronwyn tells us how people took to the streets to dance and sing for the VE day celebrations. Being a young 20 year old lady at the time of Germany’s surrender, Bronwyn’s memories of the time are so important, as is continuing to share these stories through generations.

The abdication of Edward VIII

Another memory recalled with ease, and a key moment for broadcast, was the abdication of King Edward VIII.

The abdication took place in December of 1936, and Bronwyn shared with us, “I do remember when he abdicated, yes. It was not a very happy time, people were down in the dumps, as you say; despondent.”

The power of radio and the importance of it as a means of communication, all too apparent.

Jack Jackson’s Radio Programme

The entertainment that radio provided brought joy and laughter to the homes of many prior to the introduction of the television. And still, many of those living here have the iconic Roberts Radio proudly placed within their rooms, listening to favourites such as BBC’s The Archers and Radio 4.

In 1946 – 1967, the programme of choice for many of us here was Jack Jackson’s feature on the BBC Light Programme. A mainstream light entertainment show, Jack played “all sorts of records”, our dear Bronwyn told us. The Record Roundup show being a favourite, which Jackson hosted, and later inspired household radio names such as Kenny Everett and Noel Edmonds.

One of the beauties of living in a care home is being able to share stories and memories of those from a similar era. Reminiscing about times gone by provides everyone with such a wonderful opportunity to share their story.

Understanding the past

Understanding the past also really helps younger generations. And capturing these memories whilst we can is crucial if we’re to learn anything from history. Actively seeking to provide everyone who lives here with the opportunity to discover new things is crucial also, such as our darling Barbara who ventured out on a Harley Davidson, and the lovely Leslie who relived her days as a model.

Today, many of those around the home still opt for the radio over the TV, be it for nostalgia or as a means of comfort. And for those living alone, it certainly does help to relieve feelings of loneliness and isolation, adding a familiar voice when there isn’t anyone around to share stories with.

At Huntington & Langham we encourage the people who live here to open up about their previous life experiences, and those that we are yet to make come true. Doing both can really help everyone learn and grow, and days such as #WorldRadioDay provides the perfect platform for us to do so.

Bucket list wishes: Jack’s return to an RAF Spitfire

Posted on 17 January 2020 by Ricky

At Huntington and Langham Estate, it’s always an absolute honour to support the lovely people that we share our home with on their journey to completing bucket list wishes and reliving past experiences.

Bucketlist wishes

Over the past few months, we enjoyed accompanying Barbara on her Harley Davidson ride, as well as Leslie in her quest to relive her modelling days.

This month, in line with ‘Make Your Dreams Come True’ day on 13th January, we supported Jack, who lives at Huntington House, in his return to an RAF Spitfire.

During his time with the RAF, Jack trained in both Spitfire and Harvard planes. Part of his job included rescuing wounded servicemen during missions to the jungle in the Burma Campaign. As a result, Jack was awarded the Burma Star.

After leaving the RAF, Jack lived with his wife and two daughters and went on to work as a bank manager at Natwest in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire.

Since then, 98-year-old Jack has always wanted to see a Spitfire just one more time. So, a few members of our dedicated team at Huntington House accompanied him on a special visit to Goodwood in Sussex.

Missions to Burma

It was a delight to see Jack’s dream come true. Following the visit, Jack told us: “It was wonderful to see a Spitfire up close again – I have so many memories of training in them during the war. I have to admit, though, that I used to prefer training in Harvard’s – but there’s definitely something special about the Spitfire”.

Jack went on to tell us a little more about his missions to Burma: “The Brits would use bulldozers to make a strip in the jungle. This was so that I could land, pick up the wounded in my two-seater plane and transport them to the nearest hospital camp”.

In addition to his passion for planes and spending time with his family, Jack loves golf and likes to read – especially the morning newspaper.

Charlie, our MD, has also commented on Jack’s experience: “Everyone has parts of their lives that shape them as people, and become part of their identity. Flying a Spitfire in the RAF is obviously a hugely important part of Jack’s life, and it’s brilliant that he can still be reminded of it so vividly through seeing a Spitfire in person”.

This was a fantastic experience for all involved, and we can’t wait to make even more dreams come true. To find out more about our care, please click here.

Top 6 therapeutic activities that nurture your mental health

Posted on 12 December 2019 by Ricky

Around 1-in-4 adults experience a mental health issue in any given year, according to mental health charity, Mind. Whether or not modern day habits and behaviours can be responsible for this, it’s still a very real issue.

For many of us, it’s more complicated than attempting to prevent the onset of mental health conditions – but, there are behaviours and activities we can try, to improve our ability to deal with unexpected life curveballs.

Mental Health and the elderly

Unfortunately, older people can be more vulnerable to mental health issues, according to the Mental Health Foundation. This is something we take seriously at the Huntington and Langham Estate, and is also something we try to combat by encouraging our residents to partake in therapeutic activities.

Walking in nature

Venturing back to our roots is often a very effective way to combat negative feelings. As humans, we’re biologically wired to thrive amongst nature, and exposing ourselves to the outdoors can help to rekindle our innate ‘zest for life’. Unhealthy habits, such as exposing ourselves to screens for long periods of time, can lead to feelings of apathy and agitation.

we encourage everyone to try taking breaks during the day, and use the time to explore the outdoors – whether that’s going for a woodland stroll, or engaging in gardening. You’ll be rewarded with a refreshing boost of energy and welcome mood boost – and you’ll likely experience a better night’s sleep.

Chat with a friend over a cup of tea

It seems so simple, but allowing yourself time each day to interact with a friend can have significant positive impacts to your mental health. Friendships are so important, and are particularly effective in preventing feelings of loneliness.

Surrounding yourself with friends for a short time each day can make you feel much happier in general – and it’s something we really cherish here at the Huntington and Langham Estate.

Pet therapy

Pets can have significant positive impacts on our lives – not only acting as loyal companions, but also reducing feelings of loneliness for their owners. Pets can bring immense joy – and the positive emotions they instil can, in fact, support long-term happiness and health.

As a result of the deep connections we’re able to have with domestic animals, interacting with pets has shown to reduce instances of depression, support lower blood pressure and offer a boost in serotonin (our happy hormone).

Just as we have an innate need to feel joy and satisfaction, as humans, we need the experience of touch. Pets fulfil this need, with the actions of stroking and tactile interaction instilling feelings of calm and peace.

At the estate, we love watching our residents interact with our on-site pets; with puppies, cats and horses making regular visits!

This feline is a much-loved resident at the estate!

Listen to calming music & nature sounds

The human body has the amazing ability to react to the most intricate of sounds. When we listen to calming music, we can expect to experience feelings of peace and serenity, with the wide variety of notes working to create pleasurable emotions within the brain.

Low tempo music tends to help reduce the heart rate, aiding the body to succumb to a peaceful, sleepy state.

Similarly, nature sounds work to boost positive emotions, offering a sensory experience that taps into our innate desire to be surrounded by nature. You could try listening to a variety of animal or weather-based sounds – or a combination of both.

Try mindfulness and/or gratitude journaling

The art of mindfulness has become increasingly popular in recent years, largely due to the positive effects it has on the body.

Modern day habits and behaviours have made it increasingly more difficult for us to focus on the present moment – but it’s highly important that we try to do so. Not only does being present reduce feelings of stress, but it helps us to appreciate the little things – something that many of us forget to do.

For beginners, it can often help to meditate with audible guidance. Headspace is a popular app, helping people of all abilities to let go of their stresses and focus on the present moment.

Particularly as we get older, it becomes even more important to appreciate things that we might otherwise overlook. Try mentally noting three things you’re grateful for each day – whether that’s being thankful for the food you’re eating, or appreciating your close friends/family members.

Try to live more mindfully, too; this can take the form of switching off the TV whilst you’re eating, and being sure to pay attention to all of your senses whilst you head for an outdoor stroll.

Practise gentle yoga & deep breathing

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be particularly flexible to try your hand at yoga. As a practice, yoga can be adapted to suit all abilities – from beginners to advanced yogis. You can even try yoga from the comfort of your arm chair; as long as you’re stretching and breathing deeply, you’ll feel the benefits – which range from improved respiration and circulatory health, to an instant mood boost.

If simply engaging in deep breathing would make you feel more comfortable, then you can do so with the knowledge that you’ll still gain physiological benefits. Breathing mindfully can instil feelings of relaxation and improve bodily functions – from aiding our digestion, to improving our blood flow. Whilst you’re breathing, try holding your hand on your stomach, feeling it rise and fall – this is great for encouraging your mind to focus on the present moment.

There are so many ways you can instil feelings of peace and serenity – and they don’t have to require intense physical or mental exertion.

At the Huntington and Langham Estate, we love encouraging our residents to engage in activities that boost their mental health. To find out more about our care, please click here.

Easy ways to have a healthy lifestyle

Posted on 25 November 2019 by Ricky

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important at any stage of life, but it becomes even more essential as we age. Age comes with increased risk of a number of health conditions – and these can be facilitated by a combination of unhealthy eating, lack of sleep and lack of exercise.

A few small lifestyle changes

It’s not always easy to make drastic lifestyle changes; some people lack the knowledge needed to do so, while others are physically restricted. Luckily, though, you don’t have to overexert yourself, or be an expert on the topic, to stay healthy. Often, it’s a matter of adopting a few small lifestyle changes that can have a significant impact when combined.

Exercise for 10 minutes each day

Remaining physically active has shown to have profound impacts on our physical and mental health. If you’re physically restricted, try to do 10 minutes of exercise each day. You can do whatever feels most comfortable – whether that’s fast-paced walking, or swimming. 10 minutes is much more beneficial for your health than doing no exercise at all – so try to move a little bit every day.

Remove technology 1 hour before bed

Whilst technology can offer a wealth of benefits to the older generation, it can interrupt the natural circadian rhythm when used late at night. As humans, we’re naturally wired to start feeling tired as the sun sets. The blue light emitted from screens interrupts this, preventing further production of melatonin (our sleep hormone). This not only makes it harder to fall asleep, but it reduces the risk of experiencing a good quality, uninterrupted night’s sleep. In order to sleep soundly, it’s important to put devices down at least one hour before going to bed – preferably leaving them in a separate room.

Try a relaxation practice

Yoga and meditation have gained particular traction across the UK in recent years. They not only offer an instant mood boost – they also help to clear the mind, and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Some are intimidated at the prospect of yoga; but contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be particularly flexible or fit to give it a go. Yoga can be adapted to suit all abilities – you can try chair-based yoga, or simple stretches. Meditation offers similar benefits, but it simply requires training your brain to become aware of your natural state, eventually granting you the ability to control your thoughts and emotions – rather than letting them control you.

Add vegetables wherever you can

There is increasing controversy over the notion of ‘superfoods’, and what exactly categorises them as such. Many nutritionists have recently placed particular importance on simply incorporating as many colourful vegetables into the diet as possible, since this has been shown to reduce a number of health risks. Try incorporating vegetables into as many recipes as you can – from main meals, to fresh bakes.

Live mindfully

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be all too easy to forget to live in the present moment. However, this is often the key to living more peacefully and stress-free. Try to become aware of all the thoughts that are occupying your mind, and make an effort to focus on your current activity. Simple daily pursuits like brushing your teeth and taking walks can be done more mindfully; all that’s needed is an increased awareness of your surrounding sights, sounds, smells and tastes, and a conscious effort to banish your mind of intrusive thoughts.

Shift your perspective

Often, negative thoughts and feelings are a result of your overall perspective on life. Your attitude and thoughts can start to affect your behaviours and your body’s physical state. If you consciously start to think more positively, life itself will be a better place to live; you’ll feel happier in general, and your anxieties will likely start to subside.

At Huntington and Langham Estate, we like to ensure that our residents are as happy and healthy as possible. To find out more about our care, please click here.

Fashion shoot at 85 years for YSL model

Posted on 1 November 2019 by Ricky

At Huntington and Langham Estate, we love delving deep into the histories of our residents – from discovering previous generations, to learning about their career journeys.

Top fashion model of the 50’s

When we discovered that Lesley MacLennan, 85 years old and living in Huntington House, had been a model for Yves Saint Laurent in her early 20s, we wanted to help her relive this special time in her life.

Lesley began her modelling career at age 25, after her mother had realised her potential. When talking to Lesley about the start of her career, she told us: “My mother thought I had beautiful hands! She took me to London – she was very ambitious for us. She was a wonderful woman, so determined to ‘do’ something. I was 25 and not married, so I was old enough to know it, to feel it. I didn’t mind it at all.”

From the catwalks of Paris

Lesley’s career started in London, and continued in Paris. This was consequently where she started modelling for Yves Saint Laurent – a then emerging designer – and later with him at Dior, both on the catwalk and in front of the camera. She learned how to walk, develop the etiquette and do her make-up like a model – something many girls and women had aspired to in those days.

60 years after beginning her career, Lesley returned to the face of the camera when esteemed fashion photographer, James Muller, visited the estate. He was visiting a friend at the time, and happened to stumble across Lesley – who had “beautiful hands”, and was immediately struck by the way she carried herself, visualising himself capturing her poise and class.

Photoshoot with a top Vogue photographer

Subsequently, we worked with James to arrange a professional photoshoot at the estate. Lesley had her hair and make-up done, and was dressed in vibrant clothing and jewellery. The photoshoot was also reported in the Sun with Lesley describing the day as “a dream day”.

Following the shoot, Lesley told us: “I thoroughly enjoyed the photo shoot – James made me feel perfectly at ease, he was the real McCoy! I would have said so if he wasn’t! The red and black outfit was so vibrant, it was stunning.”

It was an honour to help Lesley relive her modelling days, and it was wonderful to learn about her history of working for one of the biggest names in fashion.

Photographs and visual memories are particularly important to us here at the estate, since they offer an unfailing sense of comfort to so many people – and in Lesley’s words, pictures last forever.

If you’d like to find out more about our care at Huntington and Langham Estate, please click here.