Country Terrace residents relish summer refresh

Twists on activities enhance social fun

August 14, 2012 -- Lisa Bailey

Country Terrace has emerged from a July outbreak to kick start summer with some fun twists on activities.

Activity director Veronica Couto says the programs are a hit, even drawing residents who are a little shy.

“I think a lot of new friendships have been formed,” she says, noting the activities bring together residents of all interests and abilities for a refreshing change of pace.

“It’s good to have some things stay the same but I think it’s important, too, to have new things to look forward to, because when we change things that’s means we’re also helping to adapt to other people’s needs and interests,” says Couto, who notes that the London-area home has welcomed some new residents.

Among the popular offerings is a twice-weekly barbecue lunch at Country Terrace. Couto and life enrichment co-ordinator Christie Patterson came up with the idea to make up for the meal club socials missed during the outbreak.

“Summer’s all about barbecues so we thought of doing lunch on the patio for August,” Couto says.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, groups of 10-12 residents dig into sliders (burgers) plus other summer fare like ice cream. Different groups attend on different days – men’s and ladies barbecues, for instance, have been held, and others are planned for couples or new residents.

It’s a chance to get to know others and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful grounds, Couto says.

“We’ve received great feedback from our residents as they would love to have this every summer,” Patterson says.

“It’s a great program because it allows residents to do something a little different from their regular meal routine, and it ignites reminiscing for residents of times they’ve had family barbecues and get-togethers during summer holidays,” she says, adding the barbecues are a team effort.

Also this month, Country Terrace launched a hand spa, with an average of seven to 10 residents enjoying hand massages, manicures and/or face-mask facials on weekends.

Creating a spa-like atmosphere presents a feast for residents’ senses thanks to the soothing touch, soft music, low lighting and fragrant skin-care products.

Couto says the spa offers another new and exciting experience for residents, some of whom say they’ve never enjoyed this kind of pampering before.

Resident Gloria Miller says the massage made her hands feel “really nice and soft” and her arms relaxed.

“It felt good for the rest of the day,” she says.

Resident Mac Grant says the massage loosened up some tight muscles. “It’s great and I hope it continues,” he adds.

On Aug. 4, Country Terrace held its annual Hawaiian tiki party but with a twist as virgin pina coladas were served.

“We thought we’d change it up just a tad,” Couto says, adding the new drinks and some décor spiced things up.

At least 30 residents flocked to the Notting Hill dining room, where staff in Hawaiian skirts and leis handed out leis, coconut cookies and pieces of pineapple, and many residents danced to Hawaiian music.

Resident Constance Philp says the party was just as good as going to Hawaii.

“I thought it was cool and entertaining good music,” Robert Pommanville says, adding the virgin pina coladas were great.

If you have a story to share or feedback on this article, please contact the  newsroom at 800-294-0051, ext. 25, or e-mail lisa(at)axiomnews.ca.






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