Sheila’s Singing Her Praise for Sundridge Court
Making that decision to move or helping a loved one to find the right care home can be emotional and difficult for all those involved. In the middle of a global pandemic things can be complicated but our teams are here to guide and help you every step of the way.
Sheila wanted to stay close to where she had lived for 25 years and be near her family and friends. She chose Sundridge Court Nursing Home with her family as it provided her with a wide range of activities that she enjoyed and was based in the local area that she knew so well. Both her two sons – Philip and Richard – and her four grandsons live in Bromley and Sevenoaks, so are able to visit with ease.
At Sundridge Court, there’s something to suit everyone, from the craft area to the hair salon, to picnics in the grounds. If residents prefer to spend one-on-one time with a member of the team, they can read the paper, pop to the shops or have a pint in the local pub. The Home has strong connections with the Bromley community, many residents invite them to join in activities at the Home or run their own sessions.
Sundridge Court has 27 bedrooms, providing residential and nursing care with all the amenities of a modern home. The schedule of activities is both stimulating and varied, including weekly trips to local attractions and the surrounding areas.
Sheila started work in a primary school as a playground assistant before moving into the school kitchen. Later she worked at a chemist in Beckenham High Street, where she would ride her bike to and from work every day – Sheila travelled everywhere on her bike with a basket at the front! She has many stories to tell about her time at the chemist and her dealings with the customers. In her spare time Sheila loves flower arranging, an activity she still enjoys at Sundridge. Her favourite time of year is Christmas, as Sheila’s birthday falls on Boxing Day and she won’t let you forget it!
What was the moving in experience like?
“The move was extremely easy. Sundridge was not far from where I lived, so I had the support of close friends and family during the move” explained Sheila.
The team at Sundridge Court, were helpful, friendly and welcoming. They spend time getting to know a resident and learning as much as possible about the people they are caring for to make a smooth transition.
How are you settling in at Sundridge Court?
Sheila is very sociable and has joined in with many activities with other residents and staff. She loves playing a game of carpet bowls or sitting in the conservatory, where there this a view of the beautiful garden to watch the birds and admire nature!
Since moving in to Sundridge Court, Sheila is happy and comfortable, especially at tea-time, as she loves her tea and sugary biscuits! “I might be diabetic, but I am always keen on something sweet like cakes and ice cream”.
“I love to sing, especially the classics and I like to encourage the other residents to join in, often leading a reminiscing session!” Sheila’s favourite song to sing is the classic Que Sera Sera by Doris Day!
What advice would you give other care seekers and their families?
Sheila is loving her new life at Sundridge and would advise anyone thinking of moving into a care home to consider what is important. “I think my secret to long life is food, good health and a nice big fire! Being kind and loving to one another is important and is exemplified by the team at Sundridge”.
Freestyle Poem by Sheila Baldwin
I do it well and hope to find,
All the things you might like,
You ought to get me going,
because all this wind is blowing,
Oh a cup of tea, however so kind!
Oh! I spilled some!
I hope you don’t mind!
-Sheila Baldwin
