Address
Unit 5, West Yoke Farm,Michael’s Lane,
Ash,
Kent TN15 7EP
Telephone Number
01474 874 619Fax Number
01474 874 618Email Address
headoffice@nellsar.comThe Old Downs EMI Residential Home
A little about us
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The Old Downs is a residential home designed to cater for the special needs of residents who have a diagnoses or Alzheimer's and dementia type illness and who are over the age of 65 years. The home is a period building circa 1888 and is of considerable character. During 2005 it was extensively but sympathetically refurbished to provide a quality, comfortable and homely environment. The interior fixtures and fittings have encompassed much of the latest design in accordance with research carried out by The Sterling University "for people with dementia". The aim - to balance the need for constructive stimulation against the need for a calming environment. Set in beautiful peaceful woodland, the garden is secure and allows the freedom to wander in a safe risk free environment. Our home offers 41 single bedrooms; some have en-suite facilities. All rooms are comfortably furnished and equipped with a nurse call bell, telephone points can be arranged via the manager. We actively encourage our families to work with us to make the residents room as far as possible "home from home", this can be achieved by having in the room the residents most valued and treasured possessions, pictures, photos and mementos of the past. There are three spacious sitting rooms equipped with audio systems and two have TVs, and of which has a loop system for those who use hearing aids. All lounges have ample and comfortable seating. There is a conservatory affording the most stunning views of the Fawkham valley regardless of the season, and this is also well furnished with comfy chairs. There is a table and chairs for those who like to sit and read the morning papers. Here you will often find the activities coordinator who is available to discuss the "hot topics" of the day over a nice cup of tea. Situated on the middle floor is "the cinema area" this is where small groups of residents are given the opportunity to enjoy the in house cinema experience, classic films are viewed on the extra wide screen TV, ice cream and popcorn included. |
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On the top floor we have a "snoozling area", this is an area that is designed to aid relaxation in residents who for whatever reason feel anxious. It consists of visual and sensory stimulation but in a relaxing mode. The lights are dimmed; the chairs reclined, soft and spiritual music is quietly played, whilst the aromatherapy and visual light effects gently work on calming the anxious mind.
New for 2007 is the addition of the Café/Bistro bar. This is located in the larger of the secure gardens. Our brand new café/bistro will in the summer provide a café facility were residents and their families can enjoy a relaxing cream tea or ice cream whilst sunning themselves on the patio in the newly landscaped garden. It will also be used for BBQ's and other fun summer events. Throughout the year themed events such as Italian or Indian lunches will be provided for small groups of residents giving the "out for a meal" experience. The building will be fully equipped with electricity, running water and heating ensuring it can be used all year round.
Our dining room is light and airy and this is where residents are served home cooked meals of the highest standard, alternatively and upon request residents may choose to eat in their room. All types of diets can be catered for and our meals are varied and cooked from fresh ingredients daily.
Our activities coordinator arranges a varied activities programme which is based on the physical and cognitive abilities of the residents; activities are carried out in small and medium groups and for some on an individual basis. Within the home there are physical games, reminiscence, general knowledge quizzes, sing songs, dancing, gardening, beauty sessions, films in the cinema and use of the snoozling facility. Trips out are often arranged again based on the residents abilities and preferences; this may include trips to the Blackheath reminiscence centre, Tea Dances, the Gravesend promenade, Rochester Cathedral, the local garden centre, or Pitch & Put at the local park. There are those who just simply enjoy an escorted walk around the pretty grounds. We invite families to join in with themed planned activities as often as possible such as our summer BBQ.
Location Location!
So where will you find us? The Old Downs is located in the small and tranquil village of Hartley, located between the villages of Longfield and New Ash Green. Whilst enjoying a village location we are fortunate to be within easy reach of the M25 and A2, we are served by Longfield railway station which is a main line station straight into the city and we have regular bus services that run between the major and close by towns of Gravesend and Dartford.
Whilst having the advantage of living in a village, we are fortunate to be situated between two villages that have substantial shopping facilities, post offices, chemists, café's, pubs and supermarkets. For the more adventurous and ardent shoppers we are only 10 miles from the Blue Water shopping centre!
Other nearby local places of interest include the historic riverside town of Gravesend, famous for its promenade and fort gardens which often host interesting and fun events such as regatta's, music festivals as well as many multi cultural events. There is a museum and armoury located in the fort gardens, named after General Gordon who was once a resident of Gravesend. There is also the nearby historic church of St Georges where Princess Pocahontas remains are said to be buried. The whole area is steeped in history and has many and varied places of interest worth a visit.
The home has several communal wheelchairs which fold compactly to fit in the boot of most cars and are available upon request should families wish to take advantage of these local attractions.
At The Old Downs we are always happy to receive visitors, all we ask is that you avoid mealtimes unless of course you are booked in for lunch!
For further details or to arrange a visit, please contact:
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Address: |
Tel: 01474 702 146 |