Eastview Dignity Day

Eastview Dignity Day

On February 1st 2013 ,Eastview Residential Home in Lowestoft held a dignity day. We chose spring as a theme for the day because we felt that it signifies new beginnings, and we thought the residents would like spring plants. Several of us brought in some plants to make a very pretty display in the lounge. We spoke to each resident asking them what dignity means to them. We wrote their definitions on a little card stuck to a brightly coloured stick and then asked the resident which plant they would like their card to be put in. They all enjoyed chatting to staff about dignity and reading the posters we had made about dignity day. We had a short break for coffee and cupcakes and read out a poem written by one of the care assistants.(See below to read poem). The residents then enjoyed having photos taken with the staff and the plants.

Over the past few weeks the residents and their families have helped to keep the plants watered and have admired the spring flowers and cards that have been on display in their lounge. Everybody got a lot of enjoyment out of the day, having time to be able to discuss dignity and what it means, over coffee and cake.

The care homes owner has two dogs which spend a lot of time with the residents, they enjoyed being made a fuss of and licking up the crumbs!



EASTVIEW DIGNITY POEM

Every day I yearn for you to treat me with respect

Not turn from me and greet your friend

And make me see neglect

Please look at me and see that I have feelings just the same

As you and her and them

I am not just old I have a name

Life for me is a useless futility

I have not long to go

So above all else for what is left

Please treat me with some dignity.

By Brenda M Gray