Residents at Norfolk care home take the Walkers taste test

Date of article: 07-May-09

One of Norfolk’s premier care homes for people affected by dementia took up the Walkers crisps ‘new flavour’ taste challenge as part of its sensory stimulation and reminiscence sessions for residents.

Residents of St. Leonard’s Court in Mundford, near Thetford recently taste tested the six new Walkers Crisps flavours to coincide with the run up to the announcement of the winning crisp ‘Builders Breakfast, which was announced on 2 May 2009.

The flavours, which include Onion Bahaji, Cajun Squirrel, Crispy Duck and Hoisin Builders’ Breakfast, Fish and Chips and Chilli and Chocolate, were used as part of the home’s scheme to encourage self expression amongst residents.

Nadine Forde, Home Manager of St. Leonard’s Court said: “Sensory activities are very important to our residents due to their dementia. Sensory stimulation can assist some of the challenges they face in day-to-day living, but it also promotes and encourages self expression.

“Residents and staff reminisced about the crisps they ate during their childhoods and discussed their favourite flavours. The Walkers taste challenge was a fantastic sensory exercise. Onion Bhahji came out top, followed by Cajun Squirrel. A couple of our residents even remembered Walkers crisps becoming popular in the post-war period, which provided interesting discussions.”

St. Leonard’s Court is part of the Healthcare Homes Group, the largest independent care provider with 22 homes, the Manorcourt Homecare division and daycare centres under its management.

Chief Executive Richard Clough added: “We strongly believe that no matter what level of care is required, everyone deserves the same attention and has the same right to live life to the full. We aim to make our residents’ lives both enjoyable and satisfying. The sensory work that our staff offer is a huge part of this and a recognised benefit to our residents that are affected by dementia.”

For more information about St. Leonard’s Court, please contact the home on 01842 878225 or visit www.healthcarehomes.co.uk

click here for more details or to contact Healthcare Homes Group Ltd