Video call apps have helped the residents of Featherton House Care Home to continue to enjoy the things they love the most despite visiting restrictions.
As the world turns to technology to stay connected during the lockdown, so too have the residents of Wren Retirement Living’s care home in Deddington, Oxfordshire.
For the last few years, Oxfordshire based musician Tristan Jackson-Pate has been visiting Featherton House Care Home regularly to entertain residents. However, when the home was closed to all visitors due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the team had to think outside of the box to ensure that life could continue to be as normal as possible for everyone at the home.
All Wren Retirement Living Care Homes have a dedicated tablet to keep residents and relatives in touch via Facebook and video calls. Following the announcement of lockdown restrictions, Tristan reached out to Featherton House to see if they would like to try a virtual performance for residents.
The team at the home quickly worked out how to connect their tablet to the large Smart TV in the lounge, and residents were able to enjoy a performance of their favourite songs, from their favourite entertainer together.
Tristan sang a selection of songs from the likes of Bing Crosby, Dorris Day, and Elvis Presley while residents sang and clapped along.
The initial virtual performance was such a great success that Tristan has performed via video call several times since. He even ‘dialled in’ for a special VE Day performance for the 75th-anniversary celebrations on the 8th May. Our fantastic Featherton House team decorated the living room in bunting and handed out Union Jack flags, hats, and song sheets so residents could join in with a selection of wartime classics.
These virtual performances will continue to be a part of our regular activities programme at Featherton House as long as visiting restrictions remain.
