Appeal for donations to help keep patients active

A team at Musgrove Park Hospital that helps keep older patients active during their stay in hospital is appealing for donations.

Four activity facilitators have recently been introduced on the hospital’s care of older person wards – Eliot, Triscombe and Wordsworth. The dedicated team spends time with patients doing a range of activities to help keep them active and encourage independence.

Maggie Poole, senior sister on Wordsworth ward, said: “We’ve seen a real improvement in patients’ wellbeing and mood since the activity facilitators were introduced on the ward. Patients appear relaxed and settled and less anxious. We’ve had lots of positive feedback from families and carers.”

The team has been helping patients to create ‘reminiscence boxes’ to help stimulate memory through handling objects and discussion. Through exploring a patient’s past, the team can understand their individual needs better.

Memorabilia, such as a vintage toy car, can spark conversation and provide insight into a patient’s likes and dislikes.

Christine Kastrian, a patient at Musgrove, said: “The activities we’ve been doing are brilliant. I’ve met some lovely people while making pompoms and finger-painting. You don’t think you’ll make friends when you come into hospital but these activities have been great for talking to people.”

“The activity facilitators encourage family and visitors to get involved in the sessions run on the wards. My daughter Emma has helped do the activities with me as well and we’re going to continue the crafts when I get home. We’re even going to donate some craft materials and hope others do too.”

The Taunton and Mid Somerset branch of Parkinson’s UK has already donated a voice amplifier which will improve communication with some of the hospital’s Parkinson’s patients.

Maggie Poole added: “We would be very grateful for any donations for the team, including pastels, wool and
knitting or crochet needles, nail polish, instruments, memorabilia and wooden skittles or small throwing beanbags.”

Donations can be made to: Wordsworth ward, Duchess Building, Musgrove Park Hospital, TA1 5DA