For the residents of Catherine House Care Home, who are fondly referred to as family members, a day at Noah’s Ark Zoo wasn’t just a well-led outing organised by team members and volunteers. It was the kind of day out many would plan on a bright spring morning, a trip to the zoo, a packed lunch, good company, and plenty to see.
Ruby, Glenda, Bea, Nellie, Julie, Clive and his wife Sally, were supported by volunteer Jan and team member Sharon. The day started with laughter and singing before they’d even left the building, with Glenda leading the way: “We’re going to the zoo!” Nellie commented on the early start but was happy to have a doze on the journey, while others chatted and looked out at the Somerset countryside.
Julie appreciated the opportunity to explore independently. “It felt like living a normal life again,” she said.
On arrival, a ranger from the zoo helped everyone off the minibus and handed out maps. There was a sense of quiet excitement as they made their way to the café for coffee and cake. Nellie decided against a coffee but took a liking to Sharon’s strawberry milkshake and happily made it her own.
The group headed straight for the elephants, the animal they’d all been most keen to see.
Bea commented on how clean and well-kept the zoo was. Nellie couldn’t stop saying “Wow” at each enclosure. When they reached the tortoises, she laughed, “I wouldn’t want to ride on his back.” Glenda looked around the park and said she’d never been to a zoo quite like it.
Clive and Sally spent time together away from their usual routines, while Julie appreciated the opportunity to explore independently. She spoke with visitors, followed her own route through the zoo, and said the support from the team and rangers made her feel safe and comfortable. “It felt like living a normal life again,” she said.
Lunch was a picnic, sandwiches, sausage rolls, doughnuts, cookies, caramel slices, and fruit, enjoyed in the open air with good conversation.
The return journey was marked by old songs and shared memories, with Daisy Daisy and It’s a Long Way to Tipperary rounding off the day.
Continuing Familiar Routines
At Catherine House Care Home, value is placed on maintaining the routines and experiences that make life feel familiar and personal. Whether it’s spending time with animals, enjoying home baking, or going on local outings, it’s all about providing choice and creating opportunities that feel natural.
These moments are an essential part of everyday life, offering a sense of continuity and connection that is deeply meaningful to family members.
Find out more about life at Catherine House Care Home, please contact us