My mother entered Simeon with some trepidation given her experiences in two other care homes. We had chosen Simeon on the recommendation of a family friend, who spoke of the home in glowing terms as her own Mother had spent her final years there. From the perspective of a daughter living many miles away in London I can tell that she has settled extremely well in her new home.

 

Whenever we have visited, we have been impressed with the warmth, friendliness and attention exhibited by all members of staff.

 

The team of young enthusiastic international volunteers really make Simeon stand out from other Care Homes. Mum has made so many new friends and has enjoyed learning about the volunteers’ different cultural backgrounds and experiences. Their eagerness to help and ‘nothing is too much trouble’ approach has been so obvious from day one.

In the summer we attended the Simeon Highland Games where staff and residents competed in teams and there was fun to be had by all as cabers were tossed and the ‘tug o war’ was pulled, all to the sound of the bagpipes.

 

Mum has been encouraged to remain active and interested in life. She continues to enjoy playing the piano and singing. Mum has always loved gardening. When she asked if she could help redesign a border at Simeon, she was taken to the local gardening centre to choose the plants and now enjoys watching them flourish.

Mum has made so many new friends with staff and other residents at Simeon and still enjoys many visits from her old friends in the community.

 

Mum celebrated her 97th birthday at Simeon in September. There was a big party and cards and a wonderful cake. We couldn’t be there but knew it was a great day and Mum was made to feel very special. We don’t know how many more birthdays Mum will celebrate but we feel confidant the days ahead at Simeon will be happy ones.

 

Susan Monkman – daughter of Christine Douglas (resident)