Great Oaks is a home from home

Making the decision to move into a care home, or to help a loved one move in, can be a hugely upsetting and challenging time so making the right choice is important.

Vi spoke about her experience of choosing Great Oaks, managed by Encore Care Homes, for her partner Derek and how it feels like a home from home for both of them.

Sadly, my partner Derek can no longer do anything for himself as he has Alzheimer’s disease and chronic kidney disease, so we needed to choose a care home that would be able to cater for all of his care needs. Great Oaks is situated just a few minutes away from our home in Wallisdown so we made the decision to view it and were not disappointed. The rooms and facilities on offer are outstanding and finished to such a high standard, which confirmed this was the right place for Derek to live and call his home.  

It was an incredibly hard choice to move Derek into a care home, but the whole process has been made so much easier by the caring friendly nature of the team at Great Oaks. The staff are all so kind and welcoming every time I come in, and I’ve got to know those that are looking after Derek and trust them 100 per cent – I know they genuinely have his best interests at heart.

Three carers in particular, Alison, Katie and Karen show Derek a great amount of care and attention. I have also built up a great rapport and relationship with them, which has helped to make my visits even more enjoyable.

There is a real family vibe at Great Oaks, and a homely feel, not just for the residents but for their spouses and families too.

I visit every day, and I’m always actively encouraged to use the communal areas as well as the facilities, which I really enjoy doing with Derek. Particularly taking part in the home activities. I’m always made to feel so relaxed. 

Recently, Derek’s condition has deteriorated.   His concentration has gone, which makes it hard for him to focus on activities. Thankfully there are lovely gardens at Great Oaks which Derek will happily take a stroll in during the warmer weather. He does also like to spend time with another resident, Terry, as he is encouraged to socialise by the care team.

I can honestly say that we have been made to feel part of the family at Great Oaks, which has made the whole transition process so much easier. Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease and it’s heart-breaking to watch a loved one with this terrible illness.  But when I see Derek smile, it really lifts my spirits.  I’m glad he is living somewhere comfortable, homely and surrounded by such compassionate and friendly nurses and carers.  The care Derek receives is exceptional, and I couldn’t really ask for more.

Great Oaks is the latest addition of an established family of care homes managed by Encore Care Homes, with two other care homes in Dorset and Hampshire. The 80-bed care home is fitted with state-of-the-art facilities, which are designed to enable staff to provide the highest standard of 24 hour, personalised care and ensure residents are comfortable and happy in their surroundings. 

For more information please visit www.greatoaksbournemouth.co.uk  or call 01202 087444 to speak to a member of the team.