So impressed

When John Deadman took a tour of Pine Martin Grange with his daughter Julia and son Richard, he was so impressed he decided to move there.

And things have gone so well that Valerie Straw, the mother of Julia’s partner, has made the same journey.

“Dad has been type 1 diabetic since he was young and it reached a point where remembering to take his medication and declining mobility meant he needed somewhere that offered nursing care as well as residential,” said Julia. “He went to see Pine Martin Grange, had a look round and liked it.”

Julia feels the varied activities available at Pine Martin Grange are key.

“Dad has always been very active, he’s 95 now and still enjoys taking part in the skittles and bowls sessions,” she said. “He still reads a paper every day, likes to know what’s going on in the world and enjoys having intelligent conversation with other residents and staff.”

Julia believes that connection between residents and staff is crucial.

“Pine Martin is aware of every resident’s individual needs so for Dad that includes a diet compatible with his diabetes, but the staff do so much more than simply offer care, it really is like one big family,” she said.

Julia and her partner have been regular visitors to Pine Martin Grange since John moved in four years ago and her partner’s mum Valerie, 92, was so impressed she has also moved there.

“Val developed some mobility issues, was getting a bit shaky on her feet and wasn’t able to get out to buy food. I also think she was getting quite lonely,” said Julia.

“Now she enjoys plenty of social interaction as well as trips out to the garden centre and country parks.”