Birmingham hospital charity funds a bright new space for elderly patients to make memories last.

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity has been working with staff on the Elderly Care Ward at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham to brighten up the patient day room on the unit. The ward looks after elderly patients with a range of medical and complex needs, and the team provides incredible care to ensure their stay on the ward is as comfortable as possible.

The hospital charity has helped fund the refurbishment of the patients’ day room, transforming it from a cold, clinical environment, into a bright and welcoming space with vibrant art on the walls and a jukebox with 50s diner inspired décor. Staff have nicknamed the new room ‘Peaches Diner’ and are hoping it provides patients with a place to come and relax, have a cup of tea, listen to music and spend time with their families, other patients, and staff members.

Ward Manager, Stacey Fream, said, “The new day room enables patients to walk to the day room, ensures they eat and drink well, and helps them to socialise with other patients and staff. I have also seen a positive change in staff morale on the ward, as everyone is happy to be a part of this wonderful change and enjoy sharing these precious moments with their patients. It is wonderful to receive such positive feedback from the patients, relatives and staff.”

As well as the new day room, the ward also holds a breakfast club, a ‘knit and natter’ group and a weekly exercise class. Clare Redmond, Physiotherapy Assistant at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham said, “Our exercise classes encourage movement, create a social environment and gives our patients a sense of accomplishment! Being able to help improve their physical and mental wellbeing is very rewarding.”

Collette Hoult’s father, Reginald Knight, was a patient on the Elderly Care Ward and regularly spent time in the day room. Collette said, “Peaches Diner was an escape away from the acutely unwell area and all the alarms on the ward. It allowed my dad to relax and feel more like a person than a patient. He also enjoyed taking part in the various activities, particularly the music therapy and sensory stimulation.”

The unit has an increased number of patients with dementia, which at times can be very challenging for both patients and staff. Dementia Action Week 2024 is taking place between 13th – 19th May and aims to highlight the care and services, and support that is available to help improve the lives of people with dementia and their families and carers. The team on the Elderly Care Ward will be marking Dementia Action Week by holding a tea party on Thursday 16th May in Peaches Diner.