Ponies, Poems, and Awards – June at Island Healthcare’s Isle of Wight Care homes
At Island Healthcare, we believe that great care is built on meaningful moments. :)
That can mean lots of different things. Maybe its a quiet cup of tea in the garden, or maybe a walk among the flowers, or the gentle nuzzle of a visiting pony.
Here's a look back at some of the uplifting highlights from our homes across the Isle of Wight this June.
🐴 Pony Visits and Gentle Connections: Animal Therapy in Our Care Homes
At Tile House, residents were delighted by a surprise visit from a horse called Guiness! (brought in by Becky one of the team.)
He was a calm and friendly horse who spent time with everyone he could. Of course animal visits like this are not just a fun experience; they offer real emotional and therapeutic value for elderly people. Pet therapy has been shown to reduce stress and spark memory in older adults, particularly those living with dementia. So we try and do it as much as possible at Island healthcare!
Hazel Lodge also welcomed some smaller hooved guests This time it was some adorable miniature ponies who visited residents. Stroking the ponies and engaging with them of course brought some lovely smiles to the team and the residents too!
Meanwhile, at Highfield House, the team transformed a vintage caravan into a peaceful summer retreat in the garden. It is a perfect retrat and somewhere for everyone to relax when they need to in the summer. Now, the residents can head there and get a warm drink or relax with a view of the flowers and the garden.
Highfield also had cause for celebration this month — the home was officially recognised as one of the Top 100 care homes in the UK by the national care comparison site, Lottie.
🎉 Celebrating Summer: Mini Festivals and Outdoor Living
At Northbrooke House, the team brought the joy of summer festivals right to the courtyard. Residents enjoyed a mini festival complete with fancy dress, colourful decorations, refreshments, and music. It was a lively afternoon that created shared memories for everyone involved — from residents to staff.
In contrast, Westview House offered peaceful outdoor moments for those who prefer a gentler pace. Residents took nature walks around the gardens, enjoying the sunshine, birdsong, and blooming flowers. These everyday experiences are vital to emotional wellbeing, providing a sense of routine, comfort, and connection with the seasons.
💙 Father’s Day Reflections and the Power of Reminiscence
At Brighstone Grange, Father’s Day was a chance for quiet reflection. Residents came together to talk about their dads, share memories, and express what they might say to them today. After these lovely cconversations, we put together a poem crafted by our very own team member, Carrie, using the residents’ own words.
Reminiscence activities like this are a core part of our approach to dementia-friendly care. Talking about the past can bring comfort, spark conversation, and reduce anxiety — helping residents feel more connected and valued. What to learn more? You can find lots of information about how it can help (with some other useful tips) at this resource from dementia UK.
🏡 What Makes Life at Island Healthcare Special?
Across all our homes — from Brighstone Grange and Highfield House to Hazel Lodge, Northbrooke House, Westview, and Tile House — our mission is simple: to provide not just care, but community. We want everyone - whether they are team members or residents, to feel like family.
June has been full of the kinds of moments that make people feel truly at home. From animal-assisted therapy and seasonal events to one-on-one reflections and thoughtful activities, every home is focused on creating a daily life that’s rich in meaning, warmth, and dignity.
👉 Looking for a Care Home on the Isle of Wight?
Whether you’re starting your care journey, supporting a loved one, or just exploring your options, we’re always happy to have a conversation.