IT WAS a case of the old pals act at Austin House care home in Lower Earley last month.
In fact, residents and staff enjoyed a feast of friendship to mark the UN’s International Day of Friendship with an afternoon tea party.
There was plenty of hand shaking and even a friendly peck on the cheek as people reminisced about old friends and even a few new ones.
Joseph Patterson, general manager at the home, said: “Everyone at Austen House was keen to get involved in Friendship Day celebrations. It was really nice to see residents engaging with their friends from local community, and I think it made everyone realise just how amazing it is to have good friends.”
“Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.”
Staff and residents spent time making friendship bracelets to give to their friends, colleagues and to the many friends of the home who volunteer, to say thank you for all their help and support.
The Life Enrichment Team organised the Tea Party alongside many friends from the local community as well as loved ones.
Marigold, a resident at the home, said: “We’ve had such a lovely day. It has been wonderful to celebrate all our lovely friends and helpers, Friendship Day has made me think about just how much those relationships mean to me.”
The International Day of Friendship was proclaimed in 2011 by the UN General Assembly with the idea that friendship between people, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.
Today, Friendship Day is celebrated in many countries across the globe and is a special occasion that encourages people to celebrate their friendships – old and new – by spending time with their friends and loved ones.
