Always be grateful for what you have – Ely care home residents share ‘seeds of wisdom
Wise words are being shared across generations in Ely this summer thanks to a heart-warming initiative at The Orchards care home.
Residents including Jean Grimes, Pamela Maidment and Mary Chandler enjoyed an afternoon in the Garden Room potting herbs for their garden while reflecting on life’s lessons. As part of the Seeds of Wisdom project, they wrote down advice to be shared with family, friends and the wider community.
The activity, run by non-profit Greensleeves Care, celebrates the experiences of residents and how their words can help younger generations make wise decisions and lead fulfilled lives.
Some of the advice included:
- Hilda Kempton, 102: “Always listen to your elders – even though I didn’t!”
- Mary Chandler, 93: “Always be kind and remember to stay humble.”
- Pamela Hicks, 78: “Follow your dreams. I trained as a secretary through evening classes and went on to work in radio astronomy.”
- Pamela Maidment: “Laugh and the world laughs with you. Laugh often.”
- Jean Grimes: “Always be grateful for what you have.”
Rebecca Buck, Activities Co-ordinator at The Orchards, said:
“Our residents have experienced so much throughout their lives and asking them to share their nurturing tips – their seeds of wisdom – was incredibly inspiring. It was also another opportunity for a therapeutic activity together.”
The Seeds of Wisdom project forms part of Greensleeves Care’s nationwide Get Care Wise initiative, which helps families learn more about care options before a crisis arises.
Rebecca added:
“Summer is the perfect opportunity for getting care wise. Families often have a bit more time to think about the additional support an older loved one might need in future. Activities like Seeds of Wisdom remind us that knowledge is power and that it pays to plan ahead where possible.”
For more information, practical advice and resources, visit www.greensleeves.org.uk/get-care-wise
Photos of Jean Grimes, Pamela Maidment , Pamela Hicks and Mary Chandler
