“Bessie’s route to recovery and new friendships at Ashbourne Lodge” Read Bessie’s story.

After an injury and a few stints in the hospital, Bessie was reluctant to move into a care home. Four months later and Bessie’s quality of life has taken a remarkable turn for the better. Stacy Sandham, our Wellbeing Facilitator, shares Bessie’s journey with us.

Bessie arrived at Ashbourne Lodge in August 2024 for a short stay. She had experienced a fall at home, breaking her femur, which led her to be admitted first to Royal Derby Hospital and then to St. Oswald’s Hospital in Ashbourne for rehabilitation. At St. Oswald’s, Bessie faced a challenging time—she declined most medical support, including physiotherapy, and struggled deeply with her emotional health. She was reluctant to walk or engage in activities, feeling low and increasingly withdrawn.

When Bessie came to Ashbourne Lodge, she was reliant on a wheelchair and required the assistance of two staff members to move. Her emotional state was fragile, and she often chose to stay in her room or bed. However, with consistent encouragement from our team, she slowly started venturing out of her room and accepting support when needed.

After several weeks, with help from our dedicated physiotherapy and care teams, Bessie began to regain strength. She progressed from requiring assistance to using a rotunda for standing, and soon after, she could manage short distances with a Zimmer frame. Her mood, too, started to lift. Initially, she was distressed when informed that she would need to stay longer at Ashbourne Lodge. But as the days passed, she adjusted, even forming close friendships with the other residents. She now enjoys spending time in the garden, chatting with friends, and being part of our community.

Bessie has also started participating in our activities, especially enjoying music sessions where she sings along to her favourite songs and hymns. She takes pleasure in arts and crafts and outings with fellow residents. Her background in office work at Rolls Royce and her childhood in a large family (one of eleven siblings!) made Bessie a naturally sociable person. Our goal was to help her rediscover that social spirit, and seeing her engage so joyfully has been heartwarming for everyone.

Today, Bessie is thriving. She has rekindled connections with family and friends and shares laughter and lively conversation with other residents and staff. Witnessing her transformation into a vibrant, happier version of herself has been a joy, and we are all grateful to see Bessie enjoying life to the fullest once again.

For more information about Ashbourne Lodge and how they can help your loved one, contact 01335 301400 or email the friendly team at ashbourne@milfordcare.co.uk.