Grove Lodge

After reading their damming CQC report of 2014, these guys have worked so hard and really turned this place around. Their 2016 CQC report will put your mind at rest. Don’t judge a book by its cover, the aged Art Deco period facade, the slightly overgrown drive up to the entrance might put you off a bit but don’t let it! Set in the beautiful rolling hills of one of Dorset’s SSI locations & with views of bucolic English countryside this place has it all! From the warm welcome on arrival you quickly realise this place is more than just a residential home. It does not appear to be run like your usual Four Star Hotel type residence with every scatter cushion placed just so or with squeaky clean Hospital corridor efficiency. This places is more than that. It’s a “Home” The care home manageress stresses that they offer every resident Quality Care not Quantity of Care. Dad was Discharged from Hospital to Grove Lodge Residential Home 5 days ahead of schedule and without notice given to the manageress or staff. Even though they were not quiet ready to receive Dad, they went out of their way to make sure they were ready with refreshments and a light meal and a comfy bed for the night. Dad arrived after a 7 hour journey, disorientated, confused and very tired. The care, compassion and support they gave Dad was above and beyond. Since then Dad has settled in Amazingly well. He has a large room with two windows over looking fields and farmland. Since being at the Home Dad is a changed man. His colour has returned, he’s more engaged and happier than we have seen him in a very long time and has made several friends with the other residents and staff already. Sadly Dad has Terminal Cancer. Leaving Dads Pallative Care in the hands of these guys is allowing us to enjoy what time we have left with Dad without the stress and worry of trying to care for him at home. We feel confident and happy that Dad is getting all his needs met by the manageress and staff here and we can not thank them enough. We have visited Dad Three times unannounced this week. The first time We found Dad in the garden with the other residents, painting creatures from the sea on paper. We could hear Dads voice from the car park. He’s never sounded or been so engaged or as happy as this in a long time. Wednesday, they were playing ball games with an inflatable beach ball. Dad forgot we were with him and immediately joined in the fun. Today we sat in the “ Quiet Lounge” again overlooking the fantastic countryside and farm land. We were bought a choice of tea and Coffee with biscuits. We spent a wonderful couple of hours with Dad looking a big colour book about Steam Trains!! We feel 100% happy about Dads placement here and would recommend that if you are looking for specialist Dementia Care for your loved ones, this place should be your first Port of call. Thank You Everyone! You’re doing Great!!!
Original Comment Report...