Kings Lodge Testimonials
I came into the Lodge after a lengthy stay in the Royal Surrey Hospital. The staff, a combination of Nurses and care workers, are all very well trained and more importantly experienced; there is an ocean of difference between training and experience.
The rooms are in many ways better than other similar establishments I have been to, mainly because there is a ceiling based hoist system that takes the client directly from the bed into the shower, which is one of the better features. No matter how good the carers and nurses are, you can experience being hoisted onto a shower seat and then further hoisted onto a lavatory which all adds to the person’s angst and could exacerbate any trauma that had resulted in hospitalisation in the first place.
Recuperation is enhanced by the grounds which are extensive. There is a path around the garden leading to a summer house and shaded walkway. It has a well-stocked pond, with Koi Carp, Shubunkin and Goldfish, all of which adds to the ambience, which is greater than the sum of its parts.
In addition to the medical side, physiotherapy adds to the holistic approach which Kings Lodge has generated. Food also plays an important part in recuperation and we have a resident chef who gets to know residents and their dietary needs, should that be for medical or religious reasons. The Catering Department will even provide cakes or other suitable delicacies to celebrate birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions.
Speech therapy is tackled in a more subtle manner to the group as a whole, by providing the opportunity to join in communal singing, something that is appreciated by the majority of residents.
The social well-being of residents is also enhanced by frequent outings, to the Bluebell Railway for example, and even to the nearby MS respite centre where residents and guests were entertained to an open day which included a visitation by a family farm!
In conclusion, although nobody intends to become ill, everybody will need time and an environment in which recovery can take place. Whilst we would all dream of recuperating in an idyllic tropical paradise the reality is likely to be somewhat different and Kings Lodge is, if not the best, is certainly up there with them.
From Mr Kim Bartlett
(Resident of Kings Lodge)