Babcock Community Care Centre

Residents, staff and family members had an exciting time during the Zoo2You visit to our Home. There were several animal species available to view and if residents were brave enough, they could hold and touch them. The five-foot kangaroo was a great hit, as well as the chinchilla, the softest animal in the world, 2 guinea pigs, a large bunny, a bearded dragon, snakes from three to five feet long, and two goats called Patches and Dolly. Residents had to hide their newspapers as some of the animals tried to eat them. Residents also had their photos taken with the animal of their choosing. It was an amazing visit.

Birthday wishes for residents celebrating their birthdays in October go out Esther Giroux, Barbara Driscoll, Frances Bell, Nancy McEachren, Brenda Allen, Maria Oliveira and Sandra Rivard. Randy Grey provided the musical program for the party and everyone enjoyed cake and ice-cream. Residents are preparing for Halloween celebrations at the end of the month, with the arrival of trick or treaters. They always have a great time organizing the huge bags of candy for the upcoming October 31^st handouts. There will be special entertainment during the day for their own party celebration, complete with costumes. Halloween decorating is always a fun time and everyone will decorate a pumpkin to set outside.

Residents gathered in the TV room area to watch a movie they had chosen. Treats and refreshments were served during the showing. Drumfit had several residents participating in the activity area. The program was great exercise. There is a new class called Babcock Pals. It targets residents who do not like to participate in programs where there are large groups. Jess from Music Connections had lots of residents attending during her music program. Bingo was held three times during the week with several lucky winners. A small group of residents gathered for a game of Hoya Cards. Word puzzles had a list of back to school items. Residents always enjoy a sing song. David Skipper gave communion to residents of the Catholic faith. Social hour followed.

Residents boarded the bus for their shopping trip to Walmart. Staff and volunteers assisted them during their shopping and everyone gathered at Mcdonalds for lunch. Sybil and Remy the dog visited everyone during pet therapy. The Book Club met and appreciated listening to Frances Bell read some short novels.  Mary Wootton acted as DJ and everyone enjoyed listening to her selection of oldies. The Food Committee and Residents Council gathered for their regular meeting. Plans were discussed regarding the upcoming events and what food items they would like to have. Residents commented on how the wine and cheese party recently was the best one yet. There was lots of laughter and the food items were delicious.

Jeremy Smith provided a musical program for everyone. He took song requests and you could see lots of toe taping and movement during the songs. Lisa donated flowers and containers to make several beautiful bouquets. Several ladies made bouquets for their fellow residents and placed them in their rooms. They looked amazing. Special thanks to Lisa. The tuck cart made its rounds to each resident’s room where they were able to choose what they needed. Connect Four is a very popular game and residents gather in the activity area to play. Reverend Deb Dolbear-VanBilsen visited and held worship services to those residents wanting to attend. The Nu-Step cross trainers were busy with residents exercising as the recent rain storm briefly stopped all outdoor activities. The Euchre card players had a great game and had some new players to the game.

The murder mystery game was such great fun. Residents were given a hat with their characters name on it and clues were read by Bev. She was dressed as a detective. J.D O’Hara played Colonel Mustard who murdered Mrs. White in the billiards room with a wrench. Car races on the weekend had residents racing a car with their name on it. The lucky winner chose a prize and was able to keep their car. Crystal St. Denis provided a musical performance much to everyone’s delight. Babcock Community welcomes Doreen Browe and IIona Freeman as our newest residents.

Please click here for our October 2024 Activity Calendar.

Residents once again boarded the Magic Train Ride from their chairs at the Home, heading to Toronto from Windsor. Via Rail was their choice of trains. Along the way the scenery was amazing and this included lakes, canals and many small towns and cities. It was a great virtual trip!

The Peach Social was a great success. The dining areas were decorated in a pleasing colour of yellow to compliment the day. The tables were set up with yellow table cloths to set the mood for the social. The peach pies purchased from Union Bakery in Dresden were so delicious. Everyone enjoyed a slice of peach pie along with vanilla ice cream.

Residents and family members had a great time reminiscing as they viewed several photos from some of the activities we have had in the past. They included the crowning of the King and Queen, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and the Safari Elephant Party, where residents participated in a fun game of Ring Toss Elephant’s Trunk.  Residents gathered in the activity area for craft day. They decided to make individual airplanes and decorated them with many colours, stickers, and gems. Next time some thought they would try and make one huge airplane as a joint effort.

Activity staff toured the tuck cart around the building and into the resident rooms with several items for purchase. One-on-one visits are appreciated by everyone and scheduled regularly. Music therapy is another fun program for residents. The monthly birthday party for September was held on Thursday with Randy Grey providing the entertainment. Birthday wishes are extended to J.D O’Hara and Anne Douglas. Cake, ice cream and refreshments were served. Bingo was held 3 times over the week with several lucky winners. The HeartBeats Club gathered for their fast beat music exercise program.  

Residents are busy exercising on the Nu-Step cross-trainers in the activity area, along with other exercise equipment suited to their needs. The S’mores social had many coming back for seconds. The chocolate and marshmallow treats were delicious. Mary Wootton held a sing-song and had great participation. Residents are appreciating their daily outdoor walks during this beautiful weather. The card players gathered for a game of Hoya Cards. The Chips and Dip party was a real treat for everyone with a huge selection of treats. Ladder Ball kept everyone on their toes as they played. Word puzzles showed a list of country cooking words.

Grandparents Day was celebrated on Sunday with a wine and cheese party. Shuffleboard players had a great time playing, with J.D. O’Hara having the top score and Gordon Gregory placing second. Zoo2You visited the home with their exotic animals. Babcock Community Care Centre welcomes Helen Drew as their newest resident. Deepest sympathy is extended to the family and friends of the late Dorothy Clark and Vera Berencsi.

Please see below regarding a change in our Medical Director position.

Medical Director Retirement

The Goldies group visited and entertained residents with their musical program. Gayle, Larry and David had residents and staff dancing to many of their favourite songs. The new move and groove camp fire song activity was a huge hit with everyone. They not only sing along to the music but do the actions as well to each song. Pool noodles were used in the movement part of the program. The songs “Sixteen Tons” and “Big John” brought back a lot of good memories.

Pet therapy had Sybil bringing in her dog Remy for a visit. The Book Club gathered to listen to Frances Bell read heart warming stories. Mary Lou DePelsmaeker gave Rosary to residents of the Catholic faith. Everyone had a fun time cutting out elephants and attaching them to sticks on craft day. The Mystery party had residents playing the jelly bean game wearing a blindfold. Residents also tried drawing a picture while blind folded and mystery prizes were awarded. Drumfit had a large group in attendance as well as family members.

Everyone is excited about the Zoo 2 You exotic animal show coming to the Home on September 12th from 1:30 pm To 2:30 pm. Mark your calendar for Resident Council Week September 16th -22nd. Grandparent’s Day is being celebrated on Sunday, September 8th with a wine and cheese party. Residents appreciate the activity department handing out ice cold popsicles during the hot spells we have been experiencing. Outdoor walks are ongoing as weather permits.

Socrates Cafe was set up in the activity room where Frances Bell and Sharron took turns reading from the books Vinyl Cafe and Chicken Soup for the Soul. They also read articles from a few of the local newspapers. Residents really are very competitive as they play games such as Hoya Cards, Connect 4, Magnetic fishing, dice games, bingo and word puzzles. Reverend Deb Dolbear-VanBilsen held worship services for those residents wanting to attend. The Faith Haven choir visited and entertained residents with their beautiful singing voices. Everyone really enjoys their visit.

Radio day was hosted by Mary Wootton. She read stories from the 1950’s and 1960’s, jokes from the past and quotes, and a few of Groucho Marx famous quotes. The Heartbeat Club had a great turnout as they exercised to some fast-paced music. The Nu-Step cross trainers are always busy in the Activity area overlooking the patio, as residents are exercising. Randy Grey and his granddaughter entertained residents at the monthly birthday party. Cake and ice-cream were served at the party.

Residents participated in the new Horizon Painting program. They used lots of bright colours. Music Connections had residents singing along to a variety of hymns as well as songs from the past. The Peach Pie Social was enjoyed by everyone. More details will be posted in next week news. Babcock Community Care welcomes Norm Courts and Vera Berencsi as their newest residents. Residents will be boarding the bus to head to the Chatham Wal-Mart for the day on September 10th. Everyone enjoys shopping!

The Men’s Club gathered in the Activity area for their requested jumbo hotdogs loaded with a huge variety of toppings. A social hour followed and everyone had a great time. They voted at their next meeting they would prefer tacos with all the trimmings. The jungle safari party was enjoyed by family members, staff and residents. Residents help decorate the area with an animal theme. Each table was set up with a jungle tree centrepiece. Refreshments and treats were served on animal cups and plates. Animal masks were available if they preferred to wear one, as well as bracelets. Jungle music was playing in the background. Everyone had a great day.

Bingo was held three times during the week with several lucky winners. Birthday wishes are extended to Kay Cowan and Ida Russell who are celebrating their special day in August. Randy Grey provided the entertainment for the party. Cake and ice cream was served, along with refreshments. Sybil and Remy the dog visited during the animal therapy session. Residents were very busy playing a variety of games this past week. They included Wii Bowling, Wheel of Words, Cup pong, Viking chess, Virtual quiz, toilet paper rolling, ring toss, word puzzles, balloon toss and Hoya cards.

Residents enjoyed their scenic bus tour to Puddleford Tree Farm in Kent Bridge where they saw all the beautiful sunflowers. The drive was very scenic as well. On the way back they stopped in Thamesville for an ice cream treat. The Nu-Step cross trainers are always busy with residents exercising. The Heartbeats Club is another fantastic way to get their bodies moving as they listen to the fast-paced music. Everyone always has a great workout. Outdoor walks as weather permits are another great way to exercise. You will see residents touring around the village streets with assistance.

The Faith Haven choir visited and sang many beautiful hymns. Residents always look forward to their visits. David Skipper gave communion to residents of the Catholic faith. Afterwards residents appreciated the cold treats, drumsticks and creamsicles. Drumfit had a large turnout who tapped away on the equipment provided as they tried to keep the beat to music playing in the background. Reverend Deb Dolbear-VanBilsen held church services for those residents wanting to attend.

Residents boarded the bus once again for a scenic drive through Bothwell and area where they stopped for an ice cream treat. Everyone enjoyed the pizza and wing night. A social hour followed. Music Connections with Jess had everyone singing along to their favourite tunes. The Activity department whipped up some delicious banana splits for residents. They were perfect on such a hot day. Residents really enjoyed watching the Olympics on the television, especially the Canadian athletes competing.

Wanda and friends visited and residents enjoyed hearing bible stories depicted by flannel graph, and the musical program they provided. The Women’s club gathered in the activity area for their meeting and enjoyed a social hour along with the perogies they had requested.

Babcock Community Care Centre welcomes Austin Bauer as their newest resident. Deepest sympathy is extended to the family and friends of the late Edna Abbott. The CMS Dental Hygiene Services provide quality mobile dental services to our facility and are available to answer your questions about the program by calling Cheryl at 519-350-6267. This is a new Canadian dental care program for seniors. Congratulations to the new resident council president Doreen Getty.

Residents had a great experience when the herd of mini cows and goats arrived at their front door. They stayed for almost 3 hours and set up in the grassed area by the outdoor patio. The expressions on resident’s faces showed exactly how much they enjoyed the visit from the farm animals. Local residents, family and friends, along with staff and their children attended the event.                                                                                                              

Bingo is very popular with everyone and we are very grateful for all the families who donate extra cash to the activity to make it even more fun. Wanda and friends visited and depicted bible stories by flannel graph. Residents enjoy the storyteller’s visit and everyone signed a card showing how much they appreciated her visits. The Cooking Club gathered in the activity area to whip up a batch of peanut butter cookies. They were distributed throughout the building and everyone thought they were delicious.

Sybil and Remi the dog visited for their regular pet therapy visits. July birthday wishes are extended to the following residents who celebrate their special day this month. They included Gordon Gregory, John Marshall, Eugene Kaminski, Dorothy Clark and Maria Baptista. Everyone enjoyed the musical entertainment provided by Randy Grey at the party. They were served birthday cake and ice cream.

Residents are encouraged to vote for their new Resident Council President this month. The nominees include Alan Gooding, Doreen Getty and Brenda Allen. The Mexican / Spanish Fiesta held on Thursday was a lot of fun. Residents had a great time all dressed up with their huge, wildly-coloured Sombrero hats on. Pictures were posted on FaceBook showing all the happy faces and good times.

The Activity department staff has one on one visits with residents on a regular basis. They assist them with various tasks. Some include mastering the iPads provided for their use, reading the local newspaper to a few who require vision assistance, typing up poems for a very talented resident who likes to write his own, and many other ways that make their home more enjoyable.

Mary Lou Depelsmaeker visited and gave Communion to residents of the Catholic faith. A social hour followed. The Socrates Cafe group met in the activity area and several stories were read aloud. Snakes and ladders, Hoya cards, Wheel of Words, Sling hockey and various card games played on the tablet such as Ladder Ball, Connect Four, Cup Pong, Balloon Toss, Wii Bowling and Duck races.

Dan Davidson visited and entertained residents with his guitar musical program. Several joined in the sing song. Craft day had residents making up a colourful craft to be used later for a game they wanted to play.  Camp fire songs had residents moving and singing along especially when the “boom, chicka boom” tune was played. S’mores, cones and mini brownies were served along with refreshments. The new ice machine shaver has been very useful during this heat wave we have been experiencing this summer. Slushies with a variety of flavours are very tasty and cool.

The Women’s club have been requesting chicken perogies with fried onions and cherry perogies for the dessert for their upcoming meeting. National Senior Citizen’s day is on August 21^st. We will definitely be celebrating during the day. Residents are appreciating their outdoor roll or strolls around the village streets assisted by a staff member. It gives them the opportunity to check on what is new in town. They have been noticing amazing changes to the Little Kin Park.

The tuck cart stocked with several necessities is a welcome sight for many residents as it is pushed around the halls. The Nu-Step cross trainers are always busy with residents trying to improve their physical well being. Foot care and manicures are scheduled on a regular basis for all residents. The hairdresser makes his regular weekly visits to ensure everyone is looking their best. Physiotherapy treatments are given by the Physiotherapist from our local hospital as needed for every resident.

Scenic drives have been scheduled in July almost every week. Residents really enjoy getting out into the countryside and villages around this area. They make sure they stop for a delicious ice cream cone as well. Babcock Community Care welcomes Dorothy Broom as their newest resident. Deepest sympathy is extended to the family and friends of the late Licinia Marques, Lois Cornwall and Gordon Doyle.

The strawberry social was a huge success. Everyone had a great time outside on the patio. The weather cooperated and all proceeds from the strawberries and cake were donated to Babcock Resident Council.  Crystal St. Denis provided the musical program and residents had a great time singing along while enjoying the music. $376.00 was donated to the Council. 

Father’s Day was also a very busy day with family and friends dropping in for a visit. The Activity department decided on the theme “Hats off To Dad’s Day”. They decided to make a top hat craft for the special occasion. Bev Close gave out beautiful flower boutonnieres earlier in the morning to each male resident. The dining area was decorated in honour of all the fathers. Bev Close picked up some special treats from Tim Horton’s for the men having coffee break. The word puzzle game using men’s names was very challenging.

The town wide yard sales had a few residents assisted by staff checking out all the bargains on Saturday. The Village was very busy with bargain hunters touring around the village. Residents really enjoyed the banana popsicles on the patio along with chocolate drumsticks. Great way to cool down on a hot day! 

The stone painting program had residents showing how beautiful a simple rock can look. There were many bright vivid colours applied to the stones. They were finished off with a clear coat to make them last longer. Residents working on their stones had different ideas on what they wanted to do with them once completed.

Bingo was played three different days this week with many lucky winners. The Tuck shop cart touring throughout the building is a welcome sight for residents who are anxious to spend their Bingo winnings. John Carter gave Communion to residents of the Catholic faith. The Heartbeats club gathered for their fast-paced music exercise program. Everyone had great energy along with huge smiles.

Remy the therapy dog visited along with the owner Sybil. Everyone is excited to see Remy every visit. Residents are appreciating their tours around the village streets weather permitting. Cam Denomme visited and entertained residents with his musical program. The S’mores social was held the same day. Everyone enjoyed the special treat. Bingo was played three times during the week with many lucky winners. The Physiotherapist from the local hospital visited and provided physiotherapy to those residents in need of it.  The bus tours are always fun where they head to the lake area and usually stop for an ice-cream treat.

The Men’s group gathered in the activity area for a game of sling hockey. They decided next meeting they would like ballpark franks as their special meeting lunch. Residents chose a special greeting card and signed it for Wanda the storyteller and friends. They really appreciate her visits.

Residents played a game of Beach ball volleyball. Cup pong is also a favourite game for many. Nerf battle had residents shooting at a target for points. Ladder golf was another great game. The Book Club has started again. Frances Bell has read many heartwarming stories to everyone over the years. Hoya Cards had a small group playing one of their most favourite card  games. The Music Connections activity had several residents listening to a variety of songs from the past. The Women’s Club gathered in the activity area for a social time. One resident asked if they could plan some polish foods for their next meeting.

Pamphlets were handed out to residents for the new Socrates Cafe program. It involves listening, thinking and talking about life. MaryLou DePelsmaeker visited and gave Catholic Communion to residents of the Catholic faith. Mary Wootton had a sing along for residents as she played many of their favourite old time music. Residents truly appreciate their one

The month of May was a very busy month for everyone. The plans for building the new nursing home are progressing steadily ahead. Residents have enjoyed playing several games this month. They include Bingo, snakes and ladders, magnetic fishing, cup pong, Viking chess, ball throw, family feud, Wii Bowling, wheel of words game, U connect, Hoya cards and table hockey.

Residents always enjoy the pet therapy program set up by the Activity department. Remy the dog with her owner Sybil visited. Residents are out and about everyday, weather permitting, on their tour around the village streets. The Nu-Step cross trainer is very busy with residents exercising in the morning. The outdoor patio looks amazing with all the flowers blooming. Activity department is doing a great job watering the plants. Several new ornaments have been added to the landscaping around each patio. Special thanks to the Winter family for donating the beautiful decorations in memory of their mother that are on display attached to the building for everyone to enjoy.

Physiotherapy was scheduled four times over the week with the Physiotherapist from Four Counties Health Services. Joel Horvath visited and provided a musical program for everyone. Drumfit had a great turnout with residents rocking the building with their drum skills. The word puzzle trivia was all about country cooking. The Goldies visited and entertained residents with their musical program.  The Susie Q sing-along is always a favorite for many. Wanda Hazelwood and friends visited and presented bible stories on a flannel graph. The Heartbeat club met and had a great social time, as well as exercise.

Catholic Communion was given to residents of the Catholic faith by Mary Lou DePelsmaeker. Several residents enjoy their Keurig coffee selection provided each day. Tim bits were purchased as an extra treat. Residents appreciated the musical entertainment provided by Don and Bonnie Cook. Residents had a great time creating flower pictures. The pretty pictures were all set up in the dining area on display for everyone to view.

Mary Wooton held church services for those residents wanting to attend. The Men’s Club met in the activity area and they had a great social time, as well as the special treats they requested. Residents appreciate their one-on-one visit. Trivia always is a challenging time. Bev Close helped by whipping up a batch of slushies with the new ice machine. Randy Grey provided the entertainment for the monthly birthday party. Everyone enjoyed cake and ice cream at the party. Birthday wishes are extended to the following residents who are celebrating their special day in June: Ron Garrison, Licinia Marques and Edna Abbott.

Residents are looking forward to their scenic bus tours on June 18^th. Their destination is to Port Glasgow. Another group already boarded the bus to the same area last week and stopped to have an ice cream treat near the water. Mark the 24th of June on your calendars and plan on attending the annual Strawberry Social from 6 to 8 pm. Crystal St. Denis will be providing the entertainment for the evening outdoors, weather permitting. Donations to Residents Council are welcome.  Bring your lawn chairs and stay awhile!

The Women’s Club gathered in the activity area. They had their social time and enjoyed their requested snack of quesadillas with cheddar, tomato wraps and all the trimmings. Croissant donuts followed for dessert. Father’s Day weekend coming up will be celebrated with a table hockey game to start the morning right and around 2 pm donuts will be served along with refreshments. “Hats off to Fathers” is scheduled on Sunday, June 16^th at 2 pm. Residents are enjoying their cold treats served on the patio. The Activity Department along with Dietary staff are planning for their upcoming Canada Day celebrations.  Babcock Community Care welcomes Licinia Marques as their newest resident.

Residents enjoyed a visit from Remy the dog and the owner, Sybil. During the day residents worked at making folk art flowers. Others had fun playing Bean Bag Toss, and you could hear the many giggles as they aimed for the target. Later in the evening everyone watched the movie “Top Gun.” Music Connections with Jess had residents participating in a sing-a-long. Jeremy Smith provided musical entertainment. He sang Happy Birthday to residents celebrating their special day.

The new outdoor large-size Connect Four game is very popular with everyone, and other games such as sling hockey, Euchre, Scrabble and Bingo are also favourites. Thank you to the family members and anyone else who donated extra cash for the Bingo games. Poke-a-flower went over very well. They used plastic cups and punched holes in them for the design. The Women’s club gathered in the activity room to prepare a variety of smoothies with the newly purchased ice machine to enjoy during their meeting.

The Media machine was set up in the dining area for residents to play the game of their choice. The Physiotherapist from the local hospital visited and provided physiotherapy to those residents in need. The local Mennonite group choir visited and entertained residents with their beautiful voices singing spiritual wellness songs. Residents gathered in the activity area to once again paint their designs on silk scarves. The end results were amazing and they could keep the finished product or gift it.  Social hour on a Sunday afternoon had residents, friends and family members indulging in Mocktails, fresh strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, pineapple and blackberries, along with cheese and crackers.

Spring Fling, formerly known as the Elegant Dinner, was a busy day for everyone. The primping and pampering started at 10 am, make-up, manicures along with nail polish was applied, with some having hand massages as well. Residents enjoyed all of it. Residents were dressed for the occasion, many wearing the silk scarves they had designed. The photo booth proved to be a great hit. Residents had a chance to have their picture taken with anyone of their choice including family members and friends.  The dining area was decorated for the dinner displaying brightly coloured table cloths, along with matching utensils and dishes.  The Dietary department cooked up a delicious meal. The wine glasses were distributed along with several choices of spirit free wine. Crystal St .Denis and her twins visited and provided the musical program for the event. Vance Blackmore, hairdresser, made sure all the ladies had their hair all done to perfection for the occasion. This event is scheduled once yearly and everyone looks forward to it.

Randy Grey provided the entertainment for the monthly birthday party. Congratulations to the following residents who celebrate their special day in May: Tom Moorby, Judith Winter, Albertine Letourneau, Ruth Gibson, Bertha Postman and Hilda Blackhall. Everyone was served cake and ice cream. Residents cast their votes in the Activity area for the Provincial election. Residents appreciate the walking program outdoors where they are assisted to tour around the streets in the village, stopping to talk to whoever comes across their path. Residents of the Catholic faith appreciate Ted Quenneville, John Carter, Mary Lou DePelsmaeker and Dave Skipper giving communion at different times throughout the month.   

Drum-fit was set up and several residents attended. They had great fun trying to keep up the beat with the music in the background while they played the drums. The Tuck cart made its way around the home for residents wanting to purchase items from the great selection. Wanda Hazelwood, storyteller, and friends visited and provided a lovely service along with music. Everyone enjoys her visit.

Nursing week was celebrated in May with a special dinner purchased from Subway for all staff. We would like to thank you for your unwavering commitment to resident well-being and let you know your exceptional care and kindness have not gone unnoticed. Happy Nurses Week!

Mark your calendar for the strawberry social held on June 24^th between 6pm to 8 pm outdoors weather permitting. Crystal St. Denis will be providing the musical entertainment. Babcock Community Care welcomes their newest resident, Judy Winter.