Bob’s Story: Maintaining independence at Winnersh

Finding community at Abbeyfield Winnersh

What began as a short-term stay for respite care turned into a two-year journey of comfort, dignity, and unexpected home. When Geesje’s husband, Bob, first arrived at Abbeyfield Winnersh, neither of them knew it would become the setting for his final years.

In that time, Abbeyfield Winnersh transformed from temporary respite into a true home-from-home. Geesje shares her heartfelt experience of those two years — reflecting on the exceptional care Bob received and the dedicated staff who didn't just do a job, but went above and beyond to treat them like family.

"My late husband, Bob, spent two years at Abbeyfield Winnersh, and I cannot thank the staff and management enough for the exceptional care, compassion and support they showed him and our whole family during that time."

A building set-up for dementia

"We were first recommended Abbeyfield Winnersh by a friend, after visiting several other homes which we were not happy with. From the moment we walked in, there was a clear difference. What stood out immediately, was the sense of freedom and warmth. Winnersh is built especially for people living with dementia, it’s circular build means that residents can walk around freely.

"My husband never liked sitting still, and at Winnersh he had the space to walk around, explore, and move at his own pace. That freedom meant so much to him. He would often say how much he loved it there and, most importantly, that it felt like his home."

A home-from-home 

"He particularly loved spending time in the garden. We would sit together outside, enjoying the fresh air, and it was there that some of his memories would return. Those moments were incredibly precious to us. The atmosphere at Winnersh was always welcoming and full of kindness. There was laughter, conversation, and a genuine sense of community.

"The staff were exceptional. They took the time to really know him – what he enjoyed, what made him smile and what mattered to him as an individual. They always made sure he was eating well, he was comfortable and content, and they did so with kindness and dignity. There were plenty of activities, and he especially loved the music and dancing. In his final weeks, we would dance together, and he always had a smile on his face. He loved rock and roll, and he still knew exactly what he liked."

"As a family, we felt supported, listened to, and truly cared for, and for that I will always be grateful."

Staff went above and beyond

"One of the things that meant the most to us as a family was how supportive Abbeyfield Winnersh were beyond the care of my husband alone. In his room, there was a small settee, so we could sit with him properly and spend time together. I was able to stay overnight, and there was never any sense of being rushed, or in the way. The staff truly thought about the family, making sure we were looked after and able to stay as long as we needed.

"During the time my husband received palliative care, the team went above and beyond. Nothing was ever too much trouble, day or night. Every carer spoke fondly of him, and right up until the end, they ensured he was comfortable, respected, and treated with dignity. You always felt that you could talk openly to staff, that they would listen and help in any way they could. It was clear they genuinely cared.

"Abbeyfield Winnersh also supported families in ways that went beyond daily care. One evening in particular stands out – there was a curry night with the opportunity to be with other family members and share time together. I wanted to go, but was reluctant as I didn’t want to drive back home in the dark. Amanda, the Customer Relations Manager, was adamant that I should attend, and went out of her way to pick me up and drive me back again, so that I didn’t have to drive. That meant a great deal to me, and that I could spend a fun evening with Bob, and connect with other families.

"Looking back, I will always be grateful for the compassion, warmth, and unwavering support we received at Abbeyfield Winnersh. My husband was happy there, felt at home, and was cared for with dignity until the very end. As a family, we felt supported, listened to, and truly cared for, and for that I will always be grateful."

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