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A daughter was reunited with her 94-year-old mum on her birthday thanks to one care home's creative solution to social distancing.
Shirley Tulloch was able to meet up and even have a chat with her elderly mother Joan who is a resident at Haslington Lodge in Greenhithe.
Since lockdown virtual visits and waving from afar have been the norm as care homes seek to limit opportunities for the virus to spread to the most vulnerable.
But the specialist dementia care provider was able to devise a creative solution to social distancing in the form of a "Looking Window" which allows loved ones to "look in" and meet face-to-face.
They can then chat over the phone with the care home providing a designated line for relatives to ring and speak to family members.
It was put to good use with the recent visit of Shirley who came to visit surprise her mum for her 94th birthday after three months apart.
"I missed the regular contact with her and I know she did," she said.
"I was sad I couldn’t see her on Mother’s Day. Knowing her 94th birthday was coming up the thought of not seeing her on the day was upsetting."
Mum Joan was brought to the window by the carers who upon seeing her daughter instantly broke into a smile.
She said "I have missed seeing everyone, it’s not quite the same simply speaking on the phone.”
Daughter Shirley said: "Looking through a window...a simple thing but to see her smile and laugh and speak with her is such an uplifting experience for both of us in these difficult times.”
The care home's "drop in" service is available on a booking rota where time slots are booked for residents and relatives to meet.
Adam Hutchison, managing director at Haslington Lodge said: “Our residents have been able to stay in touch with family and friends via technology such as Zoom, email and telephone, but nothing quite replaces that face to face human contact.
“For the residents and staff this has been the perfect solution to allow those connections, relationships, and friendships to blossom once more, and all in a safe and secure environment.”
