Making resident wishes come true

Sometimes a long-held interest or unfinished ambition remains important, even in later life. It may have been spoken about in passing. It may have been part of someone’s identity for decades.

At Colten Care, we do not treat those moments lightly. When it is safe and appropriate, and when it genuinely reflects the person, we look for ways to make it happen. Not as a spectacle, but as a continuation of who they are.

John Celebrates 75th With Campervan Road Trip to the New Forest

More than you might expect

These are not typical expectations of a care home. They are made possible because teams know the individual well, work closely with families, and plan carefully. Behind each experience sits practical organisation, professional judgement and attention to safety. What looks effortless is always prepared properly.

care home resident in a plane

John takes to the skies

John was on top of the world after our team at Avon Reach helped him achieve a lifelong dream of flying a plane! John took to the skies in a dual-controlled Piper Warrior for a 30-minute flight, even flying over Avon Reach.
care home resident june in a racecar

June puts the pedal to the metal

June, a resident at our care home in Salisbury, Braemar Lodge, had a ‘grand prix’ wish come true when she drove a racing car round several laps of the UK’s fastest racetrack, Thruxton Circuit.

Pam & Tony’s anniversary meal

Pam and Tony Husband, our only married couple at The Aldbury Dementia Care Home in Poole, enjoyed a candlelit setting and a bespoke menu for their date in the home’s summerhouse, The Retreat.
care home residents on steam train

Abbotts Barton’s Watercress Line trip

To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, residents from Abbotts Barton in Winchester stepped back in time with a special journey on the 1940s-style Watercress Line, bringing to life the nostalgia of a bygone era.
Rene's wish to celebrate her 101st birthday at "the pub"

Rene’s wish to celebrate her 101st birthday at “the pub”

Olwen's wish to meet her favourite singers, Il Divo

Olwen’s wish to meet her favourite singers, Il Divo

Ed's wish to be driven in a classic MG

Ed’s wish to be driven in a classic MG

Elizabeth's wish to watch a live musical

Elizabeth’s wish to watch a live musical

Gill's wish to visit a cat café

Gill’s wish to visit a cat café

Erika's wish to dance in a studio

Erika’s wish to dance in a studio

Evelyn's wish to meet Paddington Bear

Evelyn’s wish to meet Paddington Bear

Rob's wish to meet The King of Rock and Roll

Rob’s wish to meet The King of Rock and Roll

Francis' wish to meet Patch the Pony

Francis’ wish to meet Patch the Pony

Ethel's wish to go swimming on her 100th birthday

Ethel’s wish to go swimming on her 100th birthday

Richard's wish to go for a picnic at the park

Richard’s wish to go for a picnic at the park

Patrick's wish to go to Bournemouth Pride Parade

Patrick’s wish to go to Bournemouth Pride Parade

Sue's wish to try indoor skydiving

Sue’s wish to try indoor skydiving

Mollie's wish to visit the cinema at Christmas

Mollie’s wish to visit the cinema at Christmas

John's wish to see a Shire horse again

John’s wish to see a Shire horse again

Dori's wish to sing in a choir

Dori’s wish to sing in a choir

Woodpeckers residents' wish to take a carriage ride through the New Forest

Woodpeckers residents’ wish to take a carriage ride through the New Forest

Carol's wish to enjoy a "drive-in" movie experience

Carol’s wish to enjoy a “drive-in” movie experience

Built on understanding, delivered with structure

Part of a wider standard

Resident wishes are not separate from daily care. They grow from the same understanding that guides everyday routines.

“All About Me” ensures that we know the individual properly. Refined Living ensures that the home runs smoothly enough to create space for moments like these. Clinical oversight ensures that risks are assessed and managed responsibly.

Together, this makes it possible to support experiences that many would assume are no longer achievable.

Care that goes further, when it counts

Why it matters

Wishes aren’t just big, one-off events. For us, they’re part of a broader commitment to recognising each resident as an individual

Families often tell us that these moments change how they see things. They recognise their relative’s confidence returning, notice familiar personality traits reappearing, and feel reassured that the person they have always known is still visible within daily life.

That is what this page represents. Care that protects dignity, preserves identity and, when it genuinely matters, is prepared to go further in thoughtful and well considered ways.

Frequently asked questions

From arts and crafts to music, gardening, pamper sessions, themed days and day trips — our homes offer a rich and varied programme tailored to our residents’ interests. We also go a step further by helping residents fulfil meaningful personal wishes, from small moments of joy to extraordinary experiences.

All our staff receive comprehensive training not just in care skills and safety, but also in communication, dementia understanding, and person-centred approaches. Our culture is built on empathy, respect, and always asking, “What matters most to this person?”

Absolutely. Family input is incredibly valuable and always welcome. Many of our most memorable wishes have come from conversations with loved ones — whether it’s recreating a childhood memory or organising a surprise celebration.

We make it a priority to check in with every resident regularly, especially those who may be less vocal or outgoing. Through quiet chats, one-to-one time, gentle encouragement, and meaningful observation, we ensure everyone has the chance to express what matters to them.

Yes — safety is always our top priority. Every wish or activity is carefully planned and risk-assessed by our experienced team, in consultation with families and health professionals if needed. We tailor the experience to ensure it’s enjoyable and appropriate for each resident’s abilities.

Of course! As soon as someone joins us, we start learning about them and what brings them joy. Whether it’s a bucket list dream or a small comfort from home, we’re here to make life fulfilling right from the start.

No — most daily activities and many of the special experiences we organise are included in the care we provide. Our priority is making sure residents live a joyful, fulfilling life without added stress or complexity.

In cases like weekly minibus trips, individuals will need to cover their own entry fee and refreshments. Additionally, if a wish involves significant travel or specialist equipment, there may be costs involved — but we’ll always discuss this openly with families in advance. Often, local community partners and kind donations help us make even the most ambitious dreams come true at little or no cost to the resident.

Speak to one of our friendly Customer Support Advisors to better understand our fees and what is included.