Keeping Connections Warm: The Many Benefits of the Tea Trolley
That familiar rumble of the ‘Tea Trolley’ down the hallway – It means more than you might realise.
The coffee and tea trolley is a much-loved service across Mayflower that brings comfort and joy to residents every day. It's not just about enjoying a hot cuppa, but about the socialisation and connections that the trolley brings to our community.
Social Interaction
As the trolley rumbles from door to door, residents have the opportunity to chat and build new connections. Socialisation is important for mental health and wellbeing, and the coffee and tea trolley can encourage residents to engage with others and feel a sense of belonging. When visiting your loved one, the hot cuppa can be the social lubrication needed to get conversations rolling. You may even choose to shout your loved one a cappuccino at one of our cafes, such as Café Vibe.
Comfort and Warmth
Providing warm beverages offers a sense of comfort and warmth, particularly during the colder months. Plus, the trolley is an effective way to ensure residents are staying hydrated throughout the day, which is essential for their health. Staying hydrated helps seniors maintain energy levels, supports cognitive function, and aids in preventing health issues like urinary tract infections and constipation. The aroma of hot coffee also brings a sense of nostalgia.
Independence and Choice
Independence and choice are also important factors in aged care. With the coffee and tea trolley, residents can make their own choices about what they want to drink and when, giving them a sense of control and independence.
A Familiar Routine
Another benefit is the comfort of familiarity. Enjoying morning and afternoon tea for many, and having the trolley available can help to maintain a sense of continuity and routine. While residents are taking part in other activities, such as board games, discussion groups or knit and chat – the addition of a hot cuppa is often the secret ingredient to get conversations rolling.
Putting Residents First – with a Person-Centred Care Approach.
Our food services team, including team member Jegan, play a vital role in providing person-centred care. Each day, a fresh cake or sweet treat is made in-house by our talented chefs and cooks to accompany the trolley. And, as they go door to door, our team connect with residents, remembering their favourite brew and dietary requirements, listening to stories and hearing about their day.
The coffee and tea trolley is a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall quality of life for residents across Mayflower, promoting socialisation, comfort, hydration, independence, and familiarity.
Pictured top of page: Mayflower Brighton Food Services team member Jegan and John meet at John's door each day, building on their meaningful connection, "I really enjoy chatting with residents and hearing about their day," says Jegan.
