ECL Loughton helps customer with long Covid regain her sense of purpose

Cookie’s journey to the ECL Loughton day centre began after a long battle with Covid-19 in early March 2020. The illness significantly impacted her health, resulting in a six-month hospital stay and a period in a coma. Post-discharge, Cookie has been dealing with long Covid, requiring oxygen 24 hours a day and experiencing severe fatigue and breathlessness. Unable to return to her former active lifestyle, attending the day centre has been a vital part of her recovery and wellbeing.

Living with her husband in Loughton, close to the centre, Cookie found the transition to a quieter life challenging. Pat has always been busy; at one time she juggled two jobs - working during the day at Medequip, where she handled orders for home care equipment, and in the evenings at a canteen.

Before falling ill with COVID, Cookie was working at Millbrook on the telephones taking orders for equipment such as riser recliners, nursing beds etc for social services, which kept her busy.The abrupt halt to her busy routine left her feeling bored and restless.

On her first visit to the day centre, Cookie was understandably nervous but curious about the opportunities for social interaction. Reflecting on her initial experience, she said: “I didn’t really know what to expect, but despite being a bit nervous, I was interested to see what it was like and if it would be good for me. I am not good at doing nothing and I was bored being at home every day.”

Cookie settled in quickly at the centre. By the end of her first day, she had earned her nickname "Cookie," a playful moniker given by the staff due to there being three customers attending called Pat at the time. The name stuck, and now everyone at the centre calls her Cookie. Her integration into the centre was seamless, and she became known for her enthusiasm and willingness to help with various activities.

Cookie’s participation extends beyond enjoying the activities such as arts and crafts, cards, dominoes, chair fit, and baking. She actively helps the staff, which she finds fulfilling as it provides her with a sense of purpose. She assists in leading activities, plays a significant role in the customer forum by taking minutes, and helps with administrative tasks like laminating and creating displays.

Socialising with friends at the centre and engaging in various activities has greatly benefitted Cookie’s physical and mental health. The centre’s beauty salon is one of her favourite spots, where she enjoys getting her nails done by Linda and having her hair styled by the visiting mobile hairdresser.

Cookie’s husband and daughter have noticed the positive impact the centre has had on her life. They appreciate that she has a place to go where she can stay active and engaged. Participating in chair fit classes has helped with her long Covid symptoms, and the staff support her in doing the exercises recommended by her doctor and occupational therapist. Cookie also enjoys ball games and hoopla, which aid her mobility. On days when she feels more fatigued, she still participates by keeping score.

Cookie’s advice to anyone considering attending a day centre is simple: “Come in and have a look and see what you think, you might be surprised! I’ve seen people who, when they first get here, say it’s not for them, but after spending a day here, they love it and come back again. We’re a friendly, welcoming bunch, and the staff are all extremely helpful.”

Oliver Mann, Lead Manager at ECL Loughton, highlights Cookie’s importance to the centre: “Cookie hasn’t been with us for long but already she’s part of the family. She’s more like a volunteer than a customer as she is so involved with our activities and enjoys helping out around the centre. She’s got a great sense of humour; she is part of the team here really, and she brightens up everyone’s day when she’s here.”

About ECL Day Centres

ECL operates a network of day centres across Essex, offering both on-site and community-based activities. These centres provide a ‘home from home’ environment that fosters friendship and community interaction, helping to reduce social isolation. The activities are designed to maintain independence and encourage greater connection with the community.

The emphasis of ECL’s services is on creating relationships to prevent loneliness and isolation among older adults.

For individuals living with conditions associated with dementia, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, ECL day centres offer a safe space with specially trained staff, providing much-needed respite for both the individuals and their loved ones.

Interested in trying a taster day at one of ECL’s day centres? Book your free trial