Roma’s Story: Reconnecting With a Lifelong Passion

Moving into a care home can be a significant life change, particularly when it means leaving behind a home, a routine and a community that have been familiar for many years. For Roma, moving to The Fleet Care Home in November 2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter. Having lived in Dartmouth for much of her life, she had built strong connections within the local area and treasured her independence. However, as time went on, the practical challenges of living alone in a top-floor flat became increasingly difficult.

The stairs were becoming harder to manage and opportunities for social interaction were becoming less frequent. Although she initially explored respite care and was understandably reluctant about the idea of moving into a care home, Roma's family wanted reassurance that she would be safe, supported and able to enjoy a better quality of life.

What nobody knew at the time was just how transformative that move would become.

A Life Shaped by Creativity and Animals

Roma has always lived an interesting and independent life. A talented entrepreneur, she successfully ran her own business creating handcrafted stuffed hunting animal collectables, with her work being sold to customers around the world.

Her creativity, determination and attention to detail helped build a thriving business and remain important parts of her identity today.

Alongside her creative pursuits, there has always been one enduring passion: horses.

Over the years, Roma owned many horses and developed a deep connection with them. They were far more than a hobby; they represented some of her happiest memories, strongest relationships and most meaningful experiences.

As her circumstances changed and she became less able to access the things she loved, that connection gradually faded from her daily life.

Discovering What Truly Matters

When Roma arrived at The Fleet, the team spent time getting to know her, learning about her life story, her interests and the things that brought her joy.

It quickly became clear that animals played an important role in her wellbeing.The home regularly welcomes visiting animals, including dogs, alpacas, owls and therapy animals, and Roma thoroughly enjoyed these interactions. Yet as conversations continued, staff realised that horses held a particularly special place in her heart.

While the animal visits brought happiness and comfort, they could not quite replace the unique connection she had once enjoyed.

Recognising the significance of this, the team set out to create something truly meaningful.

An Unforgettable Reunion

With careful planning and support, a therapy pony was invited to visit The Fleet. For Roma, the experience was unforgettable.

The moment she saw the pony, her face lit up. Memories came flooding back as she spoke about her years of owning and caring for horses. Staff watched as she became animated, engaged and completely immersed in the moment.

What initially began as a simple idea quickly revealed itself to be something much more powerful.

As Home Manager Marc Chudley recalls:

"Roma has always had a deep love for horses, and when the activities team first suggested bringing a horse into the home, I have to admit I was naturally hesitant. However, the event was truly wonderful. Seeing how much Roma came alive in that moment, her smile, her engagement, the memories it brought back. It was incredibly special. It was a powerful reminder of why I do this job and the difference truly person-centred care can make."

The visit reignited something that had been missing from Roma's life and provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect with a part of her identity that remained incredibly important.

Taking Things One Step Further

Following the success of the pony visit, the team wanted to build upon the experience.

Knowing how much it had meant to Roma, they arranged for her to attend the Devon County Show. Surrounded by horses, farmers and fellow animal enthusiasts, Roma was able to immerse herself in an environment that felt familiar and meaningful. She spent time talking to exhibitors, sharing stories from her own experiences and enjoying the opportunity to be close to horses once again.

Kelly Throne, Head of Community at Drake, reflected on the impact of the outing:"Roma gained significant emotional benefit from her visit to the Devon County

Show, particularly due to her lifelong love of horses, having owned many over the years. She shared how much she enjoyed seeing the horses, which brought back very fond memories for her. When her belongings were moved from her flat, she found great comfort in having her riding bridles brought into the home, as these are among her most treasured possessions. Roma has since continued to express a strong interest in taking part in activities involving horses or donkeys."

The experience was so successful that plans are already in place to support Roma to attend again in the future.

Finding Confidence and Connection

As Roma began reconnecting with her lifelong passion, the wider impact on her wellbeing became increasingly clear.

Staff noticed that she was becoming more engaged in conversations, particularly when discussing horses and her experiences. Sharing memories and stories helped stimulate her thinking, encouraged communication and strengthened her confidence.

Her room was personalised with photographs and horse-themed belongings, helping her feel more at home and maintaining a connection to her past. Over time, Roma also became more involved in life around the home. She began participating in more group activities, building stronger relationships with fellow residents and feeling increasingly comfortable within the community.

The move that she had once approached with hesitation gradually became a place where she felt settled, connected and understood.

Carol Doree, who supports residents across several areas of the home, has seen first-hand the impact these experiences have had.

"Roma loves horses, and when she talks about them, she truly comes alive. Her face lights up with a big smile as she relives those moments. In a wonderful way, she seems younger—almost as if she is experiencing it all over again. It is truly lovely to see. "

More Than Care

For Roma, the most meaningful changes have not simply been about receiving support.

They have been about preserving her identity, celebrating her interests and continuing to enjoy the things that have shaped her life. By taking the time to understand what truly matters to her, the team at The Fleet have helped Roma reconnect with treasured memories, build new friendships and rediscover a sense of purpose.Today, she is more engaged, more confident and more connected to those around her.

Most importantly, she continues to enjoy the passions that have always made her who she is.

Learn More About Life at The Fleet

Every resident arrives with a unique story, and at The Fleet, care begins with understanding the individual behind it. By focusing on personal interests, life experiences and meaningful connections, the team supports residents to continue living fulfilling and rewarding lives.

To find out more about life at The Fleet Care Home or arrange a visit, our friendly team would be delighted to hear from you.