A new day care centre has opened in Chadwell Heath that is hoping to give the elderly a chance to get out of their homes and into a “bright and exciting” environment.

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)

Situated on The Green at Little Heath in Chadwell Heath, Rowallan House was started back in 1982 by Alan and Marina Stack, and now due to demand the family has opened a new day care centre.

Rowallan House originally opened in 1982, but the new day care centre opened last Tuesday (May 22).

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)

When it opened in 1982 it was a 30 bedded home for the elderly and has now grown over 36 years to 41 beds catering for the elderly and those requiring dementia care including those under the age of 65.

The new centre has its own dedicated area with a dining room that doubles up for a place to play games and take part in a number of different activities.

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)

There is also a separate lounge and TV room, and a garden for residents.

It is also part of “Dementia Friends” and members of the Alzheimer’s Society and the centre carry’s out specific activities for those experiencing dementia including reminiscence and recall sessions.

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)

Rowallan House has now been passed on in the family and taken over by Alan and Marina’s son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Nicky Stack, alongside Mark’s brother Kevin Stack.

Nicky said that residents at the centre are given the opportunity to take part in quizzes, bingo sessions and games and activities which are tailored to meet their needs, including movement and drama, arts and crafts, reminiscence and life history.

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)

She said: “We are proud to offer not only excellent service but that added personal touch so often only found in family-run homes and have been caring for the local community for over 36 years

“The centre is perfect if you are a carer in need of a break or just need the peace of mind your loved one is being looked after while you are at work.

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)

“The centre is an opportunity to bring the elderly out of their homes and into a bright exciting environment.”

Ilford Recorder: Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath.Residents at the Rowallan Day Care Centre in Little Heath. (Image: Archant)