Trailblazing Bramley Court sees remarkable improvements for residents after ditching caffeine

A caffeine free study is blazing a trail and improving resident care for residents at Bramley Court. The home is taking part in the study in collaboration with Anglia Ruskin University and Care England, with the interim results showing significant health and wellbeing benefits for residents and the team. Gill, who regularly visits her aunt …

A caffeine free study is blazing a trail and improving resident care for residents at Bramley Court.

The home is taking part in the study in collaboration with Anglia Ruskin University and Care England, with the interim results showing significant health and wellbeing benefits for residents and the team.

Gill, who regularly visits her aunt Penny, at Bramley Court praised the outcomes of the study so far.

“I have noticed a much calmer environment on my visits since introducing decaf drinks. The residents seem happier, it’s a joy.” she said.

While the initial focus was on reducing falls, the home has seen an array of positive outcomes including better sleep, reduced agitation, a boost to physical and mental wellbeing and increased social engagement, especially among residents living with dementia.

“Mum used to pull a face at the coffee from the machine in reception but she seems to like the new one,” said Anne, whose Mum Jean is a resident at Bramley Court.

“I’m also told by the night team at the home that mum sleeps better too.

“We can now get some really flavoursome ground coffee and the brand used by Bramley is one of the best I’ve tasted.

“I also used to think I needed a strong caffeine coffee to kick start my day but a few days after trying my own caffeine free trial I slept for over nine hours!”

According to research conducted by Care England, going caffeine free has contributed to a reduction in falls of 35% and if scaled up nationwide could save the NHS £85million annually.

With just two residents opting out of the trial, 98% of participants remained engaged, experiencing first hand the benefits of reduced caffeine intake.

The trial, which included methods like blind taste testing and regular audits, continues to track improvements in sleep, mobility, and overall health for residents.

Bramley Court has previously taken part in a wide variety of other studies to help lead the way in dementia care and also offers personalised exercise programmes for residents.

“Before the study, I was drinking over 20 cups of coffee a day,” said care home manger Judith Wroe.

“Now, I only have one before work, and my blood pressure has significantly improved—from 150/85 to 113/73, with a lower heart rate and no more evening palpitations.

“My sleep has never been better, and I feel more focused throughout the day.

“We pride ourselves on leading the way in care improvement. Participating in studies like this allows us to innovate and explore new ways to enhance the lives of our residents.

“The results of this caffeine-free trial speak for themselves, and we’re excited to continue championing initiatives like this.

“We’ve been able to reduce the need for one to one support while increasing the quality of care. This has been life-changing for both residents and our team.”