And one 103-year-old woman simply advised people to stay single. Razvan Stanbeca, manager of Care UK’s Colne View in Halstead, said writing the advice helped residents to reminisce, which is particularly beneficial for those living with dementia. The pensioners, with the help of staff, wrote their advice on boards to share with others during a session at the home. One told of the importance of patience, another said you should never go to sleep on an argument, and 103-year-old Margaret Warburton wrote: “Stay single.” Ms Warburton, who never married, told staff that her reason for staying single was so she could focus on herself and “be number one”.
Doreen enjoys the fun at Mountfitchet House, Stansted
- Credit: Mountfitchet House / Care UK
Residents at a Stansted care home had a virtual visit from BBC food historian Dr Polly Russell, for a trip down memory lane.
Mountfitchet House on Coltsfield also had an afternoon tea of sandwiches, Victoria sponge and pastries prepared by chef Aidan Kelly while Dr Polly took them through each treat and it’s history and encouraged them to share memories of their younger days.
Dr Russell said: “There really is something incredibly special about the way food can evoke memories and emotions. Just one flavour or smell can prompt a different memory and emotion for each individual, which is why a session like this can be so powerful.”