Care residents take nostalgic trip back in time

31 January 2022

      

Residents at a Keith care home took a step back in time as they enjoyed the sights and sounds of yesteryear.

Over two days, residents at Glenisla Care Home took a trip down memory lane, encountering vintage toys, household appliances and clothing from the Victorian era up to the 1970s, listening to the sounds of Jimmy Shand on a 1924 Gramophone and rediscovering classic British cars including a 1973 Hillman Sunseeker Avenger and a 1974 Vauxhall Victor.

Staff also wore costumes from the Victorian era and the 1950s and 60s to add to the sense of occasion.

The nostalgia trip was the idea of Glenisla activities coordinator Emily Clair whose mother and stepfather are keen collectors of antiques and vintage memorabilia.

Emily said: “My family have always collected antiques and my mum and stepdad still adorn their home with older and authentic, original items rather than modern items. In fact, they don't even have a modern TV, they have one from the 50's which can no longer receive a broadcast but they have set up to play old black and whites.

“All of the featured items were taken for their and my collections, including the 1924 Gramophone. We featured items from the late 1800’s right up to the 1970s. The residents loved it because it reminded them of their childhoods watching their parents and grandparents using kitchen utensils of the time.

“On our second day, we featured women’s fashion, including some stunning vintage dresses, complete with authentic accessories, and vintage toys from the Victorian era and the 1950s and 60s. My mum and stepdad also dropped by with some of their old beautiful cars, and the gentlemen especially loved seeing those. We also had old copies of Radio Times and TV Times which were quite fascinating, and funny to look through.

“We all had a great time. Nostalgia days are always great fun but they also play an important and meaningful part in our approach to care. Remembering the past creates fond memories for our residents, and helps stimulate mental activity and promote happiness and well-being.”