This week at Timken Grange we had some wonderful and meaningful one to one session where we focused on reminiscence.

One resident had spoken about how she enjoyed baking and preparing food for her family throughout the year she commented “Every Boxing day I would do a big spread for everyone, we had everything you could think of pies, pickles, homemade sausage rolls, cakes and biscuits”.

Our Lifestyle Co-ordinator Rochelle suggested she spent time with our resident choosing something to bake. Between them they looked over recipe books and both decided to make gingerbread men. Working together they measured and mixed the ingredients to create a dough, which were then rolled out and cut into gingerbread men.

The finished results filled the tearoom with a delicious smell and of course several team members were on hand to taste test the finish product quoting “These are delicious, well done you did a great job”.

Another one to one that focused on reminiscence this week was Gwen who showed lifestyle member Michelle one of her photo albums, it included an array of photos from Gwen’s life including her childhood, family holidays and her own children’s early years, Gwen was able to tell the story behind each photo. Whilst talking about holiday photos Gwen commented “Me and my husband were lucky enough to travel quite a bit, I enjoyed going to the beach on holiday”. Gwen and Michelle also discussed the various outfits that Gwen wore “I loved wearing beautiful dresses and always tried my best to look put together” Gwen said. These memories that had been captured bought a smile to Gwen’s face as she talked fondly of each moment.

Reminiscence is an important activity, story telling about events, people and places can help individuals feel less isolated. It exercises the brain and communication skills and makes our resident feel valued and heard. Some memories can spark joy and happiness and can lead to wider conversations which helps build rapport and relationships. Discussing shared experiences helps people feel understood and connected.

Timken Grange, where residents and staff have started receiving their second dose of the COVID19 vaccination, are currently welcoming new residents, to book your tour or for more information please contact 01604 594310 or email info@halcyoncarehomes.co.uk.