Thistle Court Care Home in Cwmbran recently went back in time with their residents (who are fondly referred to as ‘family members’) with an 80s themed afternoon. Music and props were distributed throughout the home, the family members were able to enjoy listening to their favourite songs from the decade and reminiscing on that period of their lives.
With inflatable instruments and lots of neon, family members were treated to a ‘Back to the 80s Bash’ with classic tunes and lots of social engagement. The team joined in with the dancing with family members and helped them to take photos of themselves with neon glasses and blow-up saxophones and guitars. Listening to music has many proven benefits for people living with a Dementia, including improving mood and decreasing agitation or anxiety. Music can also bring back feelings or evoke memories from a person’s past, which can help people living in a care home to bond with the team by sharing those stories and feelings with them.
This event was carried out throughout the houses within Thistle Court. In the home, there are “houses” and “streets”, terms the home uses in place of corridors or floor, as both words can have an institutional feel about them.
Thistle Court Care Home is based in Cwmbran, South Wales. The home’s approach to life recognises the values, beliefs and identity of each person. Each person that may need support is unique and by understanding one’s life history, one’s journey in life, by striving to be a true continuation of home, the team at Thistle Court Home create a place where everyone feels safe and never alone.
To find out more about Thistle Court Care Home visit: https://thistlecourtcarehome.com/