REMINISCENCE MOMENT FOR CARE HOME RESIDENTS

Colleagues at Avalon have been honouring the memory of residents who have passed away with a ‘reminiscence moment’ to which they invited family, friends and current residents.

The event was billed as: “a moment to remember the residents that were part of our lives and now are part of our hearts.”

Lisa Priddice, activities co-ordinator at Avalon, said: “The residents we care for are all living with dementia, and inevitably they eventually come to the end of their lives.

“While we are caring for them we become very close to them and when they pass on we really miss them. It leaves a hole in our lives.

“We have therefore decided to invite family and friends of former residents to come to Avalon twice a year to remember those who have passed, so we can hold a short memorial service when we share a moment to remember their loved ones and memories we have at Avalon.”

At the summer reminiscence moment, family members and friends were welcomed with an opening service conducted by activities team member Lisandra Costa, and then relatives placed pre-prepared individual name plaques on a dedicated ‘reminiscence tree.’

Lisa Priddice said: “After the service we shared a sociable afternoon tea and spent some happy time together reminiscing over special and memorable times.

“In the morning before the service residents had helped prepare floral centre pieces and displays for the service.

“The residents’ input for all the events held at Avalon is really important because it contributes to their sense of wellbeing and self-esteem: we try and include them whilst preparing for any events around the home.”