History group visit care home and trigger reminiscence in older residents

A team of historians have provided a stimulating history workshop aimed at promoting reminiscence in older residents at The Gables care home.

During the event residents learned about the history of Early Television, Post War Britain and the Cambridge spies, Burgess and Maclean. Many residents actively participated in the event, telling stories and reminiscing about their past experiences during the discussion.

The session was organised by national self-help organisation The University of The Third Age (U3A), a group who work to provide opportunities for retired and semi-retired people in and around Middlesbrough.

Naaila Rehman, activities co-ordinator at The Gables, said: “We contacted the U3A group as part of our ongoing work to involve residents in activities that are organised outside the home. This enables us to develop strong links with the community and provides our residents with a further sense of belonging.

“All of the residents at the home found the session led by the history group incredibly interesting and enjoyed discussing their memories of the early television and their post-war experiences.”

U3A allow people to learn new skills and hear about interesting topics for enjoyment, rather than to gain any formal qualifications.

The session held at the Gable was led and organised by U3A member Stephen Palczynski as part of a drive by the home to outreach to groups and individuals within the local community.

She continued: “Events such as this allow our residents to actively discuss their past, keeping their memory active and providing a platform for discussion and engagement.

“We were delighted with the session and hope that U3A will visit the home to host other activities in the future.”

The Gables is part of Hill Care group which was established in 2001 and now owns 21 care homes.