Our Newcastle care home activity coordinator, Richard Dobinson, has been sniffing out some interesting discussion topics for St Catherine’s residents.
As part of reminiscences sessions Richard uses some specially selected fragrances which are designed to provoke recollections and create talking points.
“We might use the pot which smells of strawberries and perhaps start a discussion about Wimbledon, or there’s one which smells like chimney smoke or a Christmas tree to stir other memories,” said Richard.
This week there will also be a showing of a new film, which Richard has sourced, depicting scenes from the 1920s and 30s which will no doubt remind residents of their childhood days and memories of their youth.
As well as sight and smell reminiscences there are, of course, regular sing-alongs and musical interludes to elicit other remembrances at St Catherine’s, and including a return visit by the singing duo, Jiva, this Thursday.