Home takes a trip down memory lane (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Home takes a trip down memory lane

10:16am Thursday 10th August 2006 in Chippenham By Gazette Reporter

RESIDENTS at a Chippenham nursing home will be taking a trip down memory lane as part of a special history project.

Avon Court Nursing and Residential Home off Rowden Hill is one of 36 care homes across the UK chosen to participate in a living history scheme.

Now the home is calling on history enthusiasts to get involved and help residents reminisce and develop nostalgic features based on their own experiences.

The project is intended to help residents incorporate their memories in a lasting feature at their home, including memorabilia and themed murals from days gone by.

BUPA, which runs the home, is working with reminiscence charity Age Exchange for the second year in succession.

Bernie Arigho, director of research and development, said: "The project aims to provide intellectual and social stimulation by encouraging residents to remember and discuss shared or individual experiences.

"Last year we created reminiscence features at 30 care homes across the country. We hope people will be as eager to get involved this year."

Age Exchange is internationally recognised for its work in all fields of reminiscence.

The charity aims to improve people's quality of life by emphasising their memories through visual and performance arts activities, intergenerational projects, exhibitions, publications and documentary film.

Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact (01249) 660055.