Residents at a Broadstairs care home experienced a wave of joyful nostalgia this festive season, thanks to a special collaboration with the legendary British toy manufacturer, Corgi.
Personalised Presents Unlock the Past
The team at Copperfield Court care home in Broadstairs worked closely with Corgi to delve into residents' personal histories. The iconic firm, famous for its diecast vehicles since 1956, then provided bespoke miniature models of the cars, planes, and vehicles each individual had owned or admired in their youth.
As the carefully chosen gifts were unwrapped, residents were instantly transported back through the decades. The initiative was designed to trigger happy memories and provide a potent dose of festive cheer, allowing older adults to reconnect with vivid moments from their younger years.
The Powerful Impact of Nostalgia on Wellbeing
For those living with conditions like dementia, such tangible links to the past can have a profoundly positive effect. Professor Victoria Tischler, Professor of Behavioural Science at the University of Surrey, who observed the project, explained the significant benefits.
"Nostalgia can be really helpful because it connects us to the past, but also brings us into the present," she said. "It can elicit happy memories in a way that can be really positive for our mental health. Sharing memories also connects us to other people and helps create new stories and relationships."
The gifts distributed included classic models like London buses, the Aston Martin from James Bond films, and Spitfire aircraft, each chosen for its personal resonance.
Memories Take Flight for Delighted Residents
The emotional response from residents was immediate and powerful. Derek Bellingham, 90, was thrilled with his model Spitfire, recalling seeing them during the war years. "I can remember a lot about the Spitfire. That is really, really nice – beautiful," he said, also reminiscing about his mother's stories of airships over Dover.
Another resident, Christopher, 67, was delighted with a bright red London bus model. It reminded him of running through Sutton-at-Hone to catch the bus to work in London, and even jumping onto the back of moving buses as a youngster.
Christine Hodgson, 78, received a Superior Ambulance model, which instantly took her back to her days as a nursing assistant in Canterbury. "It was good – we all worked together. The good, old days. Those were the best days," she recalled fondly.
David Mather, Head of Marketing at Corgi, emphasised the significance of the gesture: "It was lovely to see how our diecast models can help unlock memories and lead to interesting discussions with residents."
This heartwarming festive project highlights the powerful role that nostalgia and thoughtfully personalised gifts can play in enhancing the lives of older adults in care settings, creating meaningful connections and joy during the holiday season and beyond.
