Lives remembered: Telling the stories of older people

The anthology was produced by the University as part of an undergraduate nursing module called ‘Understanding the experiences of older people through storytelling’, run by its Department of Health Sciences.

The book highlights the memories of the care home’s residents gathered by the student nurses during visits to Stamford Bridge Beaumont. It also represents an important innovative collaboration between the care home and University. The joint project is having a positive impact on trainee nurses and the residents they care for, as well as staff at the home which is run by Barchester Healthcare.

The home’s general manager, Sue Cartwright, said: “The Lives Remembered Project has been a fantastic opportunity for our residents to share their stories and be part of an innovative approach to nurse training. It’s also a great fit with Barchester’s person-centred care approach, which makes sure our staff know and respect the people they care for through reminiscence activities.”
 

Ros Brownlow, module leader, added: “Inspiring the nurses’ creativity also appears to promote their humanity and compassion. The module helps bridge the gap between young and old, as it provides an insight into the lives of older people and helps the nurses to empathise with them.”

The module is delivered by the Department of Health Sciences and the Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of York. Its development was funded by The Higher Education Academy HEALTH Network Group and BUPA Charitable Giving Fund. Its success relies on the ongoing support of residents, families and staff of Barchester Healthcare and BUPA care homes.