Activities at Pentland View Care Home

Pentland View care home in Thurso was transformed into Blue Hawaii to mark what would have been Elvis Presley’s 89th birthday on 8 January. It is estimated that Elvis has sold over one billion records worldwide so to honour the undisputed King of Rock & Roll, the staff and residents enjoyed a fantastic day of music, fun and dancing.

Activities Coordinator, Jeanine Sinclair, said: “Music is such an incredible way to connect with each other, and Elvis has played a very big part in many of our residents’ lives. From a resident who we learnt wore a locket with Elvis’ photo in it in her youth, to one who currently has an Elvis blanket on her bed and listens to his music daily, residents have many happy memories attached to Elvis’ music and films.”

All over the country our care homes and hospitals linked up for Barchester’s Big Quiz of the year!

Residents tested their knowledge with a variety of questions, from historical humdingers and musical musings to pictorial puzzlers and connective conundrums.

Everyone who participated had a fantastic time and enjoyed some friendly competition.

We have had a variety of musical performances in to visit over the festive period as we are fortunate enough to have a great many talented local musicians. Residents enjoyed traditional and holiday tunes from The Caithness Bell Ringers, the Tutti Choir, a local fiddle group, and from a resident-favourite, Addie Harper. Addie even took the merriment to a  resident’s room as she was unable to attend in the lounge. Many of our residents have enjoyed Addie’s music for years and it means an lot to them that he comes in regularly to play.

Amongst many festive activities this month, residents greatly enjoyed an afternoon of holiday films. Reay and Mey watched Elf and played a board game based on the film and residents in Stroma enjoyed watching Home Alone. With the Christmas trees twinkling and the lights dimmed in the main lounge, it was very festive and cosy. Elf hats and twinkle lights were at the ready and smiles were on everyone’s faces. Everyone was singing along to the familiar Christmas songs in the films. There was even a request for White Christmas, which we are going to finish watching on Christmas Day.

“He’s behind you!” Residents, family, friends and staff all enjoyed another visit from Theatre Presto performing their Cinderella pantomime at the start of the month. It was such a lovely way to start off the festive season! From the youngest audience member, to the oldest, a good time was had by all. We even had a few would-be Cinders try on the slipper. The show was fully interactive and festive fun was had by all.

Across our homes we got into the Christmas spirit of things by joining a festive live virtual experience, led by Des and Kelly from Performing Pets.

Our residents were thrilled to meet the charming furry friends and get up close and personal with the reindeers.

We certainly learnt some interesting facts about the animals and had a fantastic time.