A resident at Willow Bank House Care Home has been sharing memories from her rich and colourful life as part of a dementia-friendly life story activity.
Margaret, affectionately known as Lizzie, has been taking part in the home’s Forever Young Campaign, which celebrates the lives, stories and identities of residents beyond their care needs.
The activity was created to help spark memories, conversation and connection in a meaningful way. With support from Lizzie’s family, the Willow Bank team brought together details from her life, including her family history, favourite interests, photos, likes, dislikes and memories from years gone by.
Lizzie, who was born and raised in Handsworth, Birmingham, has always had a great love of history, particularly King Henry VIII and the Tudor dynasty. Her interest in the past also led her to trace her own family ancestry back to the 17th century, something that brought her great pride and joy.
During her adult life, Lizzie married her husband John, and together they welcomed two daughters, Sarah and Rebecca. She devoted much of her life to raising her family, later working as a nursery nurse, where her nurturing nature and love of children shone through.
Family remains central to Lizzie’s life. She is the youngest of five siblings and now has nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, including step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. Her family continue to play an important role in her wellbeing and are regular sources of comfort, love and connection.
The life story activity also uncovered some wonderful photographs of Lizzie modelling in the 1980s, capturing her natural beauty and confidence. The images sparked conversation and gave staff a chance to see another part of Lizzie’s story.
Paul Chambers, Dementia and Wellbeing Lead at Willow Bank House, said Lizzie responds especially well when she feels relaxed and comfortable.
He said: “Lizzie enjoys talking and, in the right environment, she really opens up. This has also been supported through her involvement in our first Cognitive Stimulation Therapy group, where she became very engaged and shared more of herself with the group.”
Lizzie also has a deep love of music and singing. The team say she particularly enjoys live music sessions at the home and often comes out of her shell when familiar songs are played.
Paul added: “Lizzie thrives with music and enjoys singing with the entertainers who visit on a regular basis. Her confidence grows throughout the session, especially when songs like ‘We’ll Meet Again’ are sung.”
Jackie, Activities Co-ordinator at Willow Bank House, said: “Lizzie is an exceptional singer and artist, especially when painting flowers. It is lovely to see her fulfilling those dreams in the home.”
The activity is part of Willow Bank House’s wider commitment to personalised dementia care, helping residents feel seen, heard and valued as individuals.
A spokesperson for Willow Bank House said: “Life story work is so important for people living with dementia. It helps us understand the person behind the diagnosis – their family, their passions, their memories and the moments that have shaped them.
“For Lizzie, this activity has created opportunities for conversation, confidence and connection. It reminds us that every resident has lived a full and meaningful life before moving into care, and those stories should continue to be celebrated.”
Willow Bank House is part of Buckland Care and provides residential and dementia care in Throckmorton, near Pershore.