Residents at The Firs Residential Home in Budleigh Salterton enjoyed an afternoon of shared memories and storytelling, thanks to a special reminiscence session supported by Budleigh Salterton Library.
The home was filled with conversation and smiles as residents explored a collection of flashcards, memorabilia and beautifully illustrated books, all designed to spark memories and encourage connection.
The reminiscence pack, kindly loaned by the local library, provided a simple but powerful way for residents to reflect on their past, with familiar images and objects prompting stories, laughter and moments of recognition.
A member of the team at The Firs said:
“It was such a lovely afternoon. The reminiscence materials really got everyone talking – you could see memories coming back and being shared with each other. It’s those moments of connection that mean so much.”
“It was such a lovely afternoon. The reminiscence materials really got everyone talking – you could see memories coming back and being shared with each other. It’s those moments of connection that mean so much.”
The highlight of the afternoon came when resident Diana shared a personal memoir she had written, describing the day her father returned home from war.
Her words brought the room to a standstill, as residents and staff listened to her story — a deeply moving reflection filled with emotion, history and love.
Reminiscence activities are a regular part of life at The Firs, particularly for residents living with dementia, helping to support memory, communication and emotional wellbeing.
The afternoon was a gentle reminder that sometimes the most meaningful moments come from looking back — and sharing those memories with others.