HALLOWEEN is approaching and care homes are preparing themed activities for residents to enjoy.
During this time, Care UK is highlighting the joy that pumpkin-carving can bring, particularly for those living with dementia.
Around Halloween, most people enjoy carving pumpkins, but for those living with dementia it’s about more than carving the most creative design. We know that partaking in activities that stimulate the senses is a great way to encourage reminiscence and the sharing of stories, allowing those living with dementia to relive special moments from their past.
Many residents have fond memories of carving pumpkins with their loved ones, from being children themselves, to carving and celebrating Halloween with their own loved ones throughout the years.
Suzanne Mumford QN, head of nursing, care and dementia at Care UK, said: “The Autumn is a great time for reminiscence, especially as autumn colours are particularly comforting as we age.
“Pumpkin carving has become a more recent feature of Halloween and affords everyone the opportunity of creating ghoulish or smiling faces which are ultimately lit up as it gets dark. These types of creative, sensory, and reminiscence activities can be very beneficial for people living with dementia.”