When it comes to remembering the good times, dementia has a way of stealing even the smallest moments.
But, thanks to an innovative project at Arlington House Care Home in Hove, residents are getting an opportunity to recall memories and activities – in their own pub.
Built voluntarily by carers, sponsors and relatives, The Tennis Arms officially opened last weeked and replicates an old-fashioned ‘local’, giving residents an opportunity to buy a few drinks, order some food and enjoy socialising.
It is believed it is the first-ever pub of its kind and was an idea first mooted by Natasha Clarke, manager of the home who recognised that the client group was becoming younger – with admissions as young as 49 with a diagnosis of advanced dementia.
“I wanted to create a familiar place for people who live at the home, and when I brought up the idea of recreating a pub, everyone was positive about it,” she said.
But, with virtually no money she thought it would be an impossible feat.
However, six weeks after the idea was first suggested, the pub is open.
The Tennis Arms is housed within the old dining room in the home, which had become too small for residents to use regularly.
Although there isn’t a licence to sell alcohol, the pub will be open daily from 11am-11pm and the bar menu allows residents to order food that is cooked by kitchen staff and served to them in the pub. They will also be able to order soft drinks.
“Residents are able to pay for what they order with their own change, although this money will be put back into their own petty cash each day to re-use,” said. This process promotes independence and wellbeing,’ said Clarke.
The Tennis Arms will also be open to the residents of other, similar, homes in the area who will be invited to come along for lunch outings as part of a social inclusion programme.
Clarke said: “Pubs have many memories for many people and recreating the atmosphere and feel of one is a positive thing for our residents and hopefully many visitors we are hoping to welcome in the future.”