A replica bus stop and bench installed in the grounds of Broughton House Veteran Care Village is helping to evoke positive feelings and memories for residents living with dementia.
Transport for Greater Manchester has donated the equipment to the Salford care home and it is proving an important asset.
The location of the bus stop and bench means that residents can enjoy the colourful flowers in the garden of Broughton House while they sit and chat.
Jane Green, director of care at Broughton House, said: “Replica bus stops being used in dementia care is not necessarily new, but it is a first for us.
“As our community of residents who live with dementia grows, it’s important that we have features which bring familiarity with their earlier lives.
“Research has shown that by creating a focal point which is universally-recognised – such as a bus stop – residents will be automatically drawn to it and take a seat. Care staff can engage them in conversation and help them to reminisce, and it provides a sense of familiarity that is calming.
“Residents who are anxious about needing to go home can use the bus stop to pass some time, evoke positive memories and have valuable social interactions with others. Even our residents who do not live with dementia are finding it purposeful and reassuring.
“We’re very grateful to TfGM for this generous gesture, and everyone is delighted with the result.”
Mark Robinson, TfGM’s section manager for property services, said: “It’s been a privilege to be able to donate a Bee Network bus stop to Broughton House, and in particular support their residents living with dementia. It’s fantastic to see the residents and staff of Broughton House enjoying it.”
Vernon Everitt, Greater Manchester Transport Commissioner, who attended the official unveiling of the bus stop, said: “It was wonderful to meet some of the residents plus Jane and her team at Broughton House and see their new Bee Network bus stop installed in the tranquil garden.
“It is clearly already providing a talking point for everyone and I’d like to thank the team at Transport for Greater Manchester for making it happen.
“We are working with the Alzheimer’s Society charity and transport operators across Greater Manchester to find further ways in which to support people living with dementia. This includes ensuring that all of our frontline staff receive high-quality dementia awareness training.”
Broughton House has cared for more than 8,000 veterans since it opened its doors to the ex-service community in 1916. It was recently redeveloped into a complex with a 64-bed care home, including two 16-bed households dedicated to veterans with dementia, as well as independent living apartments, an array of modern facilities, a museum, gym, hairdressing and barber’s salon, and a restaurant and bar for residents.
