The royal treatment – Edinburgh care home residents celebrate the Platinum Jubilee in style

Residents at three care homes in Edinburgh have been enjoying Platinum Jubilee celebrations fit for a queen. 

Care UK’s Lauder Lodge, Murrayside and Cairdean House have marked the Queen’s official 70-year milestone with quintessentially British garden parties. 

Lauder Lodge welcomed singer, Sarah Lang, to perform, Murrayside enjoyed a very royal arts and crafts session, where residents designed their own stamp before sitting down for afternoon tea, and those at Cairdean House enjoyed a street party with picnic style food.

Residents have also spent time reminiscing about their own memories of jubilee celebrations gone by, including 97-year-old Alice McDonald from Lauder Lodge, who once attended one of the royal garden parties with her sister Isobel, who also lives at the home. 

Alice said: “I was over the moon when I was invited! I couldn’t believe it and wondered if they’d sent the invite to the right person. I have always been very fond of the Queen and feel so fortunate to have seen her in person.”

92-year-old Helena Evitt, from Cairdean House also shared her memories of meeting the Queen at James VI of Scotland’s coronation in Holyrood: “We all stood in a circle and curtsied. She was so lovely on that day. The country is very proud of all she has achieved.” 

Suzanne Welsh, Home Manager at Murrayside, added: “We had a great time celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee here at Murrayside. 

“Creative activities form a huge part of life at the home, as they can offer an alternative way for residents to express themselves, which can be incredibly beneficial for older people – especially those living with dementia. Themed activities like these can also help to prompt positive memories of previous celebrations and the associated emotions, which can be fantastic for decreasing stress and improving mood. 

Anees Riaz, Home Manager at Lauder Lodge, concluded: “Everyone had a fantastic time discussing their favourite royal moments throughout history at Lauder Lodge as we enjoyed a royal knees-up in the garden. We sang, we danced, and enjoyed our special ice cream treat, and we are already planning our next garden party!”

To find out more about Care UK’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, please visit: careuk.com/platinumjubilee.

Lauder Lodge, Murrayside and Cairdean House have been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The homes provide full-time residential, residential dementia and nursing care, as well as short-term respite.

To find out more, visit careuk.com/edinburgh.