Edinburgh care home residents share career advice with local youngsters

Residents at a care home in Edinburgh have been passing on their career advice to the next generation.

Care UK’s Cairdean House, on Redford Road Road, welcomed pupils from Colinton Primary School into the home for a special careers focused session.

Working in many different roles and sectors, from short-hand journalists to shoe fitters, residents were keen to share their expert advice and tips for a long and successful career. Youngsters also got chatting to residents about their interests and what they want to be when they grow up.

 

85-year-old Margaret Maxwell, resident from Cairdean House, said: “I loved my time working in Clarks as a shoe fitter for children, and remember them running to their mummies to show off their new shoes. Being around the children brought back happy memories for me and I told them it’s important to find a job that makes you smile.”

88-year-old Dianne Warner, another resident from Cairdean House, added: “I enjoyed speaking to the children and finding out more about the jobs they wanted to do – it brought back memories from my time working in a school office.”

Leona Thomson, Customer Relations Manager at Cairdean House, added: “Intergenerational activities are a huge part of life here at Cairdean House, and it was fantastic to be joined by schoolchildren to discuss the career advice that residents had to share from their own experiences.

"Intergenerational relationships can be incredibly fulfilling, as they give younger and older generations a chance to learn from one another. These connections can be especially helpful for older people as they can provide a sense of purpose and spark discussions about their lives. 

"We'd like to say a huge thanks to pupils from Colinton Primary School for coming along and participating – we look forward to welcoming everyone into the home again very soon."

Cairdean House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, as well as short-term respite.