St Ives care home residents take journey into Christmas past

Old festive traditions have come to life at a care home in St Ives, as residents explored Christmas customs from years gone by.

Residents at Care UK’s Field Lodge, on London Road, enjoyed a nostalgic afternoon inspired by Christmases past, sharing memories of childhood celebrations and family traditions.

The Norris Museum visited the home to lead a special reminiscence activity, inviting residents to handle and discuss festive collectibles such as vintage cards, bells, books, and songbooks, while learning about the origins of familiar customs. The session also explored historical events like the “Big Freeze” and uncovered fun facts, including that postmen were once affectionately nicknamed Robins.

Resident, Liz Palmer reflected on her German heritage, saying: “Having been born in Germany, our Christmas culture is very different from that of the UK. In most countries, people don’t celebrate Christmas until 25th December, but in Germany, Christmas Eve is our main day of celebration. We open gifts and eat fish instead of turkey. 

“In the UK, wreaths are hung on doors, but in Germany, we put a wreath on the table with four candles as a centrepiece, and that remains on the table throughout Christmas."

Fellow resident David Heading added: “The history of mistletoe was interesting. Kissing under the mistletoe is the best tradition.””

The event formed part of Care UK’s ‘Step into Christmas’ initiative, which aims to revive residents’ cherished festive customs and spark conversation and reminiscence through seasonal activities.

Linda Martinez, Home Manager at Field Lodge, said: “Christmas is such a special time of year, and this activity allowed us to honour memories of the handmade cards many residents remember creating or exchanging with loved ones.

“It was truly heartwarming to watch residents reminisce, compare designs and share stories about the festive traditions that have shaped their lives.”

For further information on Step into Christmas, visit careuk.com/Step-into-Christmas.

Field Lodge is a modern, purpose-built care home providing full-time residential, nursing, and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the building has a choice of lounges and dining rooms, along with facilities such as a cinema room, pub and hair and beauty salon.