Residents at an extra care scheme in West London are enjoying reliving their youth thanks to a new retro-style jukebox.
Penford Court is home to 51 people aged 55 and over, and includes provision for any residents suffering with dementia, several of whom live at the scheme.
The jukebox occupies a prime position in the lounge at Penfold Court and was a gift from British Land as a thank you for Dementia Friends training they received from scheme staff.
Florentina Kasabaqi, extra care manager at Penfold Court, said: “The residents are well known in the local community, including shops and local businesses. Because several of the residents here have dementia, we decided to run Dementia Friends sessions for anyone wanting to know more about what living with dementia means.
“After several staff from British Land attended the sessions, they asked if I would train more of their staff and how much I would charge. I explained that I would not charge anything, but that instead they could donate something to our dementia unit. I had seen a jukebox at another specialist dementia service and it looked something that our customers could benefit from as well. British Land were happy to buy one for us.
“When the jukebox arrived, the customers remembered what it was straight away and were very excited. It has lights that change colour, which is very good for visual stimulation. It also has a CD player that looks like a record turntable, as well as an old-style radio with the dial at the front, all the old channels and a bar that goes across.”
The jukebox is in constant use and boasts classic songs dating back to when the residents were younger that the residents often get up and dance to.
One resident, David (pictured), who also has dementia said: “It reminds me of when I was younger going to the pubs and cafés”.
Florentina continued, “I cannot thank British Land enough for their kindness. I know that the jukebox will provide many hours of entertainment and happy reflection for years to come.”