Hospital pub real tonic for dementia patients
PATIENTS with dementia are enjoying drinks at their very own pub – on a hospital ward.
Staff hope the atmosphere at The Jolly Villa will help sufferers by reviving memories and encouraging lively conversation.
The “traditional boozer” for older adults is on Cornwall Villa ward at Chase Farm Hospital in Enfi eld, north London.
Ward manager Mounir Benbassou said: “We believe it will have real benefi ts for the people we care for.
“Keeping people engaged has been known to bring about memories, help foster emotional connections with others and encourage self- expression. This is exactly the kind of behaviour we want to promote.
“We’ve talked to our patients’ loved ones and they have been really keen on the idea and hope it will trigger fond memories of pub lunches and summer evenings enjoying drinks.”
He added: “We hope the pub will create another opportunity for families to visit their relatives. This would also give them the opportunity to engage with staff more.”
Cornwall Villa ward has 23 beds and a staff of more than 30, including nurses, healthcare assistants and occupational therapists.
The pub’s activities will include playing cards, dominoes, music and dancing.
There is one drawback for those who enjoy a tipple though. It will serve only non- alcoholic beers and wines.