The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Lively Yvonne is care home’s dancing queen
Elvis classic Hound Dog is perfect tonic for rock ‘n’ roll-loving resident
They say you’re only as old as you feel – and a rock ‘n’ roll-loving resident of a Perthshire care home clearly does not feel a day older than when she was a young woman dancing along to the music of the ’60s.
Balhousie Care Group shared the heart-warming video of resident Yvonne dancing to the Elvis Presley classic Hound Dog, and it instantly put a spring in the step of the thousands of people who have watched it.
The video shows the octogenarian hotstepping in the lounge at the Dalnaglar home in Crieff, before she is joined by senior care assistant Ross Balmer for a good old-fashioned ’60s jive.
Ross said: “We’ve just recently got a new speaker in the lounge and every day it’s been on and it’s been fantastic.
“Yvonne absolutely loves it – it definitely takes her back to her youth.”
The 21-year-old, who has worked at Dalnaglar for around 18 months, said a number of the residents like to dance or just enjoy listening to music from their younger days. He says he’s always happy to join in with the dancing and is even picking up some moves to show off in the nightclubs when he is off-duty.
Care home manager Pamela McAllister said the video is typical of the kind of care Dalnaglar aims to provide.
She said: “It’s all about keeping people moving, showing their interests and it shows how good a relationship we have between staff and residents.”
Pamela also praised Ross for his efforts to ensure the residents have as much fun and enjoyment as possible.
She said: “Ross is just really good with the residents. He’s got a great relationship with them. He’s really caring and really laid back.”
Pamela also explained that music plays a significant role in the care of residents, many of whom have dementia.
She said: “Music is very important. It can be used for all aspects – if someone’s upset or distressed you can play music and it can help them relax. It can also trigger conversations that are so important in keeping people alert and happy.”
The video has been widely praised on the company’s Facebook page, where it has been watched thousands of times.
Corinne Hands posted: “That’s really heartwarming to see that. Obviously something she has enjoyed in the past and the carer is making it special for her. Person centred care at its best.”
Ann Robertson added: “Brilliant. That’s how a care home should be, a fun place.”