Virtual Train at Aberdeen Care Home

 
Staff at Renaissance Care's Jesmond Care Home in the Bridge of Don have created a train carriage-style seating area that uses a large-screen TV to replicate a window, with rolling landscapes that change with the season.

It reminds me of when I was younger and brings back fond memories of being on trains. My dad worked in the railways so we used to get tickets and would often go on train journeys with my mum, dad and sister to different places, which was really exciting.

Ann Mennie, 89

The virtual carriage includes wall lights, cabin numbers, and luggage shelves with old suitcases sourced from relatives and charity shops.
 
Jade McGowan, wellbeing lead manager at Jesmond, which provides care for up to 65 residents, said she was looking for inspiration to repurpose an empty space in a corridor in the home's dementia unit when she hit upon the idea of an interactive train ride to engage and stimulate residents.

“I thought having a seating area that felt like you were on a train would be great for residents as it would be interactive, could be used for distraction and engagement, and would give the residents a sense of purpose.
 
“Our main aim was to create an area that promoted socialisation and inclusion and so far, it’s having really positive outcomes.”
 
The idea was brought to life by László Gergely, who looks after Jesmond's maintenance and while the installation has yet to be officially named, Jade said: “Jesmond’s Jollys seems to be a favourite so far, but we are going to invite suggestions from our residents and their relatives and then put it to a vote.”

The interactive train ride has delighted residents such as Ann Mennie, 89, who moved into Jesmond in March.
 
“It’s such a good idea, it’s interesting, calming and feels so real,” said Ann. “It reminds me of when I was younger and brings back fond memories of being on trains. My dad worked in the railways so we used to get tickets and would often go on train journeys with my mum, dad and sister to different places, which was really exciting.”

There are plans to make the experience even more authentic with first-class head rest covers, a ticket office and an interactive “lost property wall”.
 
Jesmond Care Home has also teamed up with the local Men's Shed, whose members are making a bench for residents who are waiting to board.
 
Jade added: “It's lovely to see the residents interacting with the “journey”, enjoying high teas and just sitting enjoying the scenery. The relatives have loved seeing it, all giving great feedback.

 
“Importantly, it's also encouraging meaningful engagement, discussions and interactions. One of the biggest achievements is how it’s providing greater opportunity to create meaningful connection for a wider group of residents.”