Edenmore Nursing
Home in Ilfracombe, North Devon, recently held a birthday celebration for one
of its newest family members (the home’s fond term for residents), bringing
people together for an afternoon filled with nostalgic music, dancing, and
homemade cake.
Helen, described
by her daughter as ‘a really fun lady with a wonderful sense of humour’, has
been living at the North Devon Nursing home since December 2025, having moved
into the home following a hospital stay for a period of respite. To mark her 73rd
birthday, the team arranged a celebration in the lounge. Helen wore a sparkly
birthday badge, and everyone sang Happy Birthday as the team presented her with
a homemade cake!
Music from across
the decades set the tone for the afternoon. Songs such as Country Roads and
Let’s Twist Again prompted smiles, singing and movement, with some family
members choosing to dance together in the lounge while others joined in from
their chairs, clapping or singing along.
The celebration
reflected Edenmore’s approach to everyday life in the home, where people are
supported to choose to take part in the ways which feel right for them, whether
that’s being at the centre of the action or enjoying the atmosphere from a
quieter area of the room.
Helen, who has a
real fondness for singing, shared about the day, ‘It was one of the best days I
have had in a long time!’
Home Manager Gayle shared, ‘For us, it doesn’t matter if you’re living in our home for a few weeks as you get back on your feet or moving in longer-term. For the time you are with us, we want you to feel at home, and we will make a fuss about special occasions like birthdays because that’s what makes each person feel loved and cared for.’
