By CATIE HILL

IN the last week of November, just the mention of Christmas brought back memories and routine for the residents of the memory support wing at GraniteHill.

The excitement was palpable as the residents eagerly got to work, decorating the unit and creating a festive atmosphere that made it feel like Christmas had already arrived.

Residents took the lead in the decorating, and staff captured the joyful moments on camera and shared the photos with families and friends through the CareApp, giving them a glimpse of the busy preparations.

Staff member Betty Broughton said: “Last week's activities have been exactly what the residents would have done their family homes for years, and it's wonderful assisting them to decorate their new home with us.

"Many staff members commented that it felt like their own grandparents' home,” she said.

Of course, no Christmas tree is truly complete without presents beneath it, so the residents made sure to add those, creating a perfect scene.

And nothing says Christmas quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked homemade shortbread filling the air.