Care home residents learn graffiti, Strictly dances and cooking in learning programme

Residents at Whitefield Lodge Care Home in Lennoxtown have been getting involved in the Four Seasons Health Care Group's Love Learning event, designed to expand their horizons with new hobbies and showcase their new talents.

The enthusiastic group have been learning new languages, taking singing and dancing classes, photography courses and even channelling their inner Banksy with spray-painting. 

Margaret Gimson (Image: Margaret Gimson)

Margaret Gimson, 74, has enjoyed having the opportunity to learn new things and has developed a passion for dancing.

She said: “I can’t say I was that keen on school when I was younger but I’ve loved learning lots of new things and feel really proud of myself.

"My favourite activity has been the dancing sessions; I reckon I’d give those professionals on Strictly a run for their money!”

Joseph Russell (Image: Joseph Russell)

Meanwhile, 86-year-old resident Joseph Russell feels he has learned so much, adding: “They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks but I’ve learnt so many new things this year.

"I can now speak a bit of Spanish and French, know how to keep fit by exercising in my chair and I even learnt how to make the best pizza in the world from a chef in Rome.”

Joseph Russell with team member Heather (Image: Joseph Russell with team member Heather)

The ‘Love Learning’ event is running in all Four Seasons care homes across the UK, and residents had 'graduation' ceremonies where they were presented with certificates and congratulated on their efforts. 

Care home manager Sarah Gray said: “Continuing to learn in older age has many benefits.

"As well as keeping our brains healthy, acquiring new knowledge gives a real sense of purpose and achievement.

"Our Magic Moments activities programme includes lots of opportunities to get involved, learn new things and above all have great fun together.”