A resident at Paisley Lodge Care Home has recently been reunited with a lifelong passion, thanks to a special visit to Leeds United’s iconic Elland Road stadium – a place he hadn’t seen in more than three decades.
Bernard has supported Leeds United since the age of 10. During a recent reminiscence session at the home, he revealed that his last trip to Elland Road was back in the 1980s and spoke about how much he longed to go back. Inspired by his story, the care team set about turning his wish into reality.
With the help of Bernard’s daughter Caroline and son-in-law Alan, staff at Paisley Lodge arranged an exclusive tour of the stadium. Bernard, along with Caroline, Alan and members of the care team, explored behind the scenes at Elland Road – from the players’ changing rooms and the dugout, where so many legends have sat, to the unforgettable moment of standing pitch-side once again.
During the visit, Bernard was surprised with a special Leeds United scarf to keep – a limited item given only to super fans on selected matchdays. The scarf had originally been produced for a game against Norwich City a couple of seasons ago, making it an extra meaningful memento of his day.
Elizabeth Garbutt, Activities Coordinator said:
“I felt such pride seeing Bernard back on his home team’s turf. Part of our ethos is to reconnect residents with activities, hobbies, and passions they may have lost over the years – or might not have had the chance to enjoy since their dementia diagnosis, so they can live fulfilling lives. This was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect Bernard with something that has meant so much to him throughout his entire life.”
Caroline, Bernard’s daughter added:
“It was an emotional day for all of us. Seeing my dad back at Elland Road meant a lot to him, and it was a great experience for our family, one we’ll never forget.”
Paisley Lodge Care Home, located in Hopton Mews, Armley, Leeds, provides specialist support for people living with complex dementia through its dedicated Reconnect communities. These communities are designed to feel like a true home-away-from-home, helping residents to live as independently and meaningfully as possible.
The trip to Elland Road is a shining example of Paisley Lodge’s person-centred approach, ensuring residents can continue to enjoy the hobbies, memories and experiences that matter most to them. The home is rated ‘good’ by the Care Quality Commission and is fully dedicated to specialist dementia care, including support for those living with vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia.
For more information about the Paisley Lodge Care Home, please visit www.orchardcarehomes.com
