A resident at Armley’s Paisley Lodge Care Home recently had the chance of a lifetime to reconnect with his lifelong passion for Leeds United Football Club
Bernard enjoyed a special trip to the club’s iconic Elland Road stadium – a place he hadn’t visited in over 30 years.
Bernard has been a dedicated Leeds United fan since he was 10 years old. During a recent reminiscence session at the home, Bernard shared that his last visit to Elland Road was in the 1980s. When he mentioned how much he wished he could return to the stadium, the care team decided to make that dream a reality.
With the support of Bernard’s daughter Caroline and son-in-law Alan, the Paisley Lodge Care Home team arranged for an exclusive tour of Elland Road. Bernard, Caroline, Alan and the care team enjoyed a tour of the stadium, including the players’ changing rooms, the dugout, where many famous players have sat, and, of course, the chance to stand pitch-side.
During the visit, Bernard was presented with a special Leeds United scarf to keep, an item given only to super fans on certain matchdays. This particular scarf was from a game against Norwich City a couple of seasons ago.
“I felt such pride seeing Bernard back on his home team’s turf,” said Elizabeth Garbutt, Activities Coordinator.
“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, based in Hopton Mews, Armley, offers specialist support for people living with complex dementia needs through its Reconnect communities.
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