A hospital day room has been completely transformed into a 1950s sitting room to help patients with dementia at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

A retro tv, clock, mirror, wireless, sideboard and other furniture from the era when Elvis and Cliff ruled the pop charts have taken the room back to a time that will help patients relax and reminisce.

The £12,000 transformation was the idea of staff who have set about fundraising and been helped by a £10,000 donation from David Mackie from Norfolk’s Ivy Child Trust.

Welcoming Fifties style turquoise wallpaper that meets strict infection control guidelines is topped with a mock picture rail. Three birds fly on a wall in formation and a pin board shows Norfolk photos from the era,  there is even an effect that looks like a real fire. The room also has books, football programmes, catalogues  and leaflets  from the era as well as games like draughts, dominoes the Beetle game and the Amazing Robot.

A dvd player means patients can watch old news reels and historic events from when Princess Elizabeth became Queen, Churchill was Prime Minister, James Dean died and Lego bricks were invented.

Vintage cups and saucers for tea parties  complete the look to help stimulate conversations with patients in their 80s and 90s.
As most of the patients are in their nineties the hope is that those with dementia will feel that the room looks familiar and will help spark memories and conversations. It will also provide a relaxing place for relatives to talk to staff or patients.

The project was supervised and designed by Hospital Art’s Co-ordinator Emma Jarvis who said, ‘ We really wanted to create a 1950’s feel to the room but had to ensure it met all the correct regulations and was able to provide up to date facilities with the look of the 1950’s. I am so glad that all the hard work has paid off and that our patients will get joy from being in this dayroom’.

Deputy Sister Julie Payne who started the fundraising said “For patients with dementia familiarity makes their stay better.  The patients love it. It’s the only room like it in the hospital and we’re so proud of it.”

Louise Cook Fundraising Manager said, “This is just one of a number of dementia projects which require charitable funding across the hospital. The more we can help fund projects which can support and provide a relaxed environment the better it is for our patients. We are incredibly grateful to our staff and all those who have fundraised for this project to take place’

www.nnuh.nhs.uk