Residents at Bryn Ivor Lodge mark the King of Rock ’n’ Roll’s 90th birthday with music, memories and dancing
RESIDENTS and staff at Bryn Ivor Lodge care home in Castleton were all shook up last week as the home was transformed into Graceland to celebrate what would have been Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday.
The Cardiff care home marked the occasion on January 8 with a day packed full of music, memories and dancing, paying tribute to the undisputed King of Rock ’n’ Roll, who is estimated to have sold more than one billion records worldwide.
Elvis classics filled the air as residents enjoyed learning more about the star’s early life, the influences behind his music, and watching old films featuring the rock ’n’ roll icon. The celebrations also included an Elvis-themed quiz, which proved just how many of his hits remain firmly lodged in people’s memories.
General Manager Liliana Ungureanu said the day had been a huge success.
“Lots of our residents are big Elvis fans and love his music,” she said. “We’ve had a fantastic day listening to all his hits, finding out about his early life and what influenced him, and watching old Elvis movies. He was such an incredible talent. This afternoon we had an Elvis quiz, and it’s amazing how many songs he recorded – we all surprised ourselves by how many we remembered.”
Residents were equally enthusiastic about the event, with one saying the celebration brought back treasured memories.
“I loved Elvis growing up,” they said. “Listening to all his old hits has brought back so many memories. We’ve all had a brilliant time reminiscing about our dance hall days.”
Bryn Ivor Lodge is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers. The home provides nursing care, residential care, respite care and dementia care, and regularly hosts themed events to support residents’ wellbeing and encourage social interaction.
The Elvis celebration proved that, even 90 years on, the King’s music still has the power to get people dancing.
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