CARE home residents with dementia have been given their own traditional 'pub', in a bid to improve their mood, stimulate them and encourage social activities.

The Dennistoun Arms in Glasgow's East End is part of Golfhill Care Home, and although it is not a licensed premises, it is set up like a traditional East End bar, complete with TV, bar stools sports memorabilia and a bell for ringing last orders.

The bar has a therapeutic purpose, and aims to provide a recognisable social environment in which residents can relive the past and share memories and stories over a drink.

Nancyanne Smith, Home Manager at the Bupa-run care home, said: “We had the space and it felt like a natural thing to make it into an environment where everyone can socialise, as they would have done in the old days. We’re also lucky to have the outdoor patio as it makes an ideal beer garden and is a huge sun trap in the summer months.

Research has claimed benefits of helping people with dementia to channel and focus on positive memories from their lives.

Ms Smith added: “Our male residents have created a men’s group where they play cards and dominoes together, and the women enjoy the garden space and listening to their favourite music on the jukebox.

“This concept improves the living experience for residents by providing extra cognitive stimulation which improves their mood and general sense of wellbeing."