Fortune cookies helping elderly with dementia

FORTUNE cookies are having a therapeutic effect on those living with dementia in the North East.

Residents at Pelton Grange Care Home, in Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, have been making the popular takeaway biscuits in celebration of the Chinese New Year.

The home’s cooking enthusiasts took over the kitchen to create the cookies using a traditional recipe – before inserting their own handwritten fortunes.

Using their culinary skills has proven beneficial for those with dementia, according to home manager Chris Hogan-Hind.

He said: “We are always looking for activities to get the residents using familiar skills, especially for those living with dementia, as it has a very positive effect on their mood and wellbeing.

“Many of the residents used to cook for their families and friends, so the Chinese New Year was a good opportunity to get them involved in preparing a meal for fellow residents.

“They thoroughly enjoyed making the fortune cookies and testing their culinary skills.”

Resident Brenda Clifford said: “It was the best day in a long time, and I enjoyed watching the mixer going round and round.

“It was nice to go in the kitchen and see where our food comes from. I couldn’t believe the size.”

As well as learning the making fortune cookies, residents were treated to a dinner of chicken curry with rice and noodles, prawn crackers, spring rolls and prawn wraps.

Resident Lillian Ford added: “The meal was delicious. I can remember having a takeaway with my husband and the smell coming from the dining room was like being in a proper Chinese restaurant.”