Touch Of Retro Comfort As Care Home Brings Back The 70s

A NEW 1970s-themed snug has been unveiled at an Edinburgh care home, aiming to help residents living with dementia reconnect with memories from their past.

The immersive room has been developed by Cramond Residence, a luxury care home which specialises in delivering bespoke support for older people living with dementia, with care tailored both in dedicated areas and throughout the wider home.

Drawing inspiration from Alzheimer Scotland guidance, the design team turned away from more common 1920s or 30s themes and instead embraced the domestic details of the 1970s – a decade that resonates deeply with many of the home’s residents.

The transformation was made possible thanks to the generous support of the family of former resident Mrs Mary (Rae) Morris, who donated £500 towards furnishing the space in tribute to their loved one.

Their hope was to help create an environment filled with comfort and familiarity, especially for those living with dementia.

With warm tones and classic memorabilia, the snug replicates the feel of a family sitting room from the period, aiming to trigger long-term memories associated with family life, parenting, and popular culture.

Ross Bijak, General Manager at Cramond Residence, said:
“Our approach to dementia care is built around the person, and the new 70s snug is a perfect example of how we’re thinking differently to make daily life more meaningful.

“The 1970s was a formative time for many of our residents – a period they remember clearly, when they were managing busy households, raising families and enjoying popular culture. We wanted to bring that era back to life with familiar sights, sounds and experiences.”

Key features of the snug include a working vintage record player, period-style furniture, retro sideboards and lighting, and a nostalgic TV unit that creates an immersive, home-from-home feel.

The space now serves not only as a relaxing retreat but also as a therapeutic hub where residents can reminisce, share stories, and engage in memory-boosting activities guided by the care team.

Ross added: “We are proud to be pushing the boundaries with innovations like this and hope it inspires other homes to consider what might be meaningful for their own residents.

“It’s incredibly heart-warming to have the support of families who understand just how important these thoughtful touches are.”