High tea is a delightful and engaging activity for seniors in aged care facilities. It not only provides enjoyment but also serves as a wonderful opportunity for reminiscing, especially for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. In this guide, we’ll explore how to organize a successful high tea event tailored to the needs and preferences of seniors.
Why High Tea for Seniors?
High tea, a British tradition dating back to the early 1900s, is an excellent choice for seniors. It allows them to connect with memories of their youth and childhood, promoting social interaction and enhancing overall well-being.
Getting Started: How to run a High Tea event
1. Prepare the Menu
To start, collaborate with your kitchen staff to create a menu that includes small plates of sandwiches, cakes, and biscuits. Ensure the offerings are not only delicious but also easy for seniors to handle.
2. Acquire the Essentials
Add a dash of charm to your high tea by hunting for vintage cups, saucers, and tea pots – they can be treasures from donations or second-hand stores. Spice it up further with delightful sandwich plates and don’t forget to aim high with elegant 3-tier serving stands. Top it off with decorative napkins for a touch of whimsy, and you’ve got the recipe for a fun-filled high tea experience!
3. Set the Scene
Begin by covering a long table with an appealing tablecloth. Arrange the china gracefully, and play soft classical music in the background to set a charming atmosphere that will delight your senior guests.
Here is a fantastic soft background music that we found for you.
4. Engage in Meaningful Conversation
During the high tea event, encourage discussions that resonate with your senior guests. Topics can range from current news to fond memories of their youth, including family, weddings, dating, dances, and other nostalgic subjects. This helps foster a sense of connection and camaraderie.
5. Special Dress-Up Events
Some aged care centers enhance their high tea experiences by introducing themed dress-up events. For example, consider hosting a “Mrs. Bucket (Bouquet) from Keeping Up Appearances” day. Encourage everyone to dress up and wear hats, with one guest playing the role of Mrs. Bouquet and engaging in character interactions. These themed events are not only fun but also foster laughter and camaraderie among participants.
By following these steps, you can create memorable high tea experiences for seniors in your aged care facility. High tea is not just a delightful culinary tradition; it’s a way to bring joy, connection, and cherished memories to the lives of our senior residents.
