A Sydenham care centre had a 1940s-style makeover to launch its new dementia support group.

There were dementia awareness talks, information and items from the past to reassure sufferers at the group’s launch at Peartree Care Centre, in Sydenham Road, on May 9.

News Shopper: Sydenham care centre launches dementia support group

A reminiscence corner displayed arts and crafts, old-fashioned coins, and even a 1949 wedding dress from a resident who shared American actress Doris Day's name.

News Shopper: Sydenham care centre launches dementia support group

The support group for relatives at the care home will meet every two months so they can share their experiences and offer each other support.

News Shopper: Sydenham care centre launches dementia support group

Clinical manager Lucy Hyde-Pawley said: "It went really well.

"The group is for the relatives. They want to meet each other and talk about their feelings about their parent’s diagnosis and what they are going through.

"It is such a traumatic period in their lives, just to sit and talk to someone can be a great relief."

News Shopper: Sydenham care centre launches dementia support group