Care home resident Elsie Thomas proved that age is no barrier to having a good time as she celebrated her 100th birthday at Friars Mead, a residential care home in Kings Langley.
Elsie, who has lived locally for over 70 years, spent her day dressing up, unwrapping presents, and taking video calls from family, friends and well-wishers.
The care home, which is managed by the Abbeyfield Hertfordshire Residential Care Society, went the extra mile to help Elsie celebrate her birthday in style.
Carolyn Hill, activity coordinator at Friars Mead, said: “Due to lockdown restrictions, Elsie’s family were only able to pay her a window visit, so it was up to us to make her day extra special. She had told us she wanted to wear a dress on her birthday, so our manager made sure she had a lovely floral one to wear. She looked like a queen, complete with her 100 sash and tiara.”
Royalty was present in the room in more than one way, as Elsie also opened a 100th birthday card from The Queen, along with many others from her fellow residents. She also received many gifts from her family including a digital photo frame and a china cup and saucer, from which Elsie prefers to drink her tea.
The day was made complete with food and drink – champagne for lunch, and cake for afternoon tea, organised by Elsie’s family – and a 100 themed quiz, which is her favourite activity.
Carolyn remarked: “It was a wonderful day to be a part of for all the residents and staff. In normal times we would not have had the privilege to be so involved, as the families normally visit or take the residents out for their birthdays. We all felt honoured and blessed to share the day with Elsie, and the celebrations helped to create a lovely atmosphere during these hard times. Elsie is a joy to be around and certainly in great form for 100!”
Elsie’s youthful demeanour comes from an active life in Kings Langley, where she has worked in the village shop, been an active member of All Saints Church and the WI, and could often been seen out on her bike cycling up and down the village hill well into her retirement.
When asked about the secret to a long and healthy life, Elsie said: “Do not worry about things, just take life as it comes.” Having also received a lemon tree to plant in Friars Mead’s beautiful landscaped garden, where she can be found all year round, she added: “And remember to get lots of sun and fresh air!”
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