Just in time for Christmas, iconic British model maker CORGI has partnered with a local care home to deliver a heart-warming festive surprise that celebrates memory, nostalgia and the power of storytelling.
Working closely with Copperfield Court Care Home in Broadstairs, CORGI set out to uncover meaningful stories from residents’ pasts – from the first vehicle they ever drove to the transport that once defined their working lives. Those memories were then brought to life through carefully chosen diecast model gifts, creating moments of joy and connection in the run-up to the big day.
How miniature models unlocked powerful memories
As residents opened their gifts, the room quickly filled with conversation and laughter. People began recalling the roar of Spitfires overhead, the smell of car engines, and the bold colours of vehicles that once shaped their everyday lives.
For older adults – particularly those living with dementia – memory prompts such as miniature vehicles, photographs, maps and music can have a powerful impact. These tangible reminders help reconnect people with their past, elevate mood and encourage social interaction, all of which are vital to mental wellbeing in later life.
Research regularly highlights the value of reminiscence activities in dementia care, with organisations such as Alzheimer’s Society advocating sensory-based engagement as a way to improve quality of life.
Residents’ stories brought back to life
One resident, Christopher, 67, unwrapped a bright red London bus, instantly transporting him back to his daily commute from Sutton-at-Hone into the capital. He vividly recalled sprinting down the street to catch the bus, buying an all-day ticket, chatting with the conductor and even jumping onto the open platform while the bus was still moving.
Meanwhile, Christine, 78, was gifted a Superior Ambulance model, which immediately took her back to her career as a Nursing Assistant, prompting stories of long shifts, teamwork and dedication to patient care.
Moments like these underline how deeply personal objects can spark memories that might otherwise remain locked away.
Expert insight on reminiscence and wellbeing
Professor Victoria Tischler, Professor of Behavioural Science at the University of Surrey, highlighted the wider benefits of initiatives like this:
“Providing stimulating and joyful activities for older people is an essential part of good care. Models of vehicles represent interesting multisensory objects that can be used to promote meaningful conversation and memories. Handling and exploring these objects allow older people to share knowledge and stories about travel, family and favourite films – helping to build relationships with carers and loved ones. For those with dementia, combining touch, sight and hearing brings them into the present moment and improves mood and attention.”
Why nostalgia makes the perfect Christmas gift
According to David Mather, Head of Marketing at CORGI, the experience was as special for the team as it was for residents:
“We had a wonderful day spreading Christmas joy to residents local to our factory. It was lovely to see how our diecast models can help unlock memories and lead to interesting discussions. Rather than the standard socks or toiletries, a model linked to a personal recollection can become a real conversation starter with family members over the festive period.”
From cars that drove loved ones to weddings, to Second World War Spitfires and iconic vehicles from film and TV franchises like James Bond and Thunderbirds, CORGI’s range taps into shared cultural history as much as personal memory.
A thoughtful festive gift idea
For anyone searching for a meaningful Christmas present – especially for older relatives – nostalgia-led gifts can offer emotional value far beyond the wrapping paper. You can explore CORGI’s full collection of classic cars, aircraft and pop-culture vehicles at uk.corgi.co.uk.
