In Abbeville, France, a bistro has been set up right in the middle of a residential care home. The idea may come as a surprise, but the benefits are already quite visible: the residents – and their families – are delighted.
The local bistro is an emblematic place in France for sharing and socialising. It was with this in mind that Laurent Douchin, a psychiatric health executive, came to the idea of installing a café in the hall of an nursing home. The objective was to create a social space square where people could meet, chat and have a drink. This gives them the opportunity to exchange money for drinks, which is also a social link.
When it was set up in March 2023 the project was an immediate success. In just a few weeks, it has become the place to be for residents – and their families – who can sing, dance, play board games and share moments of happiness.
“Staying cooped up in your room is tiring and sad,” says Fabienne, who comes every day with her friend Maurice. Hérald, a resident for four years, agrees: “You feel better. For me, it’s like a holiday! It’s friendly. Since we’ve had this, everyone’s come back to life. People are laughing, it’s not the same thing at all.”
The bistro is run by an association of carers who manage stocks, operations and the till. Soda, coffee, beer (non-alcoholic) only costs just a few euros. The small profits are re-spent on activities for the residents, as for example, Christmas decorations, or a meal at the restaurant.
