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Solange 12th Dec 2011 Diversional Therapist

A Memorial service for residents who passed away in Nursing homes or Retirement Villages could be for instance, a small religious service performed by a minister of religion. It entails saying a group prayer, a resident or two reading a passage of the bible or remembering a friend with a few words or reading a poem of farewell.
Residents and their families may light candles or place wreaths near the 'altar' in honour of their loved ones.
Another alternative is to have a dignified non-religious ceremony which could go like this:
Start with some appropriate background music, then a welcome and brief explanation of the ceremony by someone of your choice. Follow with poems or stories read from members of the bereaved families and/or staff. If you wish it, have a minute of group silence in honour of those departed.
Offer refreshments at the ending of the ceremony.
Regarding your mother, I can only tell you what I did. My mum passed away last year in Brazil; I wasn't able to attend her funeral. I had a non-religious service at my house where I invited only relatives. We played the music she liked and had an album of photos of her three visits to Australia. After a long reminiscing session when we each spoke about her influence in our lives we planted a tree in her honour in the garden. This was followed by lunch.

Nieke 18th Jun 2021 LifeStyle Officer

I am working for a small independent living, a female resident had passed away and I would like to put her picture and something to hounour her in the lounge so other residents will aware of her passing. I need suggestion what to put beside her picture, what shall I write?
above her picture. In memory of ... and the DOB and day of passing?
Please advise.

Much appreciated and thank you.

Nieke

Susan 20th Jun 2021 Activity Director

Hi Nieke
I would only put her first name and not her date of birth and you could say that she passed away recently
You really have to be careful with confidentiality

Solange 20th Jun 2021 Diversional Therapist

Hi Nieke, you could put a rosary or any other symbol of the person's religion. Also some green foliage or flowers in a small jar; a battery-operated candle, a laminated short prayer. The table where you composes the 'In Memory' shoud have a nice tablecloth e.g. lace or crochet. Your ideas plus the above suggestions will make a display in honor of the deceased.

Nieke 21st Jun 2021 LifeStyle Officer

Thank you so much for the response. I appreciate it..

Cecilia 23rd Jun 2021 Life Enrichment Coordinator

Hi I work at a Retirement Living facility and when a resident passes we ask family members for permission and then we place the residents picture in a beautiful picture frame, place a light next to the picture and a copy of their obituaries. We display it in the hall where everyone can see it along with a sign that says ":you are loved". It have worked well so far.
I do like the idea of the memorial service and maybe such a service can be held quarterly in Memory of.

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