The team at the Adderbury care home, love making their residents’ wishes come true. Eighty-six-year-old Pat’s wish was for glamour. As a lifelong lover of makeup and beauty, she has always taken pride in her appearance. Pat has never lost her passion for looking and feeling fabulous, so the team organised the special activity for her.

Amy Gibbs, a professional skincare and makeup artist from Charlotte Tilbury, came to the home to give Pat the full makeover experience. Amy, whose mother works at Lake House, was thrilled to take part. “When I heard about Pat, I wanted to get involved straight away,” said Amy. “I love helping mature ladies look and feel their best. Older women are often overlooked in the beauty industry, but that’s changing — and it’s wonderful to see more diversity. I believe every woman deserves to feel confident and radiant, no matter her age.” 

Amy began by sitting down with Pat for a personal consultation, talking through her usual makeup routine, and finding out how she wanted to look and feel. “It’s all about the individual,” Amy explained. “Like person-centred care, makeup should always be person-centred too.” 

Amy carefully colour-matched her foundation, testing several shades to find the perfect tone for Pat’s complexion. Together, they discussed how skin changes over time and how makeup products and textures can be adapted to enhance mature skin beautifully. 

“Makeup is such a pick-me-up,” said Amy. “It’s not just about how you look — it’s about how you feel. Having a bit of ‘me time’ can make such a difference, especially when someone’s been through a hard time or isn’t feeling their best.” 

Pat opted for a glamorous look with full coverage and a touch of sparkle — perfect for the festive season ahead. Amy used a neutral eyeshadow base with a shimmer at the centre of the lids to brighten the eyes, finishing with blush, a soft pink lip liner and lipstick, and a setting spray to lock it all in. 

As the transformation came together, Pat’s face lit up. Pat said: “I’m so grateful to Lake House for giving me this experience. Amy was lovely and really knew her stuff. I think I’m in good condition for eighty six. The makeup definitely helps too.” 

Pat’s makeover was a wonderful reminder that glamour has no age limit. She summed it up perfectly when Pat asked Amy asked what the occasion was, and Amy replied: “What’s the occasion? You’re the occasion, Pat!” 

Alex Grindle, Home Manager at Lake House, said: “It’s so important that our residents can continue enjoying the things they’ve always loved. Making wishes like Pat’s come true helps remind everyone that life doesn’t have to change when you move into a care home. Everything we do is about celebrating our residents’ individuality and helping them live life to the fullest.”