Newton Mearns care home couple, the Kirklands, are celebrating their 68th Valentine’s Day together. Archibald (Archie) and Martha Kirkland will share their first February 14th under a different roof at Meallmore Group’s Mearns House, after moving in together last year.
Archie, aged 93, and Martha, aged 91, first met in London in the early fifties through a mutual friend. The pair fell in love over the telephone and began dating before tying the knot in London in May 1955. They have been inseparable since, rarely spending a day apart. In 1964, the pair moved to Scotland, switching the English capital for the south of Glasgow where Archie grew up.
Providing tips for a happy marriage, the pair explain that being there for each other every day is the key. After almost 70 years together, Archie and Martha are well in sync, helping each other with their daily tasks; Archie assists Martha with her mobility and she always reminds him what to do next.
Following a fall that resulted in a hospital stay for Martha last spring, the couple moved into Mearns House in adjacent rooms, giving them the opportunity to continue to be by one another’s side each day.
“We are happy to be in Mearns House being well looked after by all the kind staff – comfortable, secure and enjoying other people's company,” said Archie.
The home is planning a special day to treat the Kirklands, including a Valentine’s Day meal, live entertainment and a number of themed activities throughout the day.
Mearns House manager, Kirsty Craig, said: “Archie and Martha set a great example for long-lasting love and the importance of supporting one another this Valentine’s Day. The pair are excellent company and bring a real liveliness to the home – we love welcoming their family to Mearns for visits.”
The Kirklands have four children – daughters Annelies, Jean and Rita, and son Mark. The family commented: “We are so pleased that Mum and Dad really enjoy life together in Mearns House. The facilities are great and they take part in many of the activities on offer. The staff are kind and couldn’t do more for them.”
Along with their children, Archie and Martha also have six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Mearns House, located on Aldton Court in Newton Mearns, is run by Meallmore Ltd and provides excellent standards of care for its residents, including those living with mobility issues and dementia.