A 100-year-old care home resident in Macclesfield who experiences short-term memory loss has been able to recall vivid childhood memories thanks to language lessons.

Rosa Quaye, born in Bologna in 1925, has lived in England since the end of the second World War but is still fluent in Italian.

Now living at Ashfields Care Home on Prestbury Road, the centenarian has been taking part in Living Lingo, a specialist programme that has given her the opportunity to speak in her native tongue once more.

For Rosa, the sessions have unlocked memories staff had never heard before, including recollections of nuns walking her school class to church each afternoon to pray, and climbing Bologna's famous Two Towers 'Le Due Torri' as a girl.

"It makes me very happy to be able to speak to someone in Italian," said Rosa.

"I love to do this, and I will always be happy to teach others some simple Italian. I love to speak in Italian."

Born in Italy in 1925, 100-year-old Rosa moved to England at the end of the Second World War (Credit: Supplied)

Led by Living Lingo founder Liz Syed, the sessions use music, props, photographs and conversation to spark memories and support residents' wellbeing.

Liz says the benefits can extend far beyond emotional wellbeing.

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Research by Dr Thomas Bak at Edinburgh University found that bilingual people are less likely to develop dementia than monolingual people, and if they do, onset can be delayed by up to five years.

People who take up a language later in life can access the same benefits after just a few weeks of learning.

Liz said: "Rosa's eyes light up when she hears or speaks Italian.

"Speaking her first language builds her cognitive reserve and enhances her brain agility, but beyond the science, it gives her comfort, familiarity and calm.

"It was incredible to hear her reciting prayers in both Latin and Italian, learned at her convent school in Italy over 90 years ago."

The Living Lingo sessions sessions use music, props, photographs and conversation to spark memories and support residents' wellbeing (Credit: Supplied)

The impact was plain to see when Rosa began singing along to Nessun Dorma during one session. The room fell silent to listen, and she received a round of applause.

Sharon Bannister, manager at Ashfields Care Home, said: "Watching Rosa come alive during these sessions is one of those moments that reminds you why this work matters so much.

"She is so proud of her Italian heritage, and seeing her share that with other residents - teaching them words, singing, telling her stories - has been truly moving.

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"We are proud to offer experiences that connect our residents to who they really are."