Rose Ayling-Ellis discusses new documentary and teaching ExtraCare residents BSL

How have you found the experience of filming Rose Ayling-Ellis: Old Hands, New Tricks?

I have never felt such deep emotion on a job before. I got to know my students well and became very fond of each one of them. I felt a strong sense of responsibility to ensure they were having the best time possible while feeling comfortable and safe enough to open up when they wanted to. I loved every moment and felt so proud of the project and everyone involved.

How have the residents and staff been to work with?

It has been a real joy. They are wonderful, kind, and full of personality. It felt a bit like going back to school, seeing the same large group every day.

Full body shot of Rose hands in pockets from a distance

Did anything surprise you about the process? Any positives or challenges?

I was surprised at how young they remained in their minds. You’re never too old, and the only thing that stops you is your mindset. I realized how much humans need each other; life is always about the people around you. The thought of anyone being alone breaks my heart.

Why do you think it’s so important that BSL is taught, especially to the older generations?

Around 80% of people over 70 years old are losing their hearing, which is a significant number. As someone who was born deaf, I know that hearing aids and cochlear implants are not the solution many people think they are. They help, but they aren’t the complete answer. I have personal experience with how isolating it can feel not to hear things correctly. British Sign Language (BSL) has given me a community and a sense of belonging, and I want to share that with a large population of older adults. Additionally, the lack of care provided in this country for older BSL users is shockingly poor. There are only two care homes in the whole of the UK that cater to this population, and one of them is on an isolated island. This situation needs to be addressed. Providing BSL for everyone means access for all.

What was your favourite moment of filming?

Taking the students to deaf bingo! It was such a fun day, and it was fascinating to see two different worlds meet—yet they all shared a strong love for bingo.

How did you find working in the ExtraCare village?

I actually felt like one of the staff. Honestly, if I had another life where I wasn’t doing what I do now, I would want to work there!

Did you build a bond with the residents and staff?

Yes. On the first day, I was very nervous about meeting them. I worried about the reaction from the residents but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Their willingness to learn helped me to help them, and we became one big team. Hearing their stories and seeing photos from their younger days taught me that we often don’t know what others have gone through.

Did you learn anything about yourself in the process?

Absolutely. They taught me what truly matters in life. It’s not about who has the biggest achievements or changes the world; it’s really about who is around you, caring for each other, and never stopping your willingness to learn, regardless of your age.

What do you hope the legacy of the show will be?

I hope that BSL is recognised as a valuable language, not just for deaf people, for everyone. It goes so much deeper than that and has many benefits. I hope that all care homes and retirement villages across the UK learn BSL, it helps everyone plus give more choice for deaf BSL users.

To find out more about the show and meet the cast visit: Old Hands, New Tricks.