Activities in Care Homes: Why They Matter and What to Expect
Meaningful activities are vital for care home residents' wellbeing. This guide explains what good activity programmes look like.
Important
Engaging activities aren't just entertainment - they support physical health, mental stimulation, emotional wellbeing, and social connection. Good care homes prioritise meaningful activity.
- Reduce feelings of boredom and isolation
- Maintain cognitive function
- Support physical mobility
- Provide sense of purpose and achievement
- Create social connections
- Reduce anxiety and depression
- Physical - chair exercises, dancing, walks
- Creative - art, crafts, music, singing
- Cognitive - quizzes, puzzles, reminiscence
- Social - coffee mornings, parties, outings
- Sensory - aromatherapy, hand massage, music
- Intergenerational - visits from schools, nurseries
Good activity programmes are varied and adapted to different abilities. They should include options for those who prefer quieter activities as well as group events.
The best activities connect to residents' past interests and abilities. A former gardener might enjoy potting plants; someone who loved music might respond to familiar songs.
- Share information about your relative's interests and history
- Suggest activities they might enjoy
- Join in activities during visits
- Bring items that might spark engagement (photos, music)
NAPA (National Activity Providers Association) promotes meaningful activity. Activity coordinators should be happy to discuss programmes with families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are activities important in care homes?
Activities support physical health, mental stimulation, emotional wellbeing, and social connection. They reduce isolation, maintain cognitive function, and provide purpose and achievement.
What activities should a good care home offer?
Look for variety: physical activities, creative options, cognitive stimulation, social events, sensory activities, and opportunities tailored to individual interests and abilities.
How can I help my relative engage with activities?
Share their interests and history with activity staff, suggest activities they might enjoy, join in during visits, and bring items that might spark engagement like photos or favourite music.
What about residents who don't like group activities?
Good care homes offer alternatives - one-to-one activities, quieter options, and activities adapted to preferences. Ask how the home caters to those who prefer not to join groups.
Need More Help?
Support Organisations
- Age UK:0800 678 1602
- Carers UK:0808 808 7777
- Alzheimer's Society:0333 150 3456
- Parkinson's UK:0808 800 0303
Care Directory Support
Sources & References
- NAPA
- Age UK
- SCIE