Top 10 Popular Activities For Elderly People in Care Homes

Having a wide range of engaging activities for elderly people in care homes is crucial for promoting physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

These activities not only provide a sense of purpose and enjoyment but also help maintain cognitive function, improve mobility, and increase social connections.

In a care home setting, tailored activities can also enhance the quality of life, ensuring that residents remain active, engaged, and fulfilled. In this blog, we explore the top 10 activities that bring joy, stimulation, and a sense of community to elderly residents in care homes.

Why are activities in a care home important?

When searching for a care home, people understandably prioritise the quality of care, accommodation, location, and medical services. However, the specific activities provided for elderly people in care homes are equally important, as they have a significant impact on quality of life.

Activities such as walking can improve physical mobility, while others, like pet therapy, positively affect cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. Engaging activities are essential for maintaining a sense of purpose and enjoyment in daily life.

What is meant by activities?

The term "activities" refer to a wide range of undertakings that stimulate the mind.

However, when speaking specifically about activities for elderly people in a care home, this can refer to a range of pursuits that provide a sense of satisfaction and well-being. These can include entertainment like games, films, and reading, as well as visits to the hair salon, therapeutic sessions, and outings.

Top 10 activities for elderly people in care homes

Below, we explore the top 10 activities that bring joy, stimulation, and a sense of community to elderly residents in care homes.

Arts and crafts

Engaging in arts and crafts allows individuals to express their creativity while enhancing fine motor skills and cognitive function. Whether painting, knitting, or making jewellery, these activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and relaxation, offering a therapeutic outlet for emotions and stress.

Gardening

Gardening facilitates a much deeper connection to nature and the outdoors, promoting physical activity and mental well-being. Tending to plants and flowers can be incredibly rewarding, offering residents a sense of purpose and achievement while also encouraging patience and nurturing. If you want to learn more about the benefits associated with gardens, check out our blog on care home gardens.

Walking

Walking is a simple yet powerful activity that boosts physical health by improving mobility and cardiovascular health. Regular strolls around the garden or local park also provide opportunities for social interaction and a refreshing change of scenery, enhancing overall well-being. Regular walking has been scientifically proven to improve quality of life, psychosocial function, and functional activities. Over the long-term, walking has also been associated with fewer falls.

Outings

Organising outings to local attractions, parks, or cultural events keeps life exciting and engaging for care home residents. These excursions offer a break from routine, stimulate the mind, and provide social interaction, which is vital for maintaining emotional health and a sense of connection with the broader community.

Bingo

Bingo is a classic game that combines fun with mental stimulation. It encourages socialisation, improves cognitive skills like concentration, and provides a lively and enjoyable way for residents to come together and bond over a shared activity.

Board games

Board games offer an entertaining way to challenge the mind and promote social interaction. Games like chess, Scrabble, and Monopoly enhance cognitive function, strategic thinking, and memory, while also providing a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition among residents. However, playing board games may also have therapeutic benefits for elderly people. Some studies suggest that board games play an important role in reducing depression and improving attention.

Baking

The smell of freshly baked bread and cakes brings pleasure to many people. However, baking isn't just about creating delicious treats, it's a delightful activity that combines creativity with a full sensory journey. Baking also allows residents to reminisce about fond memories associated with cooking, while also providing a hands-on way to improve motor skills and enjoy the fruits of their labour in the form of delicious treats.

Singing

Singing can uplift spirits and bring people together through music. Whether participating in a choir or simply enjoying a sing-along, this activity promotes emotional expression, improves lung function, and enhances social bonds, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere. You don’t have to be a professional singer either, the simple act of joining in and sharing music with others can bring immense joy and a sense of celebration.

In-house entertainment

In-house entertainment, such as movie nights, live performances, or themed events, provides engaging and enjoyable experiences without the need to leave the care home. These events break the monotony of daily routines, stimulate the mind, and promote a lively and vibrant community spirit.

Book club

Reading books facilitates a love of reading and thoughtful discussion. It encourages intellectual stimulation, enhances vocabulary, and provides a platform for residents to share their insights and opinions, building strong social connections and a sense of community. A study conducted in China showed that elderly people with a regular reading habit experienced improved physical and mental health. Therefore, if reading is regularly integrated into daily routines, it can significantly enhance the quality of life for elderly residents.

How to find care homes that offers your preferred activities

If you are looking for care homes that offer a variety of engaging activities, our directory lets you choose facilities that offer specific activities and options that are tailored to you.

To search for these care homes, simply follow the instructions below.

• Start by entering your preferred location.
• Select ‘Additional filters.’
• From the dropdown menu, select ‘Activities at home’
• Simply check your preferred options’ and click ‘Search again.’

Get in touch with our team today!

If you need additional help in finding luxury care homes in your area, get in touch with us by calling our helpline team on 01892 33 53 30 for free and impartial advice. You can contact us 7 days a week (Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5.30pm, Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 10am – 4pm).