Loneliness and isolation among residents have become an increasingly worrisome problem within care homes. In fact, 40% of older adults living in care homes experience these emotions.
As a result, it is now more important than ever before for care homes to encourage participation in social activities, bringing residents together to engage in meaningful connections and build a happy life for themselves.
Below, we take a look at the importance of social activities in care homes and offer some suggestions on where to start.
How can social activities help individuals in a care home?
Feelings of sadness, anxiety, and even depression are very common among older adults who are cut off from social interaction. However, by actively engaging in social activities, such as book clubs, arts and crafts and gardening, residents feel they have a supportive network where individuals can talk about life experiences, create stimulating conversations and form lasting friendships.
Combats social isolation
Social activities play many vital roles in helping residents in a care home combat isolation and loneliness. Firstly, these activities provide regular opportunities for social interaction, allowing residents to engage with one another, share experiences and build meaningful connections. It offers a chance to meet new people with similar interests or backgrounds, as well as reinforce previous friendship bonds.
Conversations and shared experiences during these activities also contribute to the development of deeper connections beyond surface-level interactions.
Moreover, the sense of belonging that arises from social engagement helps individuals feel understood, valued, and supported by their peers.
This emotional support network acts as a buffer against loneliness, providing companionship and positively impacting mental wellbeing.
Emotional wellbeing
Social activities are a great way to improve residents’ emotional wellbeing. In fact, fresh air, in combination with new experiences, not only enhances mood but also promotes mindfulness and cognitive stimulation. Mindfulness is about being present in the current moment, helping to create a slower pace of life that reduces stress.
Outdoor activities contribute significantly to anxiety reduction and stress relief, highlighting the importance of encouraging residents to spend time outside. Whether it’s a visit to the zoo or a daily stroll through the park, outdoor experiences are invaluable.
Participating in a huge range of activities also helps residents break up their routines, providing a change of environment. So introducing new experiences and pursuits will help create a vibrant and stimulating lifestyle.
Improve physical health
Social activities not only affect one’s emotional wellbeing but they are also known to improve physical health. Participating in activities outside the care home setting can motivate residents to be active and engage various muscle groups.
Firstly, group exercises or physical games incorporated into social activities encourage movement and help improve flexibility and coordination. Even for care home residents with limited mobility, accessible activities like pottery can be beneficial, enhancing their motor skills.
Of course, increasing overall movement contributes to the improvement of muscle strength, core strength and motor skills. Over time, these activities may lower the risk of serious illnesses like diabetes and alleviate strain on the heart while promoting better circulation.
Socialising can also serve as a motivational factor for residents to stay active, promoting a more consistent exercise routine.
But overall, regular physical activity, stimulated by social engagement, may contribute to weight management and improved overall fitness.
Which social activities are best for care homes?
Social activities in care homes don’t have to be overly complicated or need a lot of planning. Even the most simple activities offer a balance of physical, cognitive, and social stimulation, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment. Below are some of our top activity suggestions.
Reminiscence therapy
Reminiscence therapy, a popular social activity in care homes, involves recalling and discussing past experiences to enhance wellbeing among residents, particularly those with cognitive disorders like dementia. This therapeutic approach taps into long-term memories, helping to enhance a sense of identity and self-worth.
By sharing personal stories and engaging in reminiscing activities, residents often experience improved mood, reduced agitation, and increased social interaction among their friends.
But reminiscence therapy not only enhances the overall quality of life for residents but also aids in building stronger connections with caregivers. This holistic focus on positive past experiences ultimately contributes to a more positive and supportive environment within care homes.
Arts and crafts
Arts and crafts hold immense importance in care homes, providing residents with a creative outlet regardless of their physical and cognitive limitations. This therapeutic activity promotes self-expression, boosts confidence and enhances fine motor skills. But above all, arts and crafts help to create a sense of accomplishment and social interaction, as residents often collaborate on projects.
Beyond the tangible creations, the process itself becomes a means of communication and connection. For those facing challenges such as dementia, art serves as a powerful tool for emotional expression and memory stimulation.
Overall, arts and crafts contribute significantly to the holistic wellbeing and quality of life in care home settings.
Gardening
Gardening in care homes serves as a therapeutic and meaningful activity, offering residents a connection to fellow residents and a sense of purpose. Aside from social connection, planting, cultivating, and tending to gardens provides physical exercise, enhancing mobility and coordination. The sensory experience of gardening, from the feel of soil to the scents of flowers, stimulates cognitive functions and promotes relaxation. Residents often derive a sense of accomplishment as they witness the fruits of their labour, leading to improved self-esteem.
But beyond individual benefits, communal gardens encourage social interaction, creating a shared space that enhances the overall wellbeing and quality of life for residents in care homes.
Book clubs
Book clubs in care homes offer more than literary discussions; they serve as a powerful tool for social connection and cognitive engagement. Bringing residents together to share thoughts on literature helps to enhance meaningful conversations, reducing feelings of isolation. In fact, the shared reading experience creates a sense of community and friendship among participants.
Beyond enhancing cognitive abilities through literary exploration, book clubs provide a platform for residents to express themselves, building their self-esteem.
By promoting a culture of shared learning and communication, these clubs contribute significantly to the social wellbeing of care home residents, creating connections that go beyond the pages of the books they explore together.
At The Fremantle Trust, we take pride in helping our residents feel right at home. Our friendly team is deeply committed to providing our residents with a huge range of social activities that combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Contact us today to find out more about how your loved one can feel a part of our community.
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