As we get older, we are faced with increasing challenges and obstacles thrown our way. Challenges like decreasing mobility and cognitive decline can add to the barriers we face to making meaningful connections with others. Being confronted with difficult challenges like these can add to a decline in mental wellbeing if left unmanaged, which is why having access to daily activities is important for elderly in care.
Staying active and having an exciting routine is necessary to ensure meaningful interactions are a regular occurrence in their lives. Whether that is through exercise or conversation, we must keep activities going to ensure they keep feeling a sense of purpose.
Let’s explore why it’s important that we encourage social interaction and learn a bit about the activities we plan at Friary Care, to ensure the best quality of life for our elderly residents.
Why is it Social Engagement Beneficial For the Elderly
As we get older, it can become much more difficult to make meaningful social interactions with others. Even more so for seniors who are struggling to adapt to the ever-evolving environments with the recent technological advancements. It’s easy for older people to feel isolated from the outside world, sometimes even from close friends and family members.
Isolation from the outside world can lead to loneliness and sometimes even depression. Depression is a deep concern for the elderly and it is common due to isolation and changing lifestyle, so it can often go unnoticed. Loneliness is another cause of concern that the elderly are faced with due to becoming separated from loved ones and familiar surroundings, especially if they have just moved into residential care.
Many studies have shown that the decrease in social interactions can lead to concerns and health issues in the elderly like anxiety and some physical health issues as they become more detached from the world.
But all this can be improved by implementing engaging social activities that encourage conversation and interactions with others. These social engagements can reignite a sense of connection to others and the world around them, which helps to improve the connectivity that they desire and gain that sense of purpose they seek. This can lead to a deeper sense of fulfilment and emotional wellbeing.
Types of Social Activities For the Elderly
We offer a wide variety of activities designed to encourage social interaction among our residents. At Friary Care, we know that social activities for older adults are anything but boring – and our residents are living proof. They regularly take part in engaging, joyful experiences that bring a real sense of fulfilment and excitement to their daily lives.
Her we have implemented into our activity plans at Friary Care:
- Live game show
- Group tournaments
- Book club
- Group exercises like Pilates, yoga, dancing and swimming
- Bingo
- Group self care days
- Walking group
- Happy hour with tea and talk
- Gardening club
- Life story exercises
- Lessons and lectures on new skills
- Field trips
- Cooking class
- Music therapy
- Pet therapy
- Hosting a concert
How to Implement Activities in Care Settings
Introducing new activities into a loved one’s routine can sometimes be challenging—especially if it’s something they’re not familiar with. That’s why, at Friary Care, we take the time to get to know each resident personally, learning about their interests and preferences. This helps us tailor activities that they’re most likely to enjoy and engage with. For example, nature lovers might enjoy outdoor sessions like gardening, gentle walks, or nature-based crafts. For those who prefer a quieter setting, we offer seated activities such as book clubs, puzzles, and group games designed to encourage connection and meaningful interaction.
At Friary Care, we thoughtfully tailor each activity plan to suit our residents’ individual needs, taking into account their health, mobility, and personal preferences. For those with limited physical ability, we design activities that are both accessible and enjoyable—helping them feel confident and at ease while taking part.
By carefully listening to what each resident enjoys, and understanding what they may find challenging, we’re able to create meaningful routines that encourage social connection and make participation something to look forward to.
Care Home Activities at Friary Care
At our care home in Weymouth, Dorset, we offer a wide variety of activities designed to promote meaningful social engagement between our residents and our dedicated care team. We believe that staying socially active is an important part of overall well-being, which is why we tailor our activity plans to reflect each resident’s preferences and interests.
Our daily schedule includes group exercises and team-based activities that encourage connection and participation. To keep things fresh and exciting, we also host special events like animal therapy visits and social outings – adding variety to the routine and creating moments our residents genuinely look forward to.
If you’d like to learn more about the support we provide, including our vibrant programme of social activities, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team or arrange a tour of Friary Care.
Our team is here to help you and your loved one receive the best care support possible to ensure the best quality of life for their elderly years.
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