The Importance of Social Activity for Care Home Residents

Article Synopsis

This article looks at why it is important for care home residents to enjoy plenty of social activities, whether for their physical or mental health.

There’s also a look at the activities laid on at Baxendale Care Home; some of these are seasonal while others are more regular fixtures in the calendar.

The article will take around three minutes to read.

One of the areas the Care Quality Commission looks at when checking up on care homes is the number of social activities which are laid on for residents. The activities are seen as a key component of providing “person-centred care” and promoting the overall well-being of residents.

Here we look at some of the benefits in more detail, and how Baxendale Care Home, a caring home in North London, lays on a variety of events both in the home and in the local community.

Baxendale Care Home – a 24-hour Care Home in Whetstone

Baxendale Care Home provides around-the-clock residential care for more than 40 residents at any one time. We also offer specialist dementia care for residents – from early onset to later stages. The home can also offer short stays for people who have recently undergone an operation or spent time in hospital, or to give respite to family members or existing carers.

We are currently rated ‘Good‘ by the CQC.

The Physical Benefits

Although some elderly people may be restricted in their movements, it’s important to stay as physically active as possible. Regular exercise increases strength, mobility, flexibility and balance. It also gives elderly people more energy, and it may keep the onset of arthritis and other restrictive conditions at bay.

These benefits help older people to maintain their independence, due to being better able to continue with day-to-day tasks and reducing the risk of falls and the serious injuries that they often result in.

At Baxendale, we often have special instructors in to guide residents through chair aerobics and ‘movement to music’. We also have a number of outside events, including trips to local theatres, churches and other local religious centres, all of which involve plenty of exercise.

The Mental Health Benefits

Physical activity also helps with memory, concentration and problem-solving, both immediately afterwards and in the long term when done regularly. Exercise also releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular engagement in activities also provides mental stimulation and a sense of routine.

In scientific terms, this is because it increases the blood flow to the brain, which carries oxygen and essential nutrient that support the brain to function at its best.

At Baxendale we lay on a number of activities which help keep our residents’ minds active. Our regular weekly events include arts and crafts sessions, bingo and board games; sometimes we lay on seasonal events around Easter, the summer and Christmas.

For Dementia Patients

If your loved one is in the early stages of dementia, then they should still be able to benefit from the activities listed above. It’s often assumed that people in the later stages of the condition are unable to engage in activities, but this isn’t true.

The NHS official advice page says that activities will often need to be simplified and are more likely to focus on the senses – sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell.

As well as having a dedicated dementia unit, at Baxendale we also have a special sensory room with interactive and stimulating lights and projections. This is available to everyone, not just residents with dementia.

The Importance of ‘Quiet Time’

However, it’s equally important for care home residents to enjoy some time on their own; too much over-stimulation or excitement can be as bad for their mental health as too little. A period of peace and quiet allows the brain to recover and process information, improving focus, memory, and cognitive engagement.

At Baxendale, residents can take part in as many or as few social activities as they wish. We also have a lounge which functions as a quiet space where they can enjoy the view across our beautiful grounds or simply read a newspaper. We also have a library which doubles as a visitor room.

Becoming a Resident at Baxendale Care Home

If you would like to know more about our caring home in North London, then you can call us on 020 8445 1127, or email us at info@baxendale.org.uk. You can also follow this link and complete the online form.

FAQS:

Q: How are you admitted to Baxendale Care Home?

A: You don’t need a GP referral to be eligible to come to Baxendale, you can contact us directly using the details above.
However, we will contact you or your loved one’s GP for a medical report as part of the pre-assessment process. We issue a contract ahead of any residency, which needs to be signed and returned by the date of admission. This can be completed and returned electronically, as well as by hand or through the post.

Q: Can family members participate in any of our social events?

A: We love it when families get involved! Our Annual Garden Party is a highlight of the year where families, staff, and residents mingle. We also host other events (such as an Aperitif Hour) where relatives are welcome to visit and enjoy a glass of wine or sherry with their loved ones in a social setting.

Q: Can you suggest a new activity?

A: Yes, you are more than welcome to, whether you are a resident or a loved one. We hold monthly residents’ meetings about activities, staffing, meals and mealtimes, and any other items of interest. Our Trustees also visit monthly to talk with the residents on a one-to-one basis.