There was plenty of colour and concentration at Gedling Care Home as residents enjoyed a relaxing mindfulness colouring session, putting their creativity and precision to the test while making their very own keepsake bookmarks.
The activity encouraged residents to practise colouring between the lines, experiment with technique and focus on the task at hand. But, as always at Gedling, the finished product was only part of the fun. Taking part offered an opportunity to concentrate, make individual choices about colours and designs, and enjoy the simple satisfaction of creating something lovely to keep.
Finding new and enjoyable ways to stimulate the mind is an important part of life at Gedling. Activities don’t always need to be big trips or special occasions to make a difference. Sometimes, sitting down with colours, having something to focus on and enjoying a little creativity can be just as valuable.
Holding the activity in the main hall also meant it became a social occasion. Even residents who didn’t fancy picking up the colouring pencils themselves could still be part of what was happening, enjoying the company, conversation and atmosphere around them. It’s all part of making activities inclusive and giving everyone the choice to participate in whatever way feels right for them.
At Gedling, we believe the fundamentals of good care are non-negotiable: keeping residents safe, well fed, hydrated, comfortable and, above all, loved and valued. But we don’t believe good care should stop there.
Once those essential needs are met, it’s about continuing to nourish the mind and soul. It’s about laughter, friendship, stimulation, independence and choice. It’s about giving residents new things to try and new experiences to look forward to, whether that means heading out on an adventure or simply discovering a new activity together at home.
We are always striving to find more ways to bring variety, purpose and enjoyment into everyday life at Gedling. Because growing older shouldn’t mean that opportunities to learn, create, socialise and try something different come to an end. If anything, we think there should always be something new to look forward to.
