10 Ways to Bring Some Christmas Magic into Care Homes
Christmas in care homes can be a lonely place for some and we know you do everything you can to be sure those you care for feel the magic of Christmas, regardless of their situation.
To help you spread some seasonal spirit, we wanted to share some ideas we’ve researched that can help bring the magic into care homes at Christmas for all your care home residents and staff. Check out these top ten Christmas ideas for care homes.
Create a "Resident Wishlist" for Thoughtful Gifts
Invite your residents to share small items or activities they’d love during the holidays. Whether it’s a favourite snack, a specific movie screening, or a cosy blanket, a Wishlist can make them feel valued. Encourage your staff, family members, or even local businesses to sponsor or contribute to these personalised gifts to make Christmas in care homes magical.
Decorate Together for Personal Touches
Set up a Decoration Day. Invite your residents, staff, and any visiting family to create handmade ornaments to spruce up their care homes at Christmas. Activities like decorating trees or crafting holiday wreaths not only brighten the space but also foster a sense of ownership and community by bringing people together.
Incorporate Festive Foods and Familiar Scents
Bring in seasonal flavours and aromas that can evoke fond memories. Consider holiday cookies, mulled cider, or even gingerbread baking sessions to engage your residents' senses. These simple touches can create a warm, nostalgic sense of Christmas in care homes that brings back happy memories.
Host a Festive Talent Show or Storytelling Hour
One of the best Christmas ideas for care homes is to invite residents and staff to showcase their talent. Singing carols, telling stories, or sharing poetry provides a wonderful opportunity to highlight personal talents, reminisce over shared memories, and create a festive, inclusive spirit.
Partner with Local Schools or Choirs for Virtual Carolling
If in-person visits aren’t possible, why not set up a virtual performance with a local school choir or community group? Seeing young faces and hearing familiar holiday songs can lift spirits in care homes at Christmas, connecting residents to the larger community.
Organise a Holiday Card Exchange
Have a holiday card-making session where residents create cards for each other or write to family and friends. Local schools or volunteer groups may also be interested in writing cards to residents in care homes at Christmas, adding a lovely element of surprise and connection.
Encourage Family-Inclusive Events
Schedule virtual family get-togethers so residents spending Christmas in care homes can connect with their loved ones from near and far. Events like a “Virtual Family Christmas Tea” can bring families closer, even from a distance. Staff could help set up tablets or laptops, ensuring every resident can participate.
Holiday Memory Wall or Storyboard
Dedicate a wall or bulletin board where residents can post photos, stories, or holiday memories from their past. Sharing history can open up conversations and deepen bonds in care homes at Christmas bringing residents and staff closer together.
Offer Quiet Spaces for Reflection
Christmas in care homes can bring up mixed emotions for people your residents. Why not designate a serene, festive corner where residents can spend quiet time or reflect? Simple additions like soft music, twinkling lights, and comfortable seating can offer residents a comforting retreat.
Encourage your Residents to Lead Activities
Encourage residents to share their own Christmas ideas for care homes. Give them the chance to lead holiday-themed activities, such as a craft session or a storytelling hour. This can give a renewed sense of purpose and can be rewarding for both leaders and participants.
We hope these Christmas ideas for care homes will help you build an inclusive, joyous, and comforting atmosphere during the holiday season. Remember, all staff at Nurseplus will work to empower care home managers with any creative suggestions that spread joy and merriment in care homes at Christmas.
We want to make everyone—from residents to staff—feel part of a warm, festive community.
Posted on December 13, 2024 by Nurseplus