Discover how activities at Sanders Senior Living luxury care homes go beyond bingo to boost wellbeing, with carnivals, intergenerational days, charity days & canal trips
Beyond Bingo: Modern Activities in Care Homes That Boost Wellbeing
Seasonal Celebrations That For years, ‘activities in care homes’ meant bingo cards and the odd sing-along. Those classics still have a place, but today’s best programmes are broader, research-informed, and rooted in each person’s story.
At Sanders Senior Living, Lifestyle Coordinators in each of our luxury care homes create an enriching environment built upon social interaction, connection and companionship. This is delivered through a robust programme of activities, designed around the real interests and life stories of our residents – so they do far more than pass the time; they thrive.
Recent highlights include a summer carnival at Beauleigh Court, an intergenerational school partnership in Leicester, and even a black-tie Christmas party in Leigh-on-Sea, bringing together residents, relatives, staff and members of the local community – proof that life in our homes is vibrant, social, and full of purpose.
Why Activities Matter
A thoughtful activity programme does more than fill a diary. Regular movement supports physical health, cognitive stimulation, purpose and joy. We start by asking our residents and their loved ones what truly brings them joy – hobbies, music, pets, professions – then build a schedule that feels familiar, motivating and fun. That is why you will see big moments, like Santa’s Grotto afternoons that bring families together, alongside regular social clubs and gentle movement that build routine and confidence.
Movement With Meaning (not just exercise)
Movement is most effective when it feels enjoyable and achievable. Our care homes build low-impact options – walks in the garden or corridors, light stretch sessions, and music-led movement – so everyone can join in comfortably. Such as the Sanders Steppers who set gentle step goals and celebrate progress – even on rainy days.
Recognition matters, too. At Wilton Manor, our Lifestyle Lead was shortlisted for a local ‘Let’s Get Moving’ hero award – highlighting how dedicated leadership turns activity plans into measurable wellbeing gains.
Creative Arts That Spark Connection
Creativity invites self-expression and reminiscence. Across the group, care homes host themed days and seasonal celebrations that blend music, costumes and décor – like Graysford Hall’s festive Santa’s Grotto, where residents and relatives sung carols, shared stories and photo moments in a transformed space. The result is a warm, shared experience that feels far beyond a standard afternoon activity.
Nature, Nurture and the Great Outdoors
Time outside boosts mood, appetite and sleep. When weather allows, teams take activities into gardens and courtyards (such as harvesting fresh tomatoes); when it does not, larger-scale community events bring the outdoors in. Chalkwell Grange’s Summer Screen Soiree, for example, transformed the home into a Hollywood-inspired setting complete with a red carpet. Staff, residents and relatives joined in to bring the magic of movies to life with costumes, quizzes and cocktails.
Purpose Through Projects, Clubs and Community
A sense of purpose comes from doing things that matter together. Recent examples include:
- Hawaiian-themed summer soirée (Graysford Hall): Residents, families and the team turned the gardens into a tropical venue – music, colour and a relaxed party atmosphere.
- Charity fundraisers (Beauleigh Court): ‘Wear Your Pyjamas to Work Day’ in support of Age UK blended fun with a cause that resonates with residents.
- Blue Light Afternoon Tea (Beauleigh Court): A thank-you event for local emergency services, bringing community heroes into the care home for conversation and connection.
These occasions create anticipation beforehand and conversation long after – key markers of meaningful engagement.
Intergenerational Links and Local Partners
People flourish when they feel part of something bigger. Graysford Hall’s ongoing link with Crownhills Community College brings students into the care home for shared activities, confidence-building chats and learning across generations. Meanwhile, a partnership with Majestic Wines introduced a bespoke wine list – perfect for hosted tastings, bistro evenings and family occasions that feel special.
Days Out and Shared Adventures
Getting out together strengthens friendships and offers new talking points. Residents from Graysford Hall and Wilton Manor recently enjoyed a scenic canal-boat trip – fresh air, gentle views and shared memories between sister care homes. These ‘big day out’ moments punctuate the calendar and add variety to weekly routines.
Stitch the Year Together
Marking the seasons brings rhythm and joy. From Halloween parties and glamorous casino nights at Beauleigh Court to a Bridal Fashion Show at Chalkwell Grange and a Santa’s Grotto at Graysford Hall, these events turn lounges into theatres for community life – costumes, music, treats and plenty of laughter.
Dining as a Social Highlight
Mealtimes are natural anchors for connection. Bespoke wine lists and café-style bistros help create occasions – coffee mornings, afternoon teas and family brunches – where food and conversation flow. Hosted tastings linked to the Majestic Wines collaboration add a touch of discovery and celebration.
How We Measure What Matters
An effective programme evolves. Teams track participation and listen to resident and family feedback, looking for outcomes that count – better appetite and sleep, new friendships and confidence to try something different. Calendars balance lively events (e.g. carnivals, soirées) with quieter, small-group sessions so everyone can find their fit.
What to Look For on Your Tour
When you visit a care home, ask to see the current activity calendar – and look beyond it:
- Are people engaged right now, not just on paper?
- Do activities reflect residents’ interests and the local community (e.g. school links, emergency services visits)?
- Is there variety each week – movement, creative, social, seasonal, outings?
- Can the team explain how they adapt sessions for different needs?
- Are families invited to join in or suggest ideas?
If you hear laughter, see personal touches on display and notice residents leading the way, you are in the right place.
Discover Life Beyond Bingo
At Sanders Senior Living, activities are not extras; they are the heartbeat of daily life. Explore real examples on our news pages – from Beauleigh Court’s carnival and charity days to Graysford Hall’s intergenerational projects, Santa’s Grotto and canal-boat adventures – and see how we turn good days into great ones.
Ready to see it in action? Get in touch with our friendly, highly trained team today to find your nearest Sanders Senior Living luxury care home. Explore our luxury spaces and pick up a sample calendar. We will help you or your loved one live a life that brings purpose, comfort and genuine enjoyment – far beyond bingo.
