I have been inspired lately by videos I’ve seen on TikTok from care homes, support workers and fitness experts across the country and beyond. These short clips show creative but simple activities to keep elderly residents moving, engaged, and (most importantly) smiling, which in turn boost their brain and body function and overall wellbeing.
For example, Temple Croft Care Home has residents dancing and laughing together with simple routines. Generation Fitness runs chair-based sessions full of music and fun. In Malaysia, Kampungkum blends movement and brain games that cross cultures. And creators like Bailey Greetham show playful ways to reimagine activities for seniors everywhere.
Now, we’re not expecting all seniors to want to solve murders and fight crime like the characters in Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club novels (and now Netflix movie), set in a retirement home in Fairhaven, Kent. But it does remind us that older people have curiosity, wit, and a deep appetite for connection and mental challenge. Our role in care is to offer safe, engaging opportunities that let those qualities shine.
Care is at its best when it feels human. The activities don’t need to be grand or costly. Often it’s the small, shared moments—singing, laughing at a silly game, or painting a picture—that stay with someone the longest. Here are some ideas gathered from wonderful examples in the community and a few tried-and-tested favourites from care settings across the UK.
Movement with Meaning
Keeping mobile is not about strict exercise routines but finding joy in movement.
- Chair-based fitness: Gentle seated workouts, run by groups like Generation Fitness, help residents move safely while enjoying music and laughter.
- Dance and rhythm: A waltz, a line dance, or even a conga through the lounge brings energy into the room. Many residents surprise themselves with how much they remember once the music starts.
- Floor and garden games: Skittles, bean bag toss, balloon volleyball—light play that helps coordination and lifts spirits.
Creative Minds at Work
Unleashing and exploring creativity can happen at all ages.
- Arts and crafts: Collage, painting, card-making, or clay modelling. Activities that allow choice and expression.
- Scrapbooking and memory books: Residents can piece together photos, postcards, or written memories, sparking conversation and pride.
- Flower arranging: Simple, colourful, and accessible to those with limited mobility.
Music and Memory
Music has a unique power. It connects deeply with memories and emotions.
- Sing-alongs: Whether it’s classics from the 50s or a tune from the radio, group singing bonds people together.
- Personal playlists: Using headphones for one-to-one sessions can immerse someone in their favourite songs and often sparks vivid reminiscence.
- Instrument play: Handheld percussion instruments turn music into participatory activity, not just listening.
Games for Connection
Games encourage just the right amount of fun competition between residents and carers – and not that there’s anything wrong with bingo night, but there are so many other games out there!
- Puzzles and word games: From sudoku to crosswords or jigsaw puzzles, these keep the brain working.
- Board and card games: Dominos, draughts, scrabble, boggle are timeless favourites.
- Quizzes: Topical or themed sessions are light-hearted and inclusive, especially when carers join in too.
Gentle Care and Wellbeing
Not every activity needs energy; some of the most valued moments are slower ones.
- Hand massage and nail care: Small gestures of care that also build trust and calm.
- Chair yoga: Gentle stretches for those with reduced mobility.
- Meditation and quiet time: Guided relaxation can bring a sense of calm to residents who may feel anxious.
Bringing the Outside In
Connection to nature and the wider community matters.
- Gardening: Planting herbs or flowers in pots lets residents nurture something, even in small spaces.
- Nature walks: For those able, a stroll in fresh air is grounding. For others, opening the window with a cup of tea and birdsong can have the same effect.
- Intergenerational visits: Children visiting nurseries or schools create beautiful, shared experiences.
Inspiration Corner
Activities work best when they feel personal, safe, and regular. Start small, build confidence, and notice what makes people light up. A good session can be ten minutes of music, a quiet puzzle, or a round of skittles that gets everyone smiling.
Try these gentle steps:
- Ask residents what they enjoy. Use life stories, favourite songs, and past hobbies to guide ideas.
- Keep it safe and inclusive. Offer seated options, clear instructions, and larger print or brighter colours when needed.
- Mix brain and body. Pair a quiz with a short stretch, or music with light percussion.
- Involve families and volunteers. Invite them to share songs, photos, or skills.
- Share what works. Swap ideas across shifts and homes. A simple photo board or activity log helps.
If an idea lands, repeat it. If it does not, change it. The aim is not perfection. The aim is connection and a bit of joy in the day.
Great ideas are everywhere. Look to your team and residents first. Browse TikTOk accounts like Temple Croft, Generation Fitness, Kampungkum Malaysia, and Bailey Greetham to spark an idea. Check websites such as Active-Together Golden Games and Story Point for more options.
Then adapt what you find to suit your people and your space.
Most of all, keep the door open to play, purpose, and pride. Every shared song, planted seed, or finished puzzle can lift a mood, build confidence, and support brain and body health. That is the heart of good care.
