Get out the Dabber!
This Monday at 6 pm, Lakeside Care Home will open its doors for a heart-warming Bingo Night for residents and their families, an event that will further cement the community feel at the home.
Lakeside is known for creating a vibrant and fulfilling life for those living there through a varied programme of activities that encourage engagement, enjoyment and social interaction. From gardening and quiz nights to baking and shared hobbies, the home prides itself on offering meaningful moments in daily life.
Events like Monday’s Bingo Night do much more than provide an evening of entertainment; they play a powerful role in supporting wellbeing. Social activities in care homes have been shown to reduce feelings of isolation, stimulate the mind and build a positive atmosphere where residents feel valued and included. And, of course, group games encourage friendly competition, laughter and lively conversation, all of which contribute to improved quality of life.
For many residents, engaging in social events can offer cognitive stimulation, helping to keep minds active and alert. Even simple activities like marking numbers on a card or chatting with neighbours about a recent call from family can offer subtle but meaningful brain exercise. Researchers and care professionals highlight that opportunities for interaction are crucial in maintaining and enriching mental wellbeing in later life.
We’re keen to involve family and friends wherever possible, care home events that invite families to participate, like Monday’s Bingo Night, have tremendous value in bridge-building between generations. When relatives join residents for activities, both sides benefit from shared experiences that reinforce emotional bonds and create cherished memories. Family involvement also introduces fresh conversations and stories, helping to keep residents mentally engaged and emotionally connected to their lives beyond the care home environment.
For families, these events offer a chance not just to observe their loved ones but to actively join them in fun, light-hearted moments. Rather than visits limited to brief catch-ups, dedicated social evenings provide relaxed settings for meaningful conversation, laughter and togetherness, which can be comforting for relatives as well as residents.
Staff at Lakeside also experience the benefits of community-driven events. Organising and supporting activities allows team members to forge deeper relationships with residents, learning about their interests, past experiences and personalities. These connections enrich the daily care experience, making work more rewarding and strengthening the sense of family that Lakeside emphasises.
Many care professionals report that seeing residents smile and engage brings a deep sense of fulfilment and purpose. Events like Bingo Night are not merely “extra activities”; they are essential elements of a nurturing, person-centred approach that celebrates individuality and community within the home and ultimately improves staff retention, ensuring that surrounds remain safe and consistent.
As Lakeside continues to embed community activity into everyday life, events highlight the widespread benefits of shared experiences. They bring joy, spark conversation, build friendships and strengthen connections between residents, families and staff alike.
