The power of social interaction in care homes - why activities matter

Resident engagement expert Emma Farino delves into the difference activities make between living and existing in care homes

For the last 20 years, I’ve worked across both care home and home care settings, and during that time I've seen first-hand the profound impact that social interaction can have on an individual living in care. Not only that, but I’ve also observed what happens when there is a lack of attention given to the importance of social interaction in care homes.  

It’s something that can’t be overstated. In fact, when people are left without meaningful connections and engagement, it doesn’t just affect their mood, it affects their mental, physical and emotional health too. 

For example, individuals living in care, without meaningful connections, may begin to withdraw from social activities due to a lack of interest or motivation. Over time, this social withdrawal can lead to isolation by confining themselves to their rooms or avoiding interaction with others altogether. A reluctance to participate in physical activities often follows, which can contribute to physical deconditioning, and an overall decline in health. 

In a care environment especially, it’s not uncommon for individuals to experience feelings of loneliness, isolation or disconnection from the world around them, even in busy care homes. This can lead to increased anxiety, depression, cognitive decline and even physical health issues. 

The key difference  

I've also witnessed the transformative difference that well-planned, thoughtful activities for those living in care can make – ones that are led by enthusiastic and committed care staff.  

The real difference is making activities matter to the individual. The key isn’t just providing ‘something for them to do’, it’s about offering something meaningful to do.  

In the past, activities in care environments were often delivered with a ‘one size fits all’ approach, where groups of individuals were all offered the same limited choices, such as watching a film or playing a group game. While these kinds of activities may have appealed to some, others may have felt disengaged or uninterested, leading to feelings of frustration or exclusion. This approach fails to consider the diverse personalities, preferences and abilities of every individual. 

Without a person-centred focus, some who live in care may choose to withdraw, avoid future activities, and miss out on meaningful interaction. 

Why meaningful activities matter 

When, however, activities are tailored to a person’s life history, interests and values, they become much more than just entertainment. They become a source of identity, purpose and connection. I’ve seen residents light up when they hear music from their youth, reminisce over shared stories from their hometown, or take part in familiar tasks they once loved, whether it’s gardening, joining a reading club, doing a quiz or playing a game of cards. 

These are the moments that build confidence; they create opportunities for conversation, laughter and even friendship. Perhaps most importantly, they help people feel seen, valued and understood. 

For families, witnessing their loved ones engage in meaningful, person-centred activities brings immense reassurance. It eases their worries, knowing that their relative is not only being cared for physically, but also that they are emotionally fulfilled and socially connected in their new home, and an active member of a community. It strengthens trust in the care environment and often deepens the relationship between families and care staff. 

Families may feel more included and respected when they see that their loved one’s unique personality, history and preferences are being honoured.

Why activities are often the missing piece of care provision 

In the care sector, we often focus on the practical things like medications, personal care, nutrition, which are of course all essential aspects of clinical care, but social wellbeing is just as important in providing a fully rounded, person-centred approach to care. And yet, it’s often the missing piece. 

Activities that encourage interaction, storytelling, shared interests and gentle physical movement aren’t just ‘nice to have’ - in a modern care setting, they are as important to the overall quality of care provision as any other aspect. They don’t just fill time, they add life, enjoyment and above all meaning to that time. It’s about living, not just existing. 

Click here to read more as Wellbeing Expert Jade Ellis delves into the concept of living, and not just existing, and why the role of wellbeing in care homes is vital.

In my own experience, I’ve spent time sat with individuals who had withdrawn almost completely, rarely speaking to anyone, hardly eating, disinterested in their surroundings and withdrawing from family and friends. Yes, the clinical aspects of care were being diligently covered, but you could see there was something profound missing in their quality of life. 

But all this changed, however, when residents in that situation and mindset were introduced to something familiar and personal, whether it was a wartime tune, a photo of a local football team, or a favourite activity.  

Over time, with activities and experiences such as these and many more like them, I could see people like this becoming more engaged, animated, smiling again. Especially if it involved a cup of tea, biscuits and a slice of cake! They weren’t just nice moments for the individual, they were serious breakthroughs, and it made my heart happy. Not just mine: families too would come in and join in the activities and events, making it a truly intergenerational, community experience. 

We’re all in care because we want to provide the best possible life for those we look after, and this is the kind of thing that really helps us achieve that goal. 

Moments like those are why it’s so vital we continue to innovate and improve how we deliver activities in care settings. It’s not about ticking boxes; it’s about making human connections and supporting the whole person. 

Living, not just existing 

Overall, social interaction is critical to mental, physical and emotional wellbeing and by bringing personalised, meaningful activities into care homes, like those available with the Oomph! Wellness and Activities Platform, individuals become more connected through shared experiences. This in turn can restore confidence and joy. It can make a care home feel like just that – a home. 

Creating these moments of engagement should be seen as a core part of care, not just an extra element you deliver to make it truly outstanding. Yes, activities like these are what make for outstanding, all-round care provision, but they should also be seen as the foundation of care, not just an add-on. 

In the end, care is about people, their stories, their passions, and their need to connect. It all matters.