December traditions do far more than mark the passage of time, they create a sense of belonging. They help residents feel part of something bigger, spark memories, and soften feelings of loneliness that can intensify during the winter months. Most importantly, they remind us that no matter our backgrounds, people everywhere seek joy, connection, and meaning.

Hygge helps us to slow down, notice the little things, and create moments of connection that really matter - and those moments are at the heart of good activities work. Below are five ways Hygge can quietly transform the way you plan and deliver activities.

Christmas in a care home can feel like a juggling act — decorations, music, parties, and presents all competing for your attention. But what if the season didn’t have to be frantic?

Remembrance Day can hold deep meaning in a care home, offering residents a moment to reflect, remember, and connect. While it’s easy to assume the day no longer feels relevant, gentle, inclusive activities can bring comfort, conversation, and shared understanding for everyone, whether they lived through wartime or have different life experiences.

“Hydration isn’t just about water - it’s about flavour, fun, and sharing moments. For older people, staying hydrated can boost energy, focus, and wellbeing, yet it’s something we often overlook. We believe that food and drink are more than nourishment; they’re stories waiting to be shared. This Halloween, why not turn hydration into a creative, social experience with a ‘Potion Station’? Residents and families can mix colourful mocktails, invent spooky names, and share memori

When Activity Coordinators are given the time, tools, and support they need, the results speak for themselves: residents are more engaged, staff feel more connected, and the whole home benefits from a sense of purpose and joy.

"Why is it that in my role I never feel good enough and question what I’m doing? Maybe it’s because my co-workers think I do nothing and they really don’t understand my job. It’s hard to just brush it off."

When I began writing my blog series on the SPIES model of wellbeing (Social, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, and Spiritual), I thought...