Dementia Activities in Care Homes: Supporting Wellbeing at Every Stage

At Rubislaw Park Care Home in Aberdeen, we are proud to provide comprehensive dementia care for older adults living with the condition. Our approach focuses on helping residents live a happy and meaningful life, regardless of their cognitive ability or stage of dementia.

Engaging in purposeful activities plays an important role in reducing symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, frustration and low mood. With the support of our experienced dementia care team, residents in both the early and later stages of dementia are encouraged to take part in daily activities that stimulate the mind, support emotional wellbeing and promote social connection.

Below are some of the dementia-friendly activities our residents enjoy.

Creating Memory Boxes

Dementia often affects short-term memory more than long-term memory. Many people living with dementia can vividly recall moments from decades ago, even if they struggle to remember recent events.

Creating a memory box is a meaningful and stimulating activity. Residents are encouraged to fill a keepsake box with photographs, letters and personal items that reflect important moments in their lives. Family members are welcome to contribute items if needed.

These boxes often spark conversation and storytelling, allowing residents to revisit cherished memories and celebrate their achievements. It is a gentle and comforting way to support identity and self-expression.

Helping Around the Home

Simple household tasks can provide reassurance and familiarity. Activities such as folding towels or washing plastic dishes help residents feel useful and involved in everyday routines.

These tasks are calming, purposeful and often instinctive. By taking part in familiar activities, residents can feel more relaxed and connected to their past roles and experiences.

Gardening

Spending time outdoors offers significant benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. Gardening provides a sense of independence and responsibility, whether residents are planting flowers, watering plants or simply enjoying the surroundings.

Exposure to natural light and fresh air supports overall health, while tending to plants brings a sense of achievement. Residents enjoy seeing their efforts come to life throughout the seasons.

Playing Games

Board games encourage social interaction and gentle cognitive stimulation. Activities such as dominoes, jigsaw puzzles, Scrabble and chess help maintain problem-solving skills while providing enjoyment in a relaxed setting.

Games also bring residents together, strengthening friendships and creating shared moments of laughter.

Reading and Storytelling

Reading can be a beneficial and calming activity, depending on the stage of dementia. Some residents enjoy reading books, newspapers or magazines independently, while others prefer being read to by staff.

Listening to stories allows residents to use their imagination and may trigger familiar memories. Even a short reading session can provide meaningful mental engagement.

Getting Out and About

Remaining active is important at every stage of dementia. Residents are encouraged to spend time outdoors, whether strolling through the gardens or enjoying local outings in the Aberdeen area.

Excursions may include visits to parks, cafés or community spaces. These experiences help residents feel part of the wider community and can significantly enhance overall wellbeing. Family members are always welcome to join when possible.

Dancing

Dancing combines movement, music and social interaction. It encourages gentle physical activity while stimulating cognitive function through rhythm and repetition.

For many residents, certain songs evoke memories from earlier life, creating joyful and emotional moments. Dancing in groups or pairs provides both physical benefits and valuable social engagement.

Arts and Crafts

Creative sessions such as painting, drawing, flower arranging and modelling offer opportunities for self-expression. Arts and crafts stimulate the senses through touch, colour and texture, while encouraging imagination.

Residents often display their creations in their rooms or share them with loved ones. Our team provides support where needed but encourages as much independence and creative freedom as possible.

Music and Singing

Music has a powerful effect on memory and emotion. Live performances from singers, choirs and musicians are always warmly received. Many residents enjoy singing along to familiar songs, which can elevate mood and encourage communication.

We are also proud to host our own Edelweiss Choir, led by our Dementia Unit Team Leader. The group meets weekly and provides a wonderful opportunity for residents to come together through music.

Music can improve attention, support communication and provide valuable sensory stimulation for those living with dementia.

Supporting Meaningful Living at Rubislaw Park

Our inclusive activities programme is designed to enhance overall wellbeing and quality of life. Living with dementia should not prevent someone from enjoying meaningful experiences, forming connections or creating new memories.

At Rubislaw Park Care Home, we encourage residents to spend quality time with family, take part in engaging activities and continue enjoying the simple pleasures of daily life. Through personalised care plans and a compassionate team, we strive to support every resident with dignity and understanding.

If you are looking for a residential care home in Aberdeen for a loved one living with dementia, please contact our friendly team to learn more about the care and support available at Rubislaw Park Care Home.

This blog post was updated on March 5th, 2026