How Creative Expression is Enriching Lives in Aged Care.
In aged care communities across TriCare, a delightful lifestyle activity is bringing colour, laughter, and connection to our residents’ lives: Paint and Sip sessions! These events, which combine guided painting with a relaxing beverage, are proving to be more than just a fun pastime, they’re a powerful tool for enhancing wellbeing.
Why Residents Love Paint and Sip
There’s something magical about putting brush to canvas. For aged care residents, Paint and Sip offers:
- Creative Freedom: Many residents rediscover their artistic side, often long forgotten or unexplored.
- Social Connection: These sessions foster camaraderie, laughter, and shared stories, helping to combat feelings of isolation.
- Relaxation and Joy: The gentle rhythm of painting paired with a sip of tea, juice, or wine creates a calming, joyful atmosphere.
The Benefits Go Beyond the Canvas
Paint and Sip isn’t just enjoyable, it’s beneficial. Here’s how:
1. Cognitive Engagement
Painting stimulates the brain, encouraging focus, decision-making, and memory recall. It’s especially valuable for residents with dementia or cognitive decline, offering a gentle way to stay mentally active.
2. Fine Motor Skills
Handling brushes and mixing colors helps maintain dexterity and hand-eye coordination, which are crucial for everyday tasks.
3. Emotional Wellbeing
Art is a form of self-expression. Residents often feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their creations, boosting self-esteem and mood.
4. Community Building
Group activities like Paint and Sip strengthen bonds among residents and staff, creating a more vibrant and connected community.
Real Stories, Real Smiles
In one aged care home, a resident named Margerie (not pictured) hadn’t painted since her school days. After her first Paint and Sip session, she said, “I didn’t know I could still do this. It feels wonderful.” Her painting now hangs proudly in her room, a daily reminder of her creativity and joy.
Making It Accessible
The beauty of Paint and Sip is its adaptability. Sessions can be tailored to suit different mobility levels, cognitive abilities, and personal preferences. Whether it’s watercolor or acrylic, tea or wine, the goal is the same: to create a space where residents feel inspired, relaxed, and connected.
Sunnybank Hills Aged Care Residence pictured above
In conclusion – Why do We all Love Paint & Sip So Much? Paint and Sip is more than an activity, it’s a celebration of life, creativity, and community. It’s a simple yet powerful way to enrich our residents’ lives, one brushstroke at a time.
Want to know more about TriCare’s extensive range of Lifestyle Activities in Aged Care click here.
