Residents at Woodcroft Care Home in Cardiff, have recently been enjoying a new activity, a silent disco!
The innovative activity was introduced as a way of offering residents something different, creating opportunities to socialise and have fun.
Using wireless headphones, residents can choose from different music channels. During one recent session, one channel played ABBA while another played songs by Vera Lynn.
Some residents have been keen to get up and show off their dance moves, while others have preferred to sit comfortably and sing along. Colleagues often find themselves smiling as they walk into a room to see residents wearing headphones, happily singing or dancing to music only they can hear. Colleagues have been joining in too, dancing and singing alongside residents to create a fun and inclusive atmosphere.
The use of headphones means residents can fully enjoy the experience without creating excessive noise or disrupting others who may prefer a quieter environment. This is particularly important in a care setting, where residents have a range of individual needs.
Organising the silent disco activity has required a strong team effort. Residents need support putting on their headphones and colleagues have to carefully consider individual comfort, such as hearing aids and appropriate sound levels to ensure each resident has a safe and enjoyable experience.
One particularly special example is John, a resident who doesn’t often take part in organised activities and generally prefers to keep to himself. But John thoroughly enjoys the silent discos, demonstrating the positive experiences that can be created within a care-home environment.
Having already hosted two successful silent discos, the Woodcroft team are planning many more.
Helen Louise Lewis, Home Manager at Woodcroft Care Home, said: “Our silent discos have quickly become a real highlight at Woodcroft. It’s wonderful to see residents laughing, singing, dancing and reminiscing. Everyone has been able to take part in their own way, making it a truly person-centred activity. The response from residents, families and colleagues has been fantastic, and it’s shown us the value of trying new and innovative ways to bring residents together and support wellbeing.”