Joy and Creativity at Dene: Painting, Games, and a Warm Welcome to Ben

At Dene Place, we believe that life should be filled with colour, laughter, and meaningful moments, no matter your age. Our commitment to enriching the lives of our residents extends well beyond providing exceptional care—it’s about creating a vibrant community where everyone can thrive, connect, and enjoy new experiences every day.

This summer, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on two much-loved activities—painting and games such as Snakes and Ladders—which have brought a fresh wave of excitement and engagement to our home. We’re also thrilled to introduce Ben, our new Activities Coordinator, whose passion and creativity are already making a wonderful difference.

The Power of Painting: Creativity for All

Painting has always been a popular pastime at Dene Place, and for good reason. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or picking up a brush for the first time, painting offers a gentle, accessible way to express yourself, relax, and explore your imagination.

Under Ben’s guidance, our art sessions have become a highlight of the weekly calendar. Residents gather in our sunny activities room, where tables are set with canvases, paints, and an inspiring array of brushes and sponges. There’s a sense of anticipation as everyone chooses their colours and starts to bring their ideas to life.

Ben encourages everyone to paint at their own pace, offering gentle guidance and plenty of encouragement. “There’s no right or wrong in art,” he reminds us. “It’s about enjoying the process and expressing what’s inside.”

Some residents love to paint landscapes, drawing inspiration from the beautiful gardens at Dene Place. Others prefer abstract patterns, flowers, or even portraits of their loved ones. No matter the subject, each painting tells a unique story and is celebrated for its individuality.

The benefits go beyond the finished artwork. Painting is known to boost mood, stimulate memory, and improve dexterity. For many, it’s also a chance to reminisce about past hobbies or discover a new passion. Best of all, the sessions are filled with friendly chatter, laughter, and a shared sense of achievement.

Games Galore: Snakes and Ladders and More

Games have a special place in the heart of Dene Place. They bring people together, spark friendly competition, and provide hours of entertainment. One of our current favourites is the classic board game, Snakes and Ladders.

Snakes and Ladders is wonderfully simple yet endlessly engaging. Residents gather around the table, dice in hand, eager to see who will be first to reach the top of the board. The ups and downs of the game—climbing ladders and sliding down snakes—always lead to plenty of laughter and good-natured teasing.

Ben has introduced some creative twists to the game, such as themed boards and team play, making it accessible for everyone. For residents with limited mobility, larger dice and boards ensure everyone can join in the fun.

But it’s not just about Snakes and Ladders. Our games afternoons also feature dominoes, bingo, cards, and even the occasional quiz. These sessions are about more than winning—they’re about socialising, keeping minds sharp, and enjoying each other’s company.

Meet Ben: Our New Activities Coordinator

We’re delighted to welcome Ben to the Dene Place family as our new Activities Coordinator. With a background in community arts and a genuine passion for working with older adults, Ben brings fresh ideas, boundless enthusiasm, and a caring approach to every session.

Ben believes that activities should be inclusive, engaging, and tailored to the interests of each resident. He takes time to get to know everyone, learning about their hobbies, favourite pastimes, and even the games they played as children.

“I want everyone to feel that there’s something here for them,” Ben says. “Whether it’s painting, playing games, gardening, or simply having a chat over a cup of tea, my goal is to make every day enjoyable and meaningful.”

Since joining us, Ben has already made a positive impact. Residents have commented on his friendly manner, creative ideas, and the way he encourages everyone to get involved—whether they’re outgoing or a little shy.

The Importance of Activities in Care Homes

At Dene Place, we understand that meaningful activities are essential for wellbeing. They help residents stay active, maintain their independence, and feel part of a community. Activities like painting and games can:

• Boost mood and reduce feelings of isolation

• Enhance cognitive function and memory

• Improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills

• Encourage social interaction and friendship

• Provide a sense of purpose and achievement

We’re committed to offering a varied and stimulating activities programme, and Ben is already planning new sessions based on residents’ feedback and suggestions. From craft workshops and music afternoons to gentle exercise and reminiscence groups, there’s always something to look forward to at Dene Place.

Resident Reflections

Our residents have embraced the new activities with enthusiasm. Margaret, who hadn’t painted since her school days, says, “I never thought I’d enjoy painting so much again. Ben makes it fun and relaxing, and I love seeing what everyone creates.”

John, a fan of Snakes and Ladders, adds, “It’s not about winning—it’s about having a laugh together. The games bring back memories of playing with my grandchildren.”

Family members have also noticed the positive effects. One daughter shared, “Mum is always telling me about the art she’s done and the games she’s played. She’s made new friends and is so much happier.”

Looking Ahead: New Ideas and Opportunities

With Ben at the helm, we’re excited about the future of activities at Dene Place. He’s already planning themed painting sessions, intergenerational games afternoons with local schoolchildren, and even a Dene Place Art Exhibition to showcase residents’ work.

We’re also exploring outdoor activities for the summer months, including garden games, nature walks, and painting sessions in our lovely grounds. Ben is keen to involve residents in planning the activities calendar, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.

Join Us at Dene Place

If you’d like to learn more about life at Dene Place, or if you have ideas for activities or would like to volunteer, please get in touch. We’re proud to be a home where creativity, friendship, and fun are at the heart of every day.

With Ben’s warm welcome and the enthusiasm of our residents, the future at Dene Place is brighter—and more colourful—than ever.

Discover more about our activities and community by visiting our website or contacting us directly. We look forward to welcoming you to Dene Place, where every day is an opportunity to create, connect, and celebrate life.