Aged care residents brushing up the halls of their home

Parkinson aged care residents have picked up paintbrush and canvas in a bid to add to the home’s decor with their own custom pieces.  

For many of the Bolton Clarke Carrington aged care residents, art has always been a part of their lives and is now providing an enjoyable experience around the home.

Resident Shirley says she picked up the paintbrush in her younger years and has always revisited the hobby at different stages of her life.

“I have always done art when I was young – it was painting that I mostly used to do,” Shirley said.

“I enjoy painting a bit of everything, I just picked it up along the way and I find it’s a fantastic way to express myself.

“It’s really nice to have the support of the team and opportunities to enjoy being with people and doing things to have fun.”

Care Champion Barbara says part of her role is to ensure the rest of the team understand their residents’ interests and create personalised activities, like these art sessions.

“We have been focusing a lot on the arts because even though some residents haven’t previously had an interest in things like painting, it’s a great way to use their fine motor skills and encourage creativity,” Barbara said.

“Quite a lot of the residents have enjoyed mindful colouring as well because it’s something that gives them that quiet time.

“We have been replacing the existing artwork around the home with the residents’ work and it’s fantastic for family and friends to see their wonderful creations.

“Residents are also enjoying seeing their finished pieces up on the wall and the goal is to have nothing but resident art work on display!”