Activities and events for retirement homes part 1

Australia Day and retirement home residents

Australia Day, celebrated on 26 January since 1994, is a day dedicated to what makes our continent great.

It is designed to bring all the people from all over the Nation together to celebrate how far the country has come since its early days. There are a number of different ways residents in nursing homes in Australia can commemorate this annual event.

Decorations

A few days before the official day, residents can help decorate the dining hall to celebrate Australia Day. By making, or colouring, Australian flags that can then be hung up around the room, it will soon take on a festive air. Other ideas designed to include residents in the decorating include colouring and decorating pictures of koalas, beach scenes and famous landmarks of the country.  Coloured bunting can also be hung up in the dining area.

Serve a Traditional Australian Tea

Lamingtons and Anzac biscuits are foods that many residents of retirement homes in Australia probably remember from their childhoods. By starting off the most patriotic day of the year with these traditional foods, many residents will be able to reflect fondly on their childhoods as well as what their country means to them.

Bring in a Musical Guest

Most people love music and traditional Australian music can bring back many memories. There is no better way to celebrate Australia Day by bringing in a musical guest who can entertain the residents with their version of the most loved songs in the country. Another idea is to play a CD of this music for the residents to enjoy. In either case, residents will likely find themselves dancing and swaying along to their favourite songs that celebrate their beloved country of Australia.

Dress Up For the Part

The staff of the retirement home can dress up in a way that celebrates the varied cultures that make up the country. They can encourage the residents to do the same and hold a parade, if desired. The musical guest can also be encouraged to dress for the part as well.

Australia Day provides a holiday dedicated to enjoying and celebrating all that is Australian. Encouraging residents of retirement homes to participate adds a great deal to their enjoyment of the day.