Edinburgh care homes celebrate arty open day

Home news

Jul 12, 2019

There were celebrations all round when the teams at three Edinburgh care homes welcomed the local community in for a day of art-themed fun and games.

The teams at Murrayside, Lauder Lodge and Cairdean House were joined by local people for Care Home Open Day, a countrywide initiative set up to develop lasting relationships between care homes and local communities, and to dispel common myths about care home life.   

This year’s theme celebrated the role of arts within care, which is important in encouraging residents’ self-expression, and helps to create meaningful experiences.

Residents and visitors had the opportunity to polish their artistic skills during a special pottery and flower arranging session at Murrayside, and arts and crafts workshop at Cairdean House and Lauder Lodge.

There was also live entertainment at all three homes, including Scott Neil at Cairdean House, who got everyone in the party spirit. There was fun for all the family with Gordon’s Magic and Puppet show at Lauder Lodge, while singer and entertainer, Sarah Laing at Murrayside, got everyone’s toes tapping.

To top off the day, guests were treated to freshly made ice cream at Cairdean House. 

As part of a nationwide competition for all Care UK homes, Murrayside, Lauder Lodge and Cairdean House also developed works of art in the lead up to the open day, which were showcased at the event.

Michelle Reid, home manager at Murrayside, said:“Creative activities are an important part of life for people in care, whether it’s painting to help enhance hand-eye coordination, or simply reminiscing by putting on some music – the arts are a vital part of life here at Murrayside.”