Interactive Health
Enhancing Health and Well-Being through Creative Engagement
In today’s world, care is evolving. At Caremark Spelthorne & Runnymede, we believe that the integration of art, culture, and creativity into health care can profoundly improve the quality of life for our clients. Our approach to creative health goes beyond traditional care practices by engaging clients in activities that stimulate both their minds and bodies, ensuring they live independently and joyfully in their own homes.
“Creativity is not an additional extra, it is essential for being well and staying well”
Mah Rana, Co-Director, Lived Experience Network,
Leadership and Strategy Roundtable
What Is Creative Health?
Creative health is the practice of using creative activities—whether through visual and performing arts, crafts, literature, or even gardening—as a means to promote mental and physical well-being (https://ncch.org.uk/). It involves embracing innovative methods in health and social care, making services more engaging integrated with person-centred care. This holistic approach resonates with the core values we uphold at Caremark:
• Delivering the highest standards of professional care
• Encouraging independence and safety
• Respecting dignity and freedom of choice
Celebrating Cultural Traditions and Beliefs
Walk for Life
We started with the Physical activities during spring. Each Wednesday clients were supported by the carers to enjoy a walk on Egham high street. There were plenty of rests during the walk and our destination was the local church St. John , attending the morning service and free lunch at the church’s community centre. This was very popular with the clients during summer.
Diwali: A Festival of Lights and Togetherness
In 2024, our Diwali celebrations went beyond decorations and festivities. We sent beautifully decorated Diwali Diya’s to our clients, and our carer assistants embraced the spirit of the festival by donning traditional attire. They brought the story of Sita’s abduction and Ram’s chivalry to life— during their visits making it an event as engaging as a thrilling Netflix series. In a heart warming moment, a live-in carer participated in Karrwa Chaut’s fasting, observed by married women praying for their husbands’ long lives. With henna adorning her hands and special sweets prepared, the event celebrated not just tradition, but the unity and diversity of our team and the clients.
Christmas: Creativity on Display
Our “Elf on the Shelf” competition transformed the holiday season into a time of creativity and laughter. Both clients and carers contributed their imaginative ideas, capturing mischievous moments of our little elves. The competition not only sparked a playful competitive spirit but also demonstrated the therapeutic power of art and creativity in building connections and spreading the festive season’s joy.
Interactive Health in Action
Valentine’s Day: Rekindling Love Through Art
Valentine’s Day at Caremark was a heart warming celebration of love and creativity. Clients and carers joined forces in a craft competition where every client designed their own Valentine card. One particularly moving moment came from a client with dementia who used simple stick figures to express his love for his wife. This tender expression of emotion reminded us that every act of creativity has the power to convey deep, heartfelt sentiments. The best card was printed professionally and sent to all the clients. We couldn’t choose one as they were all beautifully done so we printed all the cards on the next page. “ Everyone was a winner”
Easter and the Promise of New Beginnings
Looking forward, our Easter initiative embraces the theme of new beginnings. Clients will receive pots and seeds to start their very own garden projects, with carers offering support along the way. As these plants grow and eventually transform into a beautiful flowers , they symbolize the continual blossoming of life and hope—a celebration of nature’s rhythm and the nurturing power of care.
Ascot You: A Day of Elegance and Celebration
Our “Ascot You” party invites clients to dress in their Sunday best and enjoy a sophisticated afternoon of Crème tea. This elegant gathering is not only a nod to tradition but also a chance to celebrate individuality and community spirit, reinforcing that every day offers an opportunity to shine and be your best.
The Impact of Creative Engagement
At Caremark, our calendar of interactive engagements is more than just a schedule of events—it is a testament to our commitment to enhancing the well-being of our clients. By integrating creative activities into our care services, we foster a sense of independence, belonging, and joy. These initiatives help stimulate mental and physical well-being, transforming everyday life into a series of uplifting experiences.
visit our Facebook page(https://www.facebook.com/caremarkspelthorneandRunnymede/) to learn more about our creative health initiatives and how we continue to support and inspire our community. At Caremark, every event is a celebration of life—a creative journey that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.
