New ‘Happiness Programme’ pilot launches as care home puts community at the centre of wellbeing
A new pilot programme focused on wellbeing for care home residents has been launched as part of a community-led approach in Lancashire.
ExCo
The programme, being piloted at Preston Glades Care Home in Preston, uses interactive light technology to project games and activities onto tables, floors and walls, allowing residents to engage through movement, touch and play. Activities include everything from music and quizzes to painting and movement-based games, designed to support cognitive, physical and social wellbeing. It’s part of a wider shift towards more community-connected, person-led experiences.
In practice, the technology is being used to bring people together with local school groups, families and community visitors joining residents in shared activities. Children can take part in interactive games alongside residents, creating natural opportunities for conversation, laughter and connection across generations.
The programme is also being used more flexibly throughout the day. Rather than set activity times, team members are introducing it in lounges, bedrooms and shared spaces to suit individual preferences, whether that’s a one-to-one moment or a group session before heading out into the community.
Registered Manager Tracey Yates said: “The Happiness Programme gives us another way to connect, particularly for people who may not engage in more traditional activities. The real impact though comes from how it brings people together in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.”
Alongside the programme, homes are continuing to support residents to take part in everyday community life, from local outings in the home’s minibus to welcoming visitors into the home. The combination of technology and real-life connection is helping to create more meaningful, shared experiences.
Early feedback from the pilot shows increased engagement, particularly among residents who had previously found it difficult to take part in group activities. The learning from the pilot will now be used to shape how the approach is developed more widely across the care home group.