Penicuik Care Home Celebrates Burns Day With Creative Activities

Residents at Aaron House, a grand converted mansion in the heart of Penicuik, Edinburgh, took part in a series of engaging and health-promoting activities in celebration of Burns Day.

These activities not only honoured the famous Scottish poet Rabbie Burns but also played a significant role in enhancing the physical and mental wellbeing of the residents.

The residents have been deeply involved in creating paper tartans, a craft that involves weaving various colours together to form traditional Scottish patterns. This activity, particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis or muscle pains, improves dexterity and fine motor skills. The meticulous process of weaving aids in hand-eye coordination and colour recognition, offering therapeutic benefits to those engaging in the craft.

In a grand tribute to Rabbie Burns, residents have collaboratively created a giant picture of the celebrated poet. This masterpiece, a culmination of individual efforts in painting, drawing, and colouring, symbolises the essence of companionship and sociability – key elements in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our residents. Such group activities foster a sense of community, encouraging social interaction and the sharing of creative ideas.

Embracing both tradition and modernity, the residents have also ventured into creating their own ‘mash-ups’ of classic Rabbie Burns poetry. This innovative approach to literature not only stimulates cognitive functions but also encourages lifelong learning and cultural engagement.

Home manager Stephen Van-Putten said:  “This activity demonstrates our residents’ ability to learn something new and embrace modern culture, all while paying homage to our rich Scottish heritage.”