Pumpkin Carving and Mystery Boxes at Monmouth Nursing Home
In the days leading up to Halloween, some residents helped to make decorations while others chose to carve pumpkins with support from team members
Gibraltar Nursing Home in Monmouthshire was recently filled with pumpkins, costumes and homemade treats, as residents and team members took part in a range of Halloween activities designed to spark creativity, connection and light-hearted fun.
In the days leading up to Halloween, residents who wished to take part helped make decorations using pipe cleaners, coloured card and other craft materials, while others chose to carve pumpkins with support from team members. Activities like these not only offer a chance for self-expression and creativity, but also support fine motor skills, concentration and social connection through shared tasks.
On the day of Halloween itself, the home’s Pillars Restaurant was transformed with decorations before afternoon tea was served. The celebrations included dressing up for those who wished to take part, followed by a ‘mystery box’ challenge, where residents and team members took turns reaching through cut-out holes to guess the items or foods hidden inside the box using only touch. The activity prompted plenty of laughter while also stimulating the senses and encouraging memory recall.
The kitchen team also baked and decorated Halloween-themed cupcakes, which were shared during the afternoon.
Home Manager Verity Walmsley says: ‘Halloween gives us another opportunity to bring people together, try something different and have a bit of fun. What matters is that every activity is a choice – people can join in or simply watch and enjoy the atmosphere.’
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