The festive season is a special time for everyone, especially for older adults living in care homes. At Derwent Lodge Care Home, we believe that Christmas should be a time of joy, connection, and cherished memories. With thoughtful planning, engaging activities, and plenty of festive spirit, we make sure our residents enjoy a Christmas that feels warm, meaningful, and truly like being at home.
Whether you’re a family member wondering what to expect, or someone considering care at Derwent Lodge in Billingshurst, this guide answers common questions about Christmas in a care home and highlights how we bring the season to life.
What Does Christmas Look Like in a Care Home?
Christmas at a care home combines familiar traditions with opportunities to form new memories. Communal areas are decorated with lights, wreaths and handcrafted ornaments, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Residents often join in with decorating, arts and crafts, and other themed activities that help boost spirits throughout the season.
At Derwent Lodge, we regularly host seasonal celebrations, themed events, and visits from local groups and entertainers as part of the wider activity programme.
How Do We Prepare for the Festive Season?
Decorations & Activities
Residents are encouraged to take part in decorating common areas and personal spaces, making the home feel festive well before Christmas Day. Our arts and crafts sessions produce beautiful handmade cards and ornaments which can become treasured keepsakes for families.
Festive Activities
From carol singing and baking sessions to gentle exercise with a Christmas twist, our activity schedule keeps the season fun and varied. We tailor activities so they suit all abilities and preferences.
Visiting at Christmas
One of the most common questions families ask is “Can I visit on Christmas Day?”
Most care homes, including Derwent Lodge, welcome visits from family and friends throughout the festive period. Whether you choose to spend the day together, share a meal, or pop in for a short visit, staff will support arrangements that make your time together memorable.
For more details on visiting arrangements and how we support family time during the holidays, visit our Life at Derwent Lodge page.
Celebrating Christmas Day
Christmas Day is usually centred around a traditional festive lunch with all the trimmings. At Derwent Lodge, our kitchen team prepares nutritious and delicious meals, offering residents the option to dine communally or enjoy private moments with loved ones.
After lunch, there are opportunities for relaxed entertainment, quizzes, musical performances, or quiet reflection depending on each resident’s preference. Our goal is to ensure the day feels personal and joyful for everyone.
Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
Christmas can bring mixed emotions, especially for those spending the season away from their long-held traditions. At Derwent Lodge, our carers are attentive to emotional wellbeing, offering one-to-one support, listening spaces, and gentle activities that help residents express memories and share stories.
Strong communication with families is also essential during this time. We provide updates about Christmas plans, festive menus, and activities so you can feel confident and connected.
Looking Ahead to the New Year
The festive season doesn’t end on Christmas Day. New Year’s occasions at a care home offer a quieter chance to reflect and celebrate the year ahead. Whether it’s a small gathering with music and sparkling juice or crafting vision boards for 2026, the festive spirit continues to foster connection and optimism.
Why Choose Derwent Lodge This Christmas
At Derwent Lodge Care Home, we provide:
- Person-centred care tailored to each resident’s needs
- A vibrant community with meaningful activities all year round
- Warm, festive celebrations that bring joy and connection
If you’d like to discover more about life at Derwent Lodge or see how we celebrate special occasions like Christmas, we’d love to welcome you for a visit.
Arrange a Tour and see for yourself what makes Derwent Lodge feel like home.
Download our free brochure for more information about our services, care programmes and festive activities.
Have questions about Christmas celebrations or visiting arrangements? Contact our friendly team today and we’ll be happy to help.
