Activities at Karuna Care London
Karuna Care London is being developed as a home where daily life is purposeful, varied and emotionally satisfying, not just safe and orderly. As part of our preparation for opening, we have designed a structured programme of activities that will support physical health, cognitive stimulation, emotional wellbeing and social connection for the adults who will live with us. Although the home is not yet operational, this planned activity framework already forms an integral part of our model of care and will be introduced once registration and approvals are in place.
Our intention is that residents should feel that they are living a life, not simply occupying time. Routine will provide stability and predictability, while a range of meaningful activities will allow people to pursue interests, maintain skills and develop new ones at a pace that suits them.
A structured but flexible weekly rhythm
The weekly timetable is designed to give each day a clear shape, while leaving room for individual choice. Mornings are typically used for gentle, energising activities such as light exercise, walking, music or group conversation. Afternoons lend themselves to creative and social sessions, for example craft work, games, reminiscence or film afternoons. Evenings are quieter, focusing on relaxation, conversation or low key group activities for those who wish to join in.
A regular timetable provides a sense of security, particularly for people who may experience confusion, anxiety or memory difficulties. At the same time, no activity will be compulsory. Residents will be encouraged to participate, but they will retain the right to opt out, to request alternatives or simply to enjoy their own company when they need time alone.
Variety of activities for body, mind and social life
The programme is being planned to cover three broad areas of wellbeing.
- Physical activity
Examples include seated or standing exercise, stretching, gentle movement to music and short walks in the garden or local area, subject to individual ability and risk assessment. These activities are intended to support balance, circulation and general physical health, and to offer a positive sense of achievement. - Cognitive and creative stimulation
Residents will be offered activities such as quizzes, word games, puzzles, arts and crafts, baking sessions, simple gardening tasks and reminiscence work. These can help maintain memory, concentration and fine motor skills, while also providing enjoyment and a focus for conversation. - Social and community engagement
Group activities in the lounge or garden will help residents get to know one another and build informal friendships. Shared meals, small celebrations, discussion groups and occasional outings will be used to create a sense of community. For those who prefer quieter contact, one to one time with staff will be available for reading, letter writing, conversation or support with personal interests.
The exact content of the timetable will be shaped by the interests and preferences of the people who live in the home. Residents will be invited to say what they enjoy, what they would like to try and what they would rather avoid, and the programme will be adjusted accordingly.
Individualisation and accessibility
All activities will be adapted so that people with different abilities can participate comfortably. For example, exercise can be done entirely seated, partly supported or fully standing depending on strength and balance. Large print materials and clear visual aids will be used where needed. Staff will provide individual assistance so that residents who have difficulty with vision, hearing, dexterity or understanding can still take part in a way that feels safe and dignified.
Where group sessions are not suitable or welcome for a particular person, staff can offer parallel one to one activities, such as a quiet walk, a cup of tea and conversation, time spent listening to music, or support with a hobby or personal project. The aim is not to force anyone into social situations, but to ensure that every resident has access to meaningful occupation and human contact in a way that suits their personality and needs.
Supporting emotional wellbeing and identity
Activities are not being treated as “entertainment” added on to care, but as a core part of how care is delivered. Time will be set aside for residents to talk about their lives, their memories and their feelings, either within groups or with a key worker. Reminiscence work, life story activities and simple choices about how to spend the day all help to preserve a sense of identity and continuity, particularly for those who are living with cognitive impairment.
Special attention will be given to cultural and religious preferences. Where residents wish to observe particular festivals, practices or days of significance, activities and celebrations will be planned accordingly. This may include specific foods, music, decoration or opportunities for worship or reflection, in line with individual beliefs and wishes.
Regulatory status
Karuna Care London is currently progressing through registration with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and the home is not yet open to residents. The activities described on this page form part of our proposed model of support and will be implemented once CQC registration and all necessary approvals have been granted.