10 Everyday Activities That Improve Mental Health

In aged care homes around the world, something surprising is helping reduce loneliness, ease anxiety, and spark joy robot dogs. Yes, you read that right.

As strange as it sounds, these lifelike, tail, wagging machines are becoming a powerful tool in supporting elderly people, especially those living with dementia or in isolation. But how exactly do they help? And are they effective?

Let’s take a walk through the world of robotic pet therapy.

Why They’re Used in Aged Care

Loneliness and isolation are two of the biggest challenges facing elderly people in care. Many also experience cognitive decline, anxiety, or difficulty communicating. Here’s where robotic dogs step in:

Benefits Include:

• Emotional comfort – Just holding a warm, fuzzy “dog” that responds can trigger joy and calm.
• Cognitive stimulation – Residents often talk to the dogs, tell them stories, or recall memories of past pets.
• Reduced anxiety – Especially for those with dementia, the predictable, gentle interaction can soothe agitation.
• Social connection – Robot dogs become conversation starters between residents, staff, and family.

In short,they bring life back into the room.

2.       Focus on Mental Health and Social Connection

Loneliness and mental health issues are increasingly recognized as key aspects of aged care. New initiatives are placing greater emphasis on community building, meaningful activities, and access to counselling services.

Several aged care homes are partnering with local schools, pet therapy groups, and arts organizations to bring life and connection into their facilities. One standout program in Canada even offers “intergenerational living,” where students live alongside seniors in exchange for volunteer work.

3.       “Old People’s Home for Teenagers” sparks real world programs

TV programs like Old People’s Home for Teenagers are inspiring schools and aged care homes across Australia to launch intergenerational initiatives. These programs pair teens with elderly residents to chat, share life stories, sing, dance, craft, and sometimes just laugh together. Participants report reduced loneliness, improved mental health, and genuine connection

In Adelaide, Year 10 students linked with aged care residents, forming friendships described as “lively, funny… and completely nutty.” These bonds strengthened both sides emotionally and physically.

4. 10 Everyday Activities That Improve Mental Health in Aged Care

Mental health in aged care often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves but it should. As we age, changes in lifestyle, health, and relationships can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. The good news? Simple, everyday activities can have a powerful impact on mental wellbeing.

Here are 10 practical, low, pressure activities that can brighten moods, sharpen minds, and create a sense of purpose for older adults in aged care settings:

1. Puzzles and Brain Games
   Crosswords, Sudoku, jigsaws, memory cards—these aren’t just time, fillers. They stimulate the brain, improve memory, and give residents a sense of accomplishment
2. Listening to Music
   Music taps into long-term memory and emotions. Whether it’s old classics, church hymns, or instrumental jazz, music can soothe anxiety, lift mood, and spark joy.
3. Gentle Exercise
   Simple stretching, chair yoga, or walking in the garden helps boost endorphins and energy while reducing symptoms of depression
4. Gardening or Plant Care
   Whether it’s potting herbs or watering indoor plants, caring for something green providesa sense of responsibility, routine, and calm.
5. Pet or Robot Therapy
   Interaction with pets, real or robotic—can reduce stress and encourage affection. Even 10 minutes with a furry friend can bring smiles and calmness.
6. Creative Arts & Crafts
   Painting, drawing, knitting, or even simple colouring can provide emotional release and creative expression, especially important for those with limited verbal communication.
7. Reminiscence Therapy
   Looking through photo albums, watching old movies, or sharing life stories can spark meaningful conversations and strengthen identity.
8. Tea & Talk Sessions
   Casual conversations in a safe space encourage residents to open up, share concerns, and feel heard.
9. Reading or storytelling
   Whether reading to themselves or listening to someone else, stories provide escape, stimulation, and comfort.
10. Helping Others
    Folding towels, helping set the table, or mentoring another resident can bring a sense of purpose and belonging.

Mental health support in aged care doesn’t always need to involve formal therapy or medication. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday moments, shared laughter over tea, planting a flower, solving a puzzle—that make the biggest difference.

If you’re a carer, family member, or aged care staff member, think about how you can weave these simple activities into your daily routines. It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing things that matter.