Activities at the Áras
Our activities co-ordinator Katie ensures there is always plenty to do at the Áras! There is live music every Wednesday, as well as bingo, card tournaments, knitting circle, concerts, pet therapy and many other activities every week.
Other events include the summer Barbecue, regular shows and parties, residents outings and the Spiddal St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Last year we won the funniest float trophy! You can get more information on these by playing the activities video below.
Day to day life at the Áras
Day to day living at Áras Chois Fharraige Nursing Home is all about the resident, and person centred care. We provide an extensive activity programme to suit people’s needs.
Residents may choose to participate or not in any social program or event.
The activities coordinator ensures there is an interesting and varied choice. We try to take personal interests and hobbies into consideration so any information a resident can provide about their background, likes and dislikes will assist us in activities planning.
Pet therapy
The Home keeps pygmy goats, chickens, ducks and has one of the biggest aquariums in the county. Pet therapy dogs visit the centre every week. Animal Madness bring more exotic animals into the Home during the summer, such as iguanas, eagles and even snakes!!
The Áras was one of the first nursing homes in Ireland to have realised the benefits of pet therapy on physical and mental health. We have also introduced plant therapy: each resident is encouraged to pot a plant which they then tend to and nurture.
Special events
Many of our activities help to form friendships with other residents and staff and to learn new things whilst enjoying time with others.
We place a big emphasis on involving families, friends, volunteers and local community groups as much as possible in what we do.
An Stíl Mar a Bhí
An Stíl Mar A Bhí are a group of local singers, dancers, musicians, poets and storytellers who come together two or three times a year to perform at the Áras. Their performances celebrate all things Gaelach and are a truly wonderful occasion in the home.
St Patrick's Day
Like all other celebrations, St. Patricks Day is a great reason to celebrate in the Áras! This event gives immense pleasure to our residents, and an opportunity to celebrate our very special day whilst reminiscing about such occassions in the days gone by.
Galway Races
To celebrate the Galway Races,
residents, family, friends and staff
come together in the Áras each year to enjoy ‘An Afternoon at
the Races’, with special food, a sponsored ‘flutter’ and best-dressed competitions laid on for the residents.
Therapeutic care programmes, reminiscence therapy and pet therapy
Areas to quietly read a book or magazine, or chat on the phone or skype
Card games, bingo or quizzes, movie evenings and music sessions
Assistance to residents reading, writing letters or cards
Newspapers, books, magazines, flat screen TVs in bedrooms
Refreshments if residents want to entertain friends/family in the home
Áras Chois Fharraige
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