Pie & a Pint and Cheese & Wine Clubs at Elderslie Care Home: A Recipe for Connection and Wellbeing

Elderslie Care Home’s residents have found a winning formula for enjoyment and wellbeing through their monthly Pie and a Pint and Cheese and Wine Clubs. These gatherings, organized as part of the home’s B Happie Initiative, have quickly become a favourite among residents, providing an opportunity for socialisation, relaxation, and indulgence in delicious food and drink.

The aim of these events aligns with two central pillars of the B Happie Initiative: Connected and Relaxed.

In the Pie and Pint and Cheese and Wine Clubs, residents are not only treated to their favourite pies and pints or artisanal cheeses and fine wines, but they’re also encouraged to build meaningful connections with one another, creating a sense of belonging and shared enjoyment. In care home settings, fostering these relationships has been shown to be incredibly beneficial to both mental and emotional wellbeing, combatting isolation and encouraging a positive, engaged lifestyle.

At last month’s Cheese and Wine Club, Robert, a regular attendee, captured the spirit of the event, saying, “This is a lovely wee treat.”

Similarly, Rosemary was delighted with the wine selection, commenting, “That’s a lovely wine, I will enjoy the rest of that bottle later.” And Jack, ever the joker, chimed in with his cheeky humour, saying, “The only thing that would make this better is a cigarette!” These candid remarks highlight how much residents enjoy these simple pleasures, while also feeling a sense of inclusion and connection.

For older adults in residential care, socialising isn’t just a fun pastime—it’s essential for maintaining cognitive function, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall wellbeing. Elderslie Care Home’s commitment to offering regular, relaxed social events like the Pie and a Pint and Cheese and Wine Clubs ensures that residents have a regular opportunity to interact with their peers in a casual, friendly setting. The benefits extend beyond the fun; such gatherings help to cultivate friendships, boost mood, and strengthen the emotional resilience of those involved. The gatherings have been a huge success, proving the power of social interaction in creating a supportive and joyful community.