How to Motivate Residents to Participate in Activities

By Monica B., CEO of FUN at Heyday Activities & Events

6 Meaningful Ways to Boost Engagement and Build Community

One of the most rewarding (and sometimes most challenging) parts of planning activities in senior living communities is motivating residents to actually show up and join in.

At Heyday Activities & Events, we believe participation isn’t about “filling the calendar”, it’s about building meaningful connections, restoring purpose, and sparking joy. Whether you're an Activity Coordinator, Life Enrichment Director, or a caregiver looking for creative ways to engage your community, these six tips will help bring more life and energy into your programs.

1. Make It Personal

One-size-fits-all rarely works. Take the time to learn each resident’s story, interests, and history. Use short surveys, family input, or casual conversations to gather clues. Did someone used to paint, garden, or teach dance? Build programs around their past passions. When activities feel personal, residents feel seen and are more likely to show up.

2. Create a Culture of Invitation

Instead of only relying on flyers or loudspeaker announcements, make engagement personal. Knock on doors. Call residents by name. Ask, “Would you like to join us?” Make it feel like an invitation to a special event, not just another group activity. Staff enthusiasm is contagious—when you light up about an event, others will follow.

3. Offer Choice and Control

Residents thrive when they feel in control of their day. Offer options: two crafts to choose from, flexible time slots, or even a monthly resident vote on upcoming events. When residents help shape the calendar, they’re more likely to participate because it reflects their voice.

4. Mix Familiarity with Novelty

Balance classic favorites with something fresh. Bingo and movie nights are great—but throw in a new twist: themed Bingo, interactive trivia, or a local guest speaker. Rotate activity types: physical, sensory, intellectual, creative, and social. Keep it exciting without overwhelming.

5. Celebrate Participation (Not Perfection)

Some residents may hesitate because they fear they "can’t keep up" or “aren’t good at that.” Reinforce that showing up is the win! Create a no-pressure atmosphere. Celebrate small victories. Applaud courage. You’re not just building a program, you’re building confidence.

6. Strengthen Your Staff-Resident Connection

The more familiar residents feel with the activity staff, the more likely they’ll join in. Consistency matters. Have team members spend time with residents outside of activity hours—this builds trust and rapport. Residents don’t just attend activities; they attend because you invited them.

The Heyday Effect: Engagement That Feels Like Home

When activities are thoughtfully designed and personally delivered, they transform into something more than just recreation, they become the heartbeat of the community. At Heyday, we help senior living teams turn participation into purpose and daily routines into joyful rituals.

Ready to elevate your community's engagement? Let’s talk about how Heyday can support your team with training, companions, or signature experiences. Connect with us here