The Joy of Living Programme
The Joy of Living Programme
At Rathkeevan Nursing Home we believe that every day should bring purpose, connection and joy.
Our Joy of Living Activities Programme, designed by Mary Hourigan, was introduced in March 2025 specifically for our residents and is tailored to meet their needs in both group and individual settings.
At the heart of the programme is a commitment to helping residents reach their full potential, while maintaining autonomy and fostering a sense of empowerment in everyday life. We believe that providing opportunities for residents to express their preferences, make decisions and participate actively in daily life plays an important role in supporting personal independence and wellbeing.
The programme focuses on helping each resident to:
- Maintain independence and autonomy
- Express preferences and make everyday choices
- Connect socially and build friendships
- Feel valued and supported within our community
- Find fun, enjoyment and meaning in everyday life
Through a rich and varied range of activities, residents are encouraged to contribute in meaningful ways to life in Rathkeevan, helping to create a warm and homely atmosphere where every role, no matter how small, is valued.
Our approach embraces a social model of care. Moving beyond a purely medical model helps create an environment where residents feel that their actions and contributions are recognised and appreciated.
A strong activities programme plays a vital role in this approach. By encouraging residents to participate in shared projects, creative activities and social experiences, we create opportunities for cooperation, conversation and friendship.
These shared experiences allow residents to support one another, develop new connections and strengthen existing friendships, while enjoying a sense of purpose and belonging within the Rathkeevan community.
From the comfort of quiet cups of tea to singsongs and opportunities for learning new skills, we consistently evaluate the current abilities and interests of each resident in order to assess what supports we can put in place so that they can achieve their full potential during their time in Rathkeevan.
Explore Our Activities Programme
- Activities Programme
- The Garden Project
- One-to-One Connection
- Movement & Physical Activity
- Music & SInging
- Spiritual Support
- Intergenerational Activities
- Christmas Crafting
Meet Our Activities Coordinators
Our activities programme is led by: Mary Hourigan & Claire O’Connell
Mary Hourigan has a background in general nursing ,including care of the elderly and palliative care, She also has a keen interest in several creative activities such as art, music, qi gong and tai chi . She enjoys introducing meditation, mindfulness and nature connection to the residents along with new learning through the music and history appreciation groups. Mary has also been involved in several choirs over the years and is currently a member of Clontempo choir here in Clonmel. Mary has set up and helped to run several groups in the past including an art group and tai chi/ qi gong group both of which she is still a member. As an avid reader she is also a member of the Transatlantic Skype Book Club through Clonmel Library. Mary also ran her own business for several years and she brings these organisational skills to her role as coordinator where she oversees the administrative side of the programme. Mary also enjoys connecting with residents through the Irish language and fosters conversation among volunteers and residents who are fluent. Drawing on this wealth of experience and interests Mary created The Joy of Living Programme for the residents of Rathkeevan.
Claire O Connell has a huge passion for sports and in particular the G.A.A, Claire has been both a keen sportswoman and supporter over many years. She is also a qualified and experienced personal trainer with an in-depth knowledge of how our bodies work and thrive through regular physical activity. Claire brings this lifetime of experience to her role as coordinator and along with it , a fantastic sense of fun to our exercise classes. Having cared for both her parents over a significant length of time , Claire found her calling in the care of the elderly and worked for several years with us as a Health Care Assistant before transferring to the role of coordinator for which she is most suited. Claire brings a great sense of enthusiasm to the programme and facilitates several of our activities including our gardening project which she oversees annually.
Mary and Claire’s dedication, creativity and care ensure that every resident has opportunities to engage, learn, connect and enjoy life each day.
They are always happy to speak with families who would like to learn more about the programme.
Friends of Rathkeevan
When the Joy of Living Programme was introduced, we created a volunteer group called Friends of Rathkeevan.
Our volunteers generously give their time and talents to enrich the lives of residents. Each volunteer brings unique skills, creativity and warmth that help expand the variety of activities we offer.
Their dedication allows us to provide a programme that is truly vibrant, engaging and meaningful.
Family and friends are always welcome to join us and participate in activities alongside their loved ones.