The Brain Gym rolled out as part of the Be Well 360 service

At Anchor, we take a holistic approach when it comes to supporting wellbeing. Staying mentally active, socially connected and engaged is just as important as physical health, and that’s where the Brain Gym comes in.

Originally developed and led by Elizabeth Holla at Pemberley Place, the Brain Gym is a fun, inclusive activity designed to support cognitive wellbeing while bringing residents together. It has been so well received by residents that Brain Gym sessions are now being introduced by many of our Be Well 360 Wellbeing Advisors at The Dials, The Chimes, The Landings and The Standard.

What is the Brain Gym?

The Brain Gym is a relaxed, sociable session that helps residents keep their minds active through light mental exercises, memory activities and shared conversation. It’s designed to improve concentration, build cognitive resilience and encourage healthy habits.

Importantly, the Brain Gym is fully inclusive. Every activity is adaptable, ensuring residents with different abilities can take part and feel involved.

What happens in a session?

Each session begins with a gentle warm-up to help residents focus and feel comfortable. This might include simple movements such as tapping around the head and face, shaking out arms and legs, or trying playful coordination challenges.

Quick-fire tasks follow, designed to stimulate thinking and keep everyone engaged, before the theme of the day takes centre stage. Themes can vary from colours and shapes to senses or personal objects. Residents are invited to bring something meaningful to share, leading to show-and-tell moments that spark memories and conversation.

Sometimes the stories shared are deeply heartfelt and other times they’re full of laughter. Residents are encouraged to explore the items together by touching, describing and remembering them, before testing their memory by recalling as many items as possible.

Sessions usually finish with a word game and, of course, a small chocolate treat which is a much-loved tradition.

Why it works 

The Brain Gym offers a wide range of benefits for residents, including:

• Encouraging social connection and teamwork
• Supporting inclusivity, including for residents with visual impairments
• Improving memory, focus and concentration
• Sparking meaningful conversation and shared memories
• Giving residents something to look forward to and prepare for
• Providing gentle mental stimulation in a relaxed environment

Many residents start preparing for sessions days in advance whether that’s by choosing meaningful items or dressing in the theme’s colours.

Brett Jenkins, Wellbeing Development Manager at Anchor, says:

What makes the Brain Gym so special is the way it brings residents together. It supports cognitive health, yes, but it also creates laughter, shared stories and moments of real connection. That’s why we champion it within Be Well 360, because when residents feel engaged, valued and included, their wellbeing flourishes.

A growing approach to wellbeing

The Brain Gym is a great example of how creative, person-led activities can make a real difference to wellbeing. By supporting cognitive health alongside physical activity, it reflects our commitment to helping residents live full, active and connected lives.

What began as one idea at Pemberley Place is now influencing activity programmes at selected locations and shows how small, thoughtful initiatives can have a lasting impact  .