Case study: Richard Smith, Oakcroft House, Surrey

A head for figures

After a career in ‘right brain’ activity, former accountant Richard is now letting his artistic side flow thanks to staff at Bupa’s Oakcroft House care home

Shortly after 80 year-old Richard moved into Bupa’s Oakcroft House in Surrey he was encouraged to try painting by homes activity co-ordinator, Sue Casoria.
“It was Sue’s idea to try it,” says Richard. “And I’ve got a soft spot for her, so I gave it a try.”

Sue found out from his Map of Life that Richard had enjoyed painting when he was younger, so she brought him some pencils and paints. It turned out that Richard had an excellent ‘eye’.
“I just left him to it and when I came back he’d done a really good picture,” says Sue. “You can see the shape of the boat appearing, it’s really well done.”

With his sea scene well under way, Richard is already planning more pictures. His daughter, who visits frequently, has commented that, since he started painting, Richard is a lot more outgoing and chatty and his paintings have given him a sense of pride.
“I’ve not started the other paintings yet, but I shall do some more,” says Richard.” I’m not good at portraits, but I like landscapes.”

With support from Sue, Richard has found that watercolours are best.
“I used to use acrylics,” remembers Richard. “But I’ve found that watercolours are better for a shaky hand. Sometimes it’s difficult to do things like the leaves.”

Sue’s role is to support residents in activities that they find enjoyable or stimulating. Some are part of Bupa’s activities provision and involve other residents. Some, like painting, they can do if they prefer to be by themselves. Richard agrees that painting has definitely benefited him.
“It’s important to have a hobby or interest to keep the brain working,” says Richard. “I feel relaxed when I’m painting.”

Richard spent many years exercising his brain with figures, as an accountant living in Walton on Thames. But in later life he and his wife, ‘Babe’ (she was the youngest of five) both started painting.
“I just tried it and I was pleased with the result,” recalls Richard. “It’s a very different part of the brain. Perhaps that’s why I enjoy it.”