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Rainy days can disrupt routines, especially for older Australians and people living with disability. Creative activities like cooking, drawing, and scrapbooking build connections and confidence, while virtual travel lets customers explore the world from the comfort of their living rooms. Music therapy-style activities support cognitive engagement and mood, and when the weather clears, getting outside is always an option. Companion cards can help make ticketed venues more accessible for those who need support.
Support Workers and carers are often expected to juggle competing priorities with near-superhuman efficiency, but the weather is the one variable no one can manage. When the weather changes plans, it helps to have a few ideas ready to go.

For many older Australians and people living with disability, a sudden change in plans due to rain can be more than an inconvenience.

Rainy days can throw the order of events out the window and can be genuinely unsettling, particularly when routines are closely tied to a sense of independence, stability and control.

But a rainy day also creates an opportunity for carers and Support Workers to shift focus toward activities that build new skills, strengthen relationships and support wellbeing in creative ways.

Here are some ideas worth keeping in mind for the next rainy day.

Creative pursuits

Inclement weather provides a great opportunity for Support Workers, Carers and family members to help someone they support to tap into their creative side.

Cooking can require few ingredients and can easily be adapted to take into account differing levels of experience, skill and dietary requirements. A great way to bring people together, putting on an apron, raiding the pantry or fridge and strengthen your connection through the sharing of family recipes, or to reminisce over a favourite childhood treat.

Drawing, painting or scrapbooking is another great way of turning everyday activities into shared experiences, while at the same time helping to build concentration. Requiring little in the way of resources, just some paper and paint or pencils, and easily adapted for nearly any age or ability level, these activities let you either let your creative juices flow freely or follow online videos that offer step-by-step tips on more advanced illustrations.

Virtual travel

You don't have to leave home to see the world.

Technology is increasingly shaping indoor entertainment, allowing you to take virtual museum tours, climb the Eiffel Tower, or even experience the Serengeti without stepping out of your living room.

If you'd prefer to tailor the experience, you may like to livestream zoo cameras for animal lovers, listen to inspiring stories from everyday Australians via a TED Talk, or ponder historical events by watching a walking tour of the Great Pyramids of Egypt.

Wired for sound

Music can lift your mood in an instant.

When the rainy-day blues hit, consider putting on your own concert using instruments or other items you have around the house. Alternatively, if banging on pots and pans isn't your thing, you can always exercise your vocal chords by turning on the radio or creating a personalised playlist and singing karaoke-style to your favourite tunes.

For older Australians in particular, music therapy-style activities can stimulate cognitive engagement, while younger people may enjoy dancing to keep their energy high!

Getting out of the house

Wet weather does not mean you are confined to the four walls of home. Getting outside can be a great way to foster skill development while supporting well-being.

Consider a trip to the cinema, the shopping centre for a bit of retail therapy, or, for those who prefer a little more action, the nearest leisure centre to use the facilities.

And it's only a bit of rain. As long as it's safe, throw on a rain jacket and head outside for a refreshing walk to take in the scenery.

Companion Cards: a state-by-state guide

If you're supporting someone who wants to get out and about, a Companion Card can make ticketed events and activities more accessible and affordable. The card allows a carer or support person to accompany the cardholder into participating venues free of charge, helping to remove one of the practical barriers to community participation.

Companion Cards are available in every state and territory. Find the application details for your area below:

Each state and territory manages its own program, so eligibility criteria and application processes vary. Check the relevant website for your state below for what applies in your area.

Make a difference in your community

If you're passionate about supporting older Australians and people living with disability to live the life they choose, we'd love to hear from you. Apply to join your local Just Better Care office today.

Apply now