'Arts and Health Awareness Day' in Sacred Heart Hospital Castlebar

On Friday 30th May, 2025 the Sacred Heart Hospital (SHH) Castlebar, in collaboration with the Mayo Arts Office, hosted an ‘Arts and Health Awareness Day’ for residents, service users, staff, families, visitors and friends as part of Bealtaine – Ireland’s national festival celebrating the arts and creativity as we age.

Helen Walsh, Assistant Director of Nursing at the Sacred Heart Hospital, Castlebar explained; “I am aware of research that demonstrates the benefits of art in older person settings. It is a catalyst for self-expression and can stimulate the senses with a potential to boost a person’s mood and self-worth. Whilst rekindling an old skill or learning a new skill, lifelong learning helps the brain to adapt and restructure itself by building new and more efficient neurological pathways. This has the added benefit of promoting healthy ageing and potential to improve the persons quality of life.

“We are aware that we have some very talented artists among our residents, and we thought that an event such as this could foster connection, encourage artistic participation and highlight the benefits of integrating arts into healthcare here in the Sacred Heart Hospital.”

Norah Brennan, resident artist in the SHH commented; “Some of the residents who attend my twice weekly art classes find the art engagement relaxing whilst others find it invigorating and a great outlet for their creativity.”

Once the project was approved, the organising committee approached Mayo Arts Office who kindly agreed to part fund the event. The residents were more than happy to contribute their collection of beautiful artwork and showcase it on the day.

There was great excitement and a buzz of activity in the Café area just inside the front entrance of the SHH. With live entertainment in full swing from the talented Damien McHale, many residents, with the help of staff, danced and sang along, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, the art workshop was a hive of creativity, bustling with participants deeply engaged in their work.

Resident Val Conlon, who took the opportunity to make a birthday card for his daughter, stated; “Thank you for organising the day. I really enjoyed the day in the coffee shop area.” Whilst resident Paddy Chambers shared; “I enjoyed the day immensely and I like the social side of art.”

Attending both workshops, resident Michael McHale said; “It was marvellous to see so many people at the day, and the music and the craic was great fun. Thanks for the lovely food also. Good on ye!”