Why Carpet Bowls Belongs in Every Care Home – The Power of Play, Movement & Connection
Ever tried rolling a bowl down a mat and seeing how close you can get to the little white jack? Simple idea – but it’s surprisingly engaging. That’s the charm of Indoor Carpet Bowls and Home Carpet Bowls. They’re more than games. In a care setting, they’re connection, laughter, movement – all rolled into one.
Let’s break down why this old-school favourite still has a place in modern care.
Why Carpet Bowls?
First up – it’s easy to set up. No need for a bowling green or fancy kit. Just a flat surface, a mat, and a set of bowls.
More importantly, it gets people moving. A gentle roll here, a quiet cheer there. Even from a seated position, players can get involved. And for many residents, that little bit of physical activity goes a long way – stretching the arms, building hand-eye coordination, and feeling part of something.
But it’s not just about bodies – it’s about spirits. There’s laughter. Banter. A bit of healthy competition. Residents open up, carers join in, and suddenly it’s not just a game – it’s a highlight of the week.
Getting Started – No Fuss, No Stress
All you need:
- A carpet bowls set – usually with four bowls each and a white jack.
- A mat – around 30ft × 6ft, but flexible depending on your space.
- Optional: A score sheet (if you want to keep it competitive).
Don’t have a mat? A long runner or strip of low-pile carpet will do. It’s the activity that matters, not the gear.
Set up the mat, pop down the jack, and take turns rolling bowls to get as close as possible. No running, no bending – just aim and roll.
Is Indoor Carpet Bowls Different from Lawn Bowls?
Kind of. Carpet bowls is a type of indoor bowls. The mat’s smaller, the game’s gentler, and the focus is on accuracy, not power. Lawn bowls is outdoors – bigger, heavier, and played on a large green. Also carpet bowls is cosier and care-home-friendly. No ditch. No weather issues. Just a good game indoors.
What are the best bowls for indoors?
Lightweight, low-bias bowls are perfect. Easier to grip, easier to control – especially for older adults or people with reduced strength.
Are carpet bowls all the same size?
Mostly, yes. But some sets vary slightly in weight or design. For group play, consistency is key – try to stick with the same set if you can.
Making It Work in a Care Setting
Here’s what makes it shine:
- Everyone can join in – seated, standing, using aids – doesn’t matter.
- Sessions can be as formal or relaxed as you like.
- Add music, themes (Easter Bowl-Off, anyone?), or friendly prizes.
- Residents start looking forward to it – and that’s half the magic.
Try running it weekly. Keep a leaderboard. Celebrate the small wins. One home even held a “State of Origin” tournament between facilities – and it was a smash hit.
The Takeaway? It’s More Than a Game
Carpet bowls gets people talking. Moving. Laughing. It’s familiar to many and new to others – but either way, it builds a sense of belonging. And that’s priceless.
So whether you’re running a large care home or caring for someone at home, it’s worth giving Home Carpet Bowls a go. It’s low cost, low effort – and the return? Huge.
Want to Try It?
Take a look at our Home Carpet Bowls Set and get started.
You’ll be amazed how something so simple can bring people together.