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Sharon 12th Mar 2018 Activities Coordinator

Hi all, I could use some suggestions. I have a vision impaired, non mobile resident who does not present with dementia. She is constantly calling for attention and will ask for trivial jobs to be done. This lovely lady attends most activities but tends to fall asleep during them. She is supported with a great deal of one on one time but demands constant attention every minute of the day. She does not like television or movies, loud music, or bingo and, due to having a pacemaker, she cannot have close contact with our PARO seal. her family do not live near. I am trying to find some form of diversion/ activity that can be utilised to keep her occupied as she is consistently calling for attention from very busy staff even when she has just been attended to. I am the only Leisure officer for 45 high care residents in a 2 story building and would like to assist this resident with meaningful and purposeful activities. Thank you all for your support, suggestions and ideas.

Ema 13th Mar 2018 Activities Coordinator

Hi there, I have a resident that is just like yours and diversion is the way forward. I have a cuppa and a chat and talk about something that they relate to. I ask her to be descriptive on something and possibly describe a shape act. I have adapted their to using clay or play do as it is easier to manipulate.

Solange 13th Mar 2018 Diversional Therapist

I agree with Ema, in my experience, Air Dry Clay (or any other clay) is an excellent activity for sight deficit clients. Also, most people love a daily walk, and perhaps a volunteer to listen to her? Elderly people enjoy having someone listening to them. I would also try jewellery making with large beads. Perhaps she would like to 'volunteer' to be the leader of a game for a small group of her peers like 'Finish the Proverbs', brain games like Riddles, Antonyms, Synonyms. Whenever possible try to involve her with visiting children (intergenerational activities).

marie 20th Mar 2018 diversional therapist

Do you have any volunteers who could be assigned to your resident as a 1-1 pot plants raised gardens are a good distraction ,doll therapy reminising, music .make up a plan with her over week and get her involved with what she likes but a volunteer who comes in once or twice a week would be a help to you too

Ema 21st Mar 2018 Activities Coordinator

I find that any volunteers that come in usually find the ones they for with. I think it's a great idea to encourage this. It's hard trying to assist someone that you cannot lend yourself fully too. But over time we do find that one volunteer that can just open up the door.

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