Does anyone have ideas of group activities that would include residents that are blind. I find myself struggling in this area, please help!.
Molly
25th Jul 2018
Activity Professional & Writer
Hi Melinda, Sing-a-long groups or trivia groups could be a good option. Exercise groups could work too as long as the instructor know that they need to be descriptive. Even cooking groups as long as you are able to assist in the adaptations - like assisting in stirring by placing the bowl and spoon in their hands.
I have just found a group called Cycling Without Age. It has been very good for blind residents in the homes I understand. It is good for everyone! Google it and see what you think. You would have to purchase the "trike" with fund raising or corporate donations, but they are a great addition to any home.
Even it is good to ask or find out from residents that what are there intrests & hobbies which excited them earlier in life or even now. Whatever information you get you can find out activities basis on those information and modify it acording to persons needs.
Name that tune , play the start of a song and see if someone can guess what it is everyone can play ,also sensory where you have some little jars put a small piece of cotton wool in each jar with something on like lavender ,baby powder a spice , then have a few tastes and then boxes or bags with items in for them to feel and guess what they are . Have fun
Today we had a game of musical bingo. I have 1 resident who is nearly blind and heard her comment that she wished she could see to play. I often hear her singing along with CD's and know that she knows a lot of music so I involved her in the game by telling her to sing along with the tune in order to give the other residents a 'clue' to the title. She enjoyed her role and so did the other residents.
I just love love love this site - each time I'm glued to the many and awesome ideas to engage with our seniors. I recently downloaded some of the crossword puzzles and these seniors are fabulous to work with. That is just the tip of the iceberg. In this new chapter of my life, as semi-retired, I am so enjoying my time with seniors and watching them light up; I feel I've found a new niche. It's extremely gratifying. As to the cost of membership, it came out of my pocket - I rationalised that it was only about $3/month, less than many magazines. So keep up the GREAT work!!! Thanks again Golden Carers!!!!!
Here is a great article with 20 activities for the visually impaired https://www.goldencarers.com/20-activities-for-the-visually-impaired/4205/.