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Jam avatar

Hi everyone. I am now working at a 40 bed Hospital Unit for the elderly. They have not had any consistent activities for quite some time and I have just taken over the DT position. Any ideas to get them back to engaging and interacting? We have been doing quizzes and riddles which are always welcomed. Sing-alongs. Bingo is not very famous with this group though. Would love to hear new ideas from you! Thanks!

Ria avatar

Musical bingo is a big love at our day centre.

Have you got the John McSweeney DVDs? Our clients love them. I've just posted about my activity files if you want access.

Susan avatar

Hey Ria

Thank you for you input

Susan avatar

Hi Jam

I think the activities you provide should be ones that the residents like to do and are capable of doing

You may want to have a meeting with the residents to see what they like

https://www.goldencarers.com/how-to-run-successful-resident-council-meetings/4215/

I assume you have some information about each resident which should help you at the meeting

Remember you can adapt and modify activities they used to enjoy

you have a good start

If you would like to share the abilities and likes and dislikes of the group I can help you further

Life avatar

My residents always love playing noodles and balloon - cut pool noodles in half, each resident gets one to hit the balloon, sit the residents in a circle and try to keep the balloon afloat. Laughter and joy and great interaction always occurs.

Susan avatar

Teresa

Thank you for the suggestion it sounds like you have a lot of fun

Kim avatar

You can facilitate interaction among residents by doing a monthly "Resident Spotlight," where residents gather to meet one resident and get to know them better. My residents love this and are always wondering who the resident will be for the month.

Susan avatar

Kim

Interesting idea

I say if it works for you go for it

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Linda Small
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Linda Small

I co-own and operate a small assisted living home in Pittsfield, NH (U.S.A.). We consistently seek ways to improve upon our senior activity program, providing a diversified balance of a purposeful and enjoyable time of recreation, crafting, exercise and others to reach all of our residents. I must say, it's been a challenge. This past October I began researching options online and came across your site, subscribing for a year to see what you were all about. Let me tell you, you have not disappointed! Your site is a priceless resource that we are extremely thankful for. We find a significant increase in resident participation and look forward to the new ideas that each month brings. Our residents love the changes!