Post

Janet avatar

Hi , I just started a new job at an assisted living facility that has never had an activity director.

Right now we have 14 residents with various needs. I cannot find anything that they want to do except bingo and happy hour.

I've tried different exercise ideas, coloring,dice games and brain games.

Next month I'm putting a couple of crafts and fun in the kitchen.

If its not bingo I usually get 2 people.

Any suggestions?

Susan avatar

Hi Janet

First of all congratulations on your new role

Sell bingo and happy hour or a good start

I would try a resident council meeting and perhaps you can delve into what activities they might want to do

I would also explain to them how important activities are

There was an article that stated that those participating in activities are more likely to maintain brain function

I would have to find the article again if you need it

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

With that being said, have you tried other food Activities food do usually is a big draw

Music is also good

https://www.goldencarers.com/how-to-plan-music-activities-for-dementia-care/3192/

Even though this article it’s for dementia care Dallas is some good ideas here

Related to that you might want to have entertainment

What about spiritual or religious activities

https://www.goldencarers.com/30-spiritual-activity-ideas/6332/

One game I really like that is easy and fun and is fairly inclusive is bunco

You can adapted in so many ways to meet the needs of people who are playing and he might be able to get a group of 12 because it is the ideal number to play the game but you could play with only a few if that is how many people you get

https://www.goldencarers.com/bunco-dice-game-for-seniors/5724/

What about tabletop games?

https://www.goldencarers.com/tabletop-games-bingo/8783/

If you have any specific questions about any of these activities, let me know

Susan avatar

Hi again Janet,

I used the techniques here to get people to come to Activities https://www.goldencarers.com/how-to-get-reluctant-residents-to-attend-activities/5980/

Debbie avatar
Debbie Recreational Lifestyle Officer

It can be hard finding activities that they will participate in. Try and find out a bit more about each person and what they may have enjoyed in the past. Ask them what they want to do, ask family members, which I am sure you have already. Just keep trying different activities and keep trying some you have already done as I find sometime you may do a particular activity and they enjoy it and you then might do it again in 2 weeks and they dont enjoy it. Dont be disheartened. Just keep trying and all you can do is document that you have tried and they declined to participate, At least it shows you are trying. I also find some will not join in group activities but will do some activities 1:1 with you so factor this into your programing and they might be more comfortable doing it in their room so offer portable activities that you can take and do in their room.

Susan avatar

Hi Debbie

Thanks for the information

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Lorraine Intan
Lifestyle Officer Australia Flag
Lorraine Intan

With the resources I've received from you, which I now can't do without, you've become one of my vital lifelines. This site gives me courage and enthusiasm because I know it will always back me up, no matter what. Thank you, and I hope you never stop generating new ideas that we can share, making life more meaningful for the vulnerable in our community.