My Resident are really enjoying all the great ideas and the new activities especially the bingo games. I appreciated and the great ideas, tips and new activities.
Hi, absolutely I loved this idea it inspired me! Idownloaded several songs on spotify and had all my props together I used the following songs:- Green Green Grass of home and had a bag of fresh grass Im forever blowing bubbles - whilst blowing bubbles Teddy bear by elvis presley-using a teddy bear Singing in the rain - using an umbrella Well the residents absolutley loved it especially im forever blowing bubbles the smiles and delight on the face of the residents brought tears to my eyes. I got as much out of this activity as the residents did. Thank you so much for suggesting such a wonderful, special Idea. Leanne
It took me a long time and a great deal of determination but I now have a group of ladies that come in every Friday for a sing along. I advertised in local and our own newsletter. Several members from the same ladies singing group share the job, I print a song book with the words of the songs, we have between 10 and 15 residents every Friday, we do have a piano or I could use recorded music but the ladies prefer to take the session without music as we cant keep up with any music that is playing. Residents who are reluctant to join in are doing so now and today I had 1 lady who was pretending to read her newspaper singing along with us. Good luck
This is a great idea Jean I had a resident Choral group similar to this We did have performances of the group 4 times a year for family members and the community
Hi, I have bought John McSweeney in Concert 102 Songs you know by heart Volume 1 & 2. The residents love them and sing a long. Everyone knows the words and each DVD goes for about 90 mins. Best fun ever!!!
Hi Aubree, there is so much mood enhancing music out there, but it is not always easy to find. I would try the Big Bands of the 1930s and 1940s. The Tango, Swing and Salsa music often inspire movement and dancing. Also, take the average age of your clients and look at the Top 40 hit parade from when they were 20 or 25. Here is a small list from the 1950s:
- Delicado - Percy Faith and his Orchestra - Diana - Paul Anka - Leroy - Jack Scott - This Old House - Stuart Hamblen - She Say - The Diamonds
Of course soothing music for agitation management is important. Try lullabies, religious Hymns, and soft classical music. Best wishes
There are some great singalong cd's that you can purchase such as Max bygraves singalong the war years ,Vera lynn and Toni almond they come with there own song book . I download lyrics to mixed cds like crooners and we singalong with the cd . Dvd singalongs are great too such as golden memories and some karaoke ones .
yes!...great idea I never like the "babysitting" culture that we can spot everywhere...I rather motivate "Inspire Me" with meaningful activities. Please give me ideas for only high care residents. Only three can sing or whisper melodies. Great site.
I agree Lauretta, the smaller the group the better!
Lauretta
1st Jul 2009
This is so simple but a really good idea for any therapsist working with high care and attempting small group therapy. There is a need for therapists to be encouraged to do small groups rather than be expected to look after larger groups which often ends up just "babysitting"
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Enjoy meaningful activity ideas that you can use with your clients straight away.
Thank you for your kind words
Keep up the good work