Solange

Hi Victoria, you could try requesting residents' relatives 'help' via the monthly newsletter when making decorations for an event for instance. Asking for help may inspire relatives to commit themselves for an hour or two. Also, HIgh Tea is another opportunity for a family gathering; make it worth their while so they will come back for more. High Tea with a little pomp and ceremony could do the trick. Don't feel bad; keep trying. All the best of luck!

Hi, Irini, Dressing, and bathing is a valuable opportunity to meet emotional needs and offer compassionate touch. Use open-ended conversation by using questions that require more than a ’yes’ and ‘no’ answers. For instance: questions starting with ‘how’ and ‘what if’ like: ‘What if I wash your hair today? - ’What if after the bath/dressing I take you to sit in the sun? - How do you feel after a nice warm shower? - How about if I told you I am having problems buttoning your blouse correctly? Open-ended questions yield more information; they are especially good to start a conversation. You may talk about yourself: What if I told you I went to bed last night after midnight? Or about the facility: How do you like to have Potato & Leeks soup for lunch? (find out what is on the menu). Make sure you really listen to the resident to build trust and rapport. With a little practice, you can turn any question into an open-ended question.

Thank you, Cate, for the feedback. We really appreciate it.

Thank you, Ann, for your kind words.

Hi, Margaret. It depends on the wool ply you use. For instance, bulky/chunky wool
need thicker needles. The best is to pick a yarn and make samples with two or three different needles. Thinner needles will make tight samples and thicker needles soft, malleable samples.

FIDGET BLANKETS FOR BEGINNERS
NEEDLE SIZES FOR BULKY/CHUNKY WOOL/ACRYLIC
Australia U.K. U.S.
5.5 5 9 - 10 - 11

Yes, black and white are said to be better for people with advanced dementia.

Thank you, Patricia, glad your residents find enjoyment with the songs. Your feedback is very much appreciated.

Hi Dee, we always had an activity going for at least half of the break. For instance, True or False games, Quizzes, read a short story, watch a TED Talk, read a few jokes, 'I Went to Market' type of game or reading some interesting Trivia. Having said, we did not interrupt if residents were interacting and the conversation animated.

Hi Esther, Welcome to Golden Carers! Thank you for your kind words.

Hi Stephanie, we have in mind that most facilities don't usually have a generous budget for activity staff. That being so we try to use donated recycled material, and what is around the house and kitchen. When the material is purchased we recommend charity shops and Dollar shops as much as possible. We hope you can join us in the future.