We don't have a PA system, but we do have a program called One Call Now. It's a subscription service. We can record messages or type them in. Then they go out as a phone call to the whole group or to chosen smaller groups. It has really helped us to get information out without going door to door or leaving notes.
I have been doing the morning announcements for the past 15 years, and our residents really looked forward to them each morning. Unfortunately, I was instructed by our head office, late last year, that i had to stop, because I was using the fire system PA, and this is not permitted. So many residents, staff and families have expressed their disappointment. I have also found that attendance at many activities has dropped off, simply because I can't get around to every room to remind people, even though everyone has a printed copy of the activities program. (We have 144 residents)
Unfortunately we're not allowed to do overhead announcements because it is contrary to a "homelike" environment which can lead to a citation during survey. Morning announcements sound fun though!
I'm so happy I found this site. It's been very helpful to me for my job and for the residents I care for. Many thanks to GoldenCarers you're doing an excellent job!