Vikki

Hi Sam
I've been here. You've already received some good ideas. Here are some things I've done. Bingo cards can found on the computer printed, enlarged and laminated, and use bottle tops as tokins. Visit the $2 shops, vinnies etc for playing cards, dominos, boardgames, craft, knitting needles, paint brushes, clue sticks and scissors even cd's and movies. etc.
Sorting games can be made with coloured pegs, ($1.50) large buttons,( vinnies) and coloured cookie cutters ( $2.00). Pom Pom making - use a cereal box and wool scrapes. Make picture scrape books from old magazines. My basic kit cost me about me about $50.00 and I still use it.
Use google for quizzes. Jig saw puzzles can be made from old calendar pictures , just laminate and cut into squares or triangles of 6 or 9 pieces. Finally organise a fundraiser for activity equipment ( chocolates in winter work a treat. Good luck. Vikki

Hi Caz,
I found that exercise is best for first thing in the morning. It's helps wake the residents up, warms them up in winter and isn't to hot I summer months.We conduct exercises at 930 am daily, active twice a week, and tai chi three times a week.
We also have a morning walk at 9am which the PTA's help with. Hope this helps.
Vikki

Couldn't agree more!!! We have several areas designed for just that. My favourite is the one off high care dining room where there is a lovely water feature (1m height by 0.5m wide.)and a bird feeder. There is a covered and uncovered area with two wooden park benches for residents to sit. The area is quaint, relaxing and the sent of flowers is beginning to fill the air. Its not a big area but very tranquil and well used, especially as it is right off the main dining room.

Hi Maria,
I have previously contacted local schools, dance studios, and senior citizens groups for entertainment for resident functions. Also look in your local paper for adult dance classes, sometimes these groups are happy to demonstrate for free just for the practice. Put together a ball room dance focus group or small committee from volunteers or interested family members. This will help you delegate the work load and give yourself a couple of months for planning. Advertise on your billboard or in the newsletter for donations and volunteers to help on the day or night.
For Ideas and help for a mans work shop go to your local bunnings they have a work shop group that will come out, and they are excellent for project ideas and for off cuts in timber.
Have fun.
Vikki,
.

What great article. Very informative, a common sense to approach to preventing falls in the activity area. I work activity/ Physio - aide so will definitely be putting this in practice.
Thank you.