what care should I expect from a demitia unit in an aged care facility, I am not content in the way my dad has been cared for, However Im not sure of the care to expect, dad refuses showers, so they dont shower him! is this common practice? other residents sleep in his bed?
Hi there, I was wondering if anyone could give me some ideas' for gifts for Father's Day. I have run out of original ideas now and am really struggling to think of something.
TAFE student needs some questions prepared to tape a Reminiscing activity with some seniors in a multicultural drop in centre. Meeting is tomorrow 2nd of May. Thanks heaps.
Posted by: Marina Macfarlane | 1st May 2012 View profile
Jan, The muffs sound great. I have made two fiddle aprons and I appreciate how long they take and how much love goes into them.
Good work, would love to see pictures.
Thanks for your comments Jan. Yes, you can upload photos. Please click on:
Get Involved > Submit Your Activity Photos
from the right hand vertical members menu.
Here is a direct link:
http://www.goldencarers.com/submit-photo.php
I have just spent the weekend making twiddle muffs from an old fleecy blanket, some wadding and nice material. I made a padded roll that the person can put their hands in, this feels soft, warm and comforting. Inside I sewed a small bag of bean bag beads so they can 'fiddle, one myff has a small squeezy ball inside a bag ( sewn inside) On the outside I have sewn ribbons, beads on ribbon, small tinkly bells, zips, toggles, buttoned velcro strips. I would post photos but not sure how to. I have been looking these up on the internet and the ones on offer are childish and not thought out. Plus they are very very expensive! I am taking two to work on Tuesday to try them out and will post back to let you know how I got on:)
Hi Jan,
It is commendable the fact that you spent the weekend doing unpaid work for the love of your residents!
Your dedication is certainly impressive. Congratulations!
Please let us know how you go. I agree with you, the price for buying twiddle muffs is just too high. Luckily for your residents they have a dedicated worker who is creative and can sew.
All the best,
Solange
I make little posies for all the ladies. Put them in a fridge covered with wet hand towel. Leave a note for staff to put on their breakfast tables for Mother's Day
Helen
I make little posies for all the ladies. Put them in a fridge covered with wet hand towel. Leave a note for staff to put on their breakfast tables for Mother's Day
Helen
Hi there, I was wondering if anyone could give me some ideas' for gifts for Mothers Day. I have run out of original ideas now and am really struggling to think of something. Our budget is VERY tiny.
Hi Valerie,
To tell you the truth I have never celebrate the DT week. However, I believe that any excuse is a good excuse to have a celebration. Here is one idea on how to do it.
How to celebrate Diversional Therapy week
Many facilities celebrate it with a morning tea and activities for staff, residents and their relatives and volunteers. The idea is to promote the benefits of leisure and recreation for people living in long term care organizations and other health care facilities. Some of the activities featuring on this special day should be the ones highlighting the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of clients which recreation staff strives to meet on a daily basis; often without much support and/or funds.
I hope this can be of some help.
Cheers,
Solange
Perhaps you could give him a couple of smaller portions. I'm not sure if that will solve the problem, it really depends on why he is doing it. Perhaps he feels he has to eat quickly or someone will take his food. I encountered a lady who used to 'shovel' her food in & it would go everywhere, she has Huntingtons Disease.
You could try seating him away from those who find it extremely offensive, but not on his own as he will feel excluded from the group.
One of our residents with dementia fills his mouth too full and doesn't swallow quickly enough when eating to the point of food falling out of his mouth. This is upsetting for other residents and embarassing for his family. Some feel physically sick to see it. We've tried prompting him to stop putting food in, but he gets cranky asking if we think he can't even feed himself. Any suggestions?
Thank you all for your advice. On our daily program we just list activities in the dementia wing as eg: "Activities" 2pm-3pm, so depending on whats happening on the day we do a few different activities in smaller groups....
Hi Catherine.
Engaging late stage dementia elders is challenging. Sensory stimulation is a great tool.
In regards to questions, I find that if you have a converstion with them, bringing in a question is not so challenging for them. Let me share with you a recent experience.
A new relder came into our facility and I asked - in converstion - did you have any hobbies, to which she replied no I have had a hip replacement, this made me realise that she hadn\'t computed the question but then went on to say, I know all about those because I was a nurse. I then said yes I was a nurse and found that gardening was a great releif for me after work, the reply was yes I love gardening, So you see what I mean, and in our facility also we try and engage the elders in normal household chores, asking them to help you out as it would be a great help becaue you are so busy. This way they feel useful .
Of course don\'t forget that what works one day may not work the next.
Now I have a question on programming, . coming up for accreditation how do you set a programme when everyone is so different , I do put subject to change and add individual
I would be interested to know how others faired when being accredited.
Hi Catherine, I know what you are saying; it is very challenging to engage residents actively in activities. My suggestions would be to keep trying different levels of difficulty. If your clients suffer from second or third stage dementia it is better not to present too many activities that require spoken answers. Try puzzles, sorting by color and size; singing, coloring, easy crafts and daily living activities. By doing this sort of activities they eventually gain some confidence and you can go on to other things. Continue with the smaller group sessions, with the help of volunteers if possible. This way participants can have the attention and assistance they require. All the best!
Solange, I find it difficult to get my residents to participate in activities such as puzzles or quizzes... I have tried a number of times only to get blank stares when I ask the questions, which is upsetting bcoz I feel that I must be doing something wrong? Even asking questions that relate to them personally, such as what is your favourite type of food, or favourite thing to do, or music they just do not or perhaps cannot respond?
I would love to leave the session feeling satisfied & feeling that I have done my job well but most days I do not... Which is sad for all concerned.
The residents all have varying stages of dementia/alzheimers as well as physical ailments.
Can you offer any suggestions as to what I might try to break the ice & initiate some motivation??? Much appreciated.
Hi Catherine, very clever of you to run short sessions. I agree with you, in my experience small groups (3 or 4 people) work much better. I also find that a variety of short sessions repeated throughout the day is often more successful than trying to have a long session. However sometimes it is impossible to do as you like. I work with a group of 10 people suffering from early and not so early stages of Alzheimer’s. My mission is to entertain them for 2 and half hours while their carers have a support group meeting. We sit around a large table from 10:30 am till 1:00 pm; getting up only to go to toilet. For this session I plan 8 to 10 different activities ranging from crayon coloring, puzzle solving (large wooden puzzles), a junior crossword on the white board, a couple of games of Hoy or table Quoits, a riddle or two, ‘Find 10 Differences’ game, a themed quiz, a game of balloon (all sitting and throwing the balloon to each other), ‘Word Search’ (horizontal and vertical only) and a little singing at the end of session. In between those activities I try to encourage them to talk about themselves or something that caught their attention on TV or newspaper. I find that unless I change activities often, they lose focus and tell me ‘they got go home”. I have mostly good sessions and the occasional chaotic session. Luckily I can call for help when I need it. I feel immense pleasure after a good session.
@catherine.... I run pottery and card making classes each week but have found it is the same group of residents that take part.This week I tried taking activities around to smaller groups for half an hour at a time. Everyone this week took part in various things and said they prefered this way of doing it. What type of activities do you do with your dementia residents.... jan
I have a lot of trouble getting my dementia residents to participate as a group, so I do my activities in smaller groups of 3 or 4 for about 15mins each that way they do not lose interest or get bored. Those who do not wish to join in at all I spent time 1:1 with them.
Try to find out WHY ur residents do not want to participate. That is your first challenge ... It maybe as simple as one resident doesnt want to sit next to another particular resident, maybe they cant hear/see whats being done. And find other things for them to do. They may not have been a very social person in the past.
Participation is achieved with a lot of tender loving care. Here are a few tips: 1) Rule out pain/depression. 2) Find out what the resident enjoyed prior to coming to long term care
3) Invite resident to ‘watch’ activity or help someone to play activity.
Hi We are Having the Local Preschool /Daycare Next door Visit our seniors Community day club .any ideas for activities that would be appropriate would be most gratefully received....
I usually never tell them what is on so they dont get the chance to say we dont want to come, so they come because they are curious. Have had a few that never come down so I have asked if the cleaners could clean their room. While they are waiting for the room or rooms to be cleaned they get brought into the lounge or where the activities may be. The first few times they watch then curiosity gets them and now they are atting slowly. Better than not at all. If you have time build a repore with them so they think that you have got time for them..Don't give up they will come around.
i can no longer find the automated word finder i.e you put your own words in the word finder and it automatically 'hides' them for you. I would be grateful if someone could direct me to this please.
Hi Marina... I always like to play music that a resident has liked throughout their life in their rooms when they reach the end stage. It creates a peaceful atmosphere for them & for family. If they have expressed no interest in music something quiet & peaceful played is always lovely. If a resident is religious, by all means pray with them, even if they are not responsive I beleive they can hear you. Essential oils used in a diffuser are wonderful as well as gentle massage using oils, it makes the room smell fresher & is very relaxing. Read stories to them or even just talk to them, about the wonderful achievements of their life. These are all things I have done & documented. Hope this helps a little...
For anyone who was experiencing trouble accessing activities yesterday there seems to have been a glitche with the new site in Internet Explorer which should now have been resolved.
I am not able to access new activities, when I click on them they take me to the 'Recreatrion Therapy Resources' page (advert). Please help. Thank you. Anne.
Hi, I am a carer and also activities co-ordinator at our Frail Aged Hostel, Does anyone please have any ideas for our 2 Vision Impaired residents, Our lady is quite mobile and our male resident uses a wheelchair or walks short distances with our aid and a walking stick, both are indigenous residents, The male enjoys playing his ceromonial boomerangs We have nine residents thanks Kathy
contact dementia Care Australia or wisdom activities
Posted by: Margaret | 20th February 2012 View profile
Hi all. Looking for a supplier in Vic to buy the large balloons that can be untied and blown back up again. Can anyone help please?
Posted by: Kerry Bickerton | 17th February 2012 View profile
Hi Julie
We are fortunate to have a diverse cultural staff so I am calling on them to provide me with items for a cultural display. We will also have a special morning tea.
Have you checked out the ideas section on the Harmony Day website?
They have ideas and you can also receive Harmony packs free.
Posted by: Solange | 14th February 2012 View profile
There is a list of descriptive words in the website; look for Professional terms or click on this link: http://www.goldencarers.com/documentation/resources/professional-terms/
Pass the parcel and you pass it around until it lands on the birthday person where they open it to find an extra little thing for the birthday person. I find that everybody gets excited to find out what extras could be hidden..Happyhou is always a good thing some times i even get an entertainer that can gives them extra attention. Or you could just take the birthday people out to lunch. Or take them to a vidio store so they can choose a vidio to take back to the home and share watching it while you serve small icecream cones.. Just a thought or two thats what I do depending on the birthday people celebrating
Posted by: Clarissa | 6th February 2012 View profile
Does anyone have any ideas for Birthday Morning tea???? I do it on the first Tuesday of the month, with all the people celebrating that month, I give them a coloured cupcake and a candle in there, we sing, hand out presents from our birthday box, and then I read their stars..... That is getting boring.... anyone have ideas??????????????????????
The monthly calendar appears to be missing from the website currently. I will sort it out sort and let you know where to find it. Here is a link to the weekly calendar for Dementia specific.
http://www.goldencarers.com/documentation/forms/dementia-program---weekly/
Read to the residents the meaning and reason we celebrate Australia Day. Then ask the residents to draw items that are Australian and are showcased in the celelbrations held around the country. This could be anything from the Aust. flag, kangaroo, fireworks, sailing ships of the first fleet ect.
Good luck with yoyr activity, this is great for cognitive exercises for residents.
You could finsih off the day with cooking a damper and or a pavolova
Linda
I was wondering if anyone had heard of a book called "View from the Verandah" if so could you let me know the author or where I could pick up a copy. Thanks Sandra
Hi Donna, I am working on Group Games at the moment for the website but it is not quite ready yet. However I sent you a couple of suggestions. Good luck with the party!
You are my lifesaver! I have found your actiity ideas very useful with my monthly planning and newlsetters.
I am planning a birthday party for a 102 year old male resident. Can you please help with suitable group games to use at the party?
Iused to eblong to the WA Diversional Thrapy Ass, I did retire but have now gone back to work and work in a Dementia specific area of a Nursing home doing activities. I am looking for Australia Day activities as i have given all my referance books away. Are you Diversional Therapists
Regards Susan
Where I work we have an Annual Memorial Service where a Minister comes and has a short service. I do a Powerpoint Presentation of the residents that have passed away and show it on a large screen with music in the background. The families are invited of the residents that have passed away. It is a tribute to the wonderful times that we had together and good for the families. It is well represented by family members, residents and staff. It only goes for 30 mins .
Posted by: Solange | 12th December 2011 View profile
A Memorial service for residents who passed away in Nursing homes or Retirement Villages could be for instance, a small religious service performed by a minister of religion. It entails saying a group prayer, a resident or two reading a passage of the bible or remembering a friend with a few words or reading a poem of farewell.
Residents and their families may light candles or place wreaths near the ‘altar’ in honour of their loved ones.
Another alternative is to have a dignified non-religious ceremony which could go like this:
Start with some appropriate background music, then a welcome and brief explanation of the ceremony by someone of your choice. Follow with poems or stories read from members of the bereaved families and/or staff. If you wish it, have a minute of group silence in honour of those departed.
Offer refreshments at the ending of the ceremony.
Regarding your mother, I can only tell you what I did. My mum passed away last year in Brazil; I wasn’t able to attend her funeral. I had a non-religious service at my house where I invited only relatives. We played the music she liked and had an album of photos of her three visits to Australia. After a long reminiscing session when we each spoke about her influence in our lives we planted a tree in her honour in the garden. This was followed by lunch.
Posted by: Lorraine | 11th December 2011 View profile
I would suggest you contact the local church or your regular church group who conducts the church groups.
Bare in mind residents will get emotional.
As for your own family maybe go to the church were the funeral was held and have a personal family service. I am sure the minister of the church will be of help. My sister and I will plan to visit the cemetry were our mum\'s ashes currently are on christmas morning or after lunch. She past away july 16th 2010.
Good luck with your organisation.
I am planning a Memorial Service for deceased Residents, throughout the year.
I also want to have a small memorial service for my mother, while Family are here from overseas.
Can you help me, please?
Rita Osborn
We are already planning for next year. Does anyone have extra ideas for fun activities and games to celebrate Australia Day? This year the thong-throwing competition was a hit, but we would love to hear of other creative ideas.
Also, do you have a skit or short play we could perform (not necessarily for Australia Day)?
Chris from Mackay.
Hi Anne I have done the 12 days of Christmas with my residents the past 2 years, What I do is I pick out 12 residents, each one represents the day of christmas, I give them a printed piece of paper with just the day that that are on it and when we sing the song when we get to that particular day only that resident sings that line. We have so much fun with it as they usually forget who's turn it is and have to rely of me to point at them when its their turn. I hope this helps your activity I found that not everyone remembered what each day was so it works much better if they can read it to remind them. I thought this year I might try the Australian 12 days of Christmas!
Hi!
I work in a private hostel. I want to do a simple, very simple pageant of the 12 days of Christmas. Does anyone have any ideas? I thought I might print up some pictures , put them on a pole of some sort for residents to hold as the song is sung. Maybe have each resident hold some thing relevant to each day e.g. a drum ,pail,or a pipe. Does that sound ok or really lame?
Hi Golden Carer friends, I would really like to go to a diversional therapy conference in Adelaide & would like to know if anyone knows when the Adelaide dates are so I can put in for it asap. Thanks
Each year in December we hold a memorial service [we call it a Remembrance
service] for families of the deceased residents .We send out invitations and
the local Minister takes a short service, about 30 minutes. During the
service we ask families to come up the front to light a candle for their
loved one. We have one for each resident and if there is no family there, a
staff member lights it. We finish off with a cup of tea so people can chat.
Lesley
Hi Mary, I would strongly recommend you spend some time developing a ‘Volunteer’s Program’. Volunteers’ help cannot be underestimated. With volunteers you may have 2 or 3 simultaneously activities. For instance you may have an outdoor activity (supervised by a volunteer); reading group, gardening, high tea. At the same time the residents could enjoy another activity indoors such as balloon playing, Snakes and ladders, sing-along, etc.
Thanks, Solange for this great site. I've been reading the comments of those who have had some bad experiences and I'm one of those too. I moved from the city to be the new DT in a country area, with an acting facility manager in place. The existing lifestyle team resented me from the start, even though I went to great lengths to develop good relationships and a team environment. The nursing management team were bullies, and no one wanted change - except the residents.
The new permanent facility manager abruptly terminated my contract 2 weeks before the end of my 6 months probation with no warning, citing a non-existent performance review and skewed facts. I too, wasn't allowed back.
I did look at redress but then decided against it, as this is a small area. And I also didn't want the stress.
It's interesting to note how many ads have been in the paper since then, for new staff of all persuasions in this facility. I have spoken to others in the street, and they all say the same thing - it's a very unhappy place. How can this be? And how can it be allowed to be??!! We look after people who are in their twilight years, and deserve the best. And this is what they are given!!
I have since decided to quit DT as I am sick of the overwork, underpay and lack of support and respect for what we do. In the past, I was able to ignore all that and focus on the joy and satisfaction our residents gained from the activities and programmes we delivered, WITH JOY AND ENTHUSIASM!! I know I wasn't a perfect DT, but I did made the mistake of putting my residents first and the paperwork and pen pushing second.
I know there are others out there who have had and are having good experiences in our chosen profession. It would be great to hear from them too. Cheers, Sue
from mary
can any person suggest a timetable for a dt with 2 areas to give activities i work very hard sometimes dont get the breaks i need 1 work 9 to 5 one area is diementia the other is residential i love this site i dont have a pool of volunteers and find that care staff complain that they need more activities ispend a lot of my own time preparing for the day
I Thought I would share an idea we came up with for our Melbourne cup Party with everyone. We had all residents sitting at tables, each table had to pick a name for their horse. On a table in the room where the residents could see we had a large sheet of paper drawn up with squares to represent the barriers and racetrack and we used upturned paper cups with cut out pictures of horses and their number attached. Each table had a turn at rolling a large dice, but before they could move they would have to answer a trivia question correctly. This was a lot of fun as the race was called with some very funny names. We thought this would be easier for the mobility impaired residents. It might be a useful idea for next year!
you have had such a bad experience not all aged care homes are the same.
I'd like you to consider giving me a call as I'm looking for someone who may be interested in bineg employed on a casual basis to cover my staff when they are on annual leave or on sick leave. I need a couyple of people actually who have had experiece as lifestyle workers.
I can be contacted on 9895 5562. I'm the lifestyle manager at Inala Village in Blackburn Sth. and I have a great team of lifestyle Recreational Acitvity Officers working for me.
Hope to hear from you
Regards
Clayton Saunders
Jenny I totally understand the same thing happened to myself about 6 mths ago - though l was lucky enough to find this fantastic job - 1 off my formere co workers was forces out after l left.
The residents were devisated and we were not allowed by Management to return for 3 months - we have since been back - they have little if any activities and are so happy to see us - go back see you FRIENDS they need you - visit them and support them we know it hurts but do it for them.
Management have so soul sometimes - it's about people and how we can support THEM - all the best
Posted by: Lorraine | 4th November 2011 View profile
Jenny sorry to hear you have also been through a simualar position. I left my last job for pretty much the same reason. The managers had all three lifestyle staff in tears. which is not fare. We were always told that we are the worst lifestyle team ever at that place by the DON and when we put a suggestion in about out breaks as they didn't corrispond with residents program times we were also told they were sick of it then the management set times and we had no say in it. There budget is rubbish at $75 per month for 61 residents. The management also got one of my assistant in tears which normally she would stand up for her self well. The union were involved and always informed. WE had to keep our own diary. I am working at a new job now and its wonderful. Good luck hope you have a new job. BULLYING IS AN OFFENCE FROM EMPLOYERS and can be reported and if found guilty they can get up to ten years in prison. Union informed us on this. All the best.
I have just left my position, or rather forced out due to bullying from management. Fifth staff member to leave in 12 months. It would appear that some managers and staff feel they have the right to treat the worker however they please. I am very sad to leave my position and my residents are devastated. Any one else been experiencing bullying and how did you deal with it
hi julie, many thanks for your comments, and your support. i might take you up on that offer yet. i have appointment tomorrow for another work placement, fingers cross. age care has really open my eyes re the people that work in the area, dont really care for the residents, thank god all are not like that. i hads a good repore with a lot of the women and men in this home, i have already missed them. i had some concerns in home to what i witness, so i have reported on re the care. they say when one door opens, another door shuts, i know what to expect now. my rights. having done this course, has given me a lot of confidence, plus i came first in all my subjects, having never done this work every before. twenty one years in telecom nz, has given me excellent customer service skills. feeling a little bit sad today, 1500 a week here people are dianosed with dementia, and 1 in 5 people have a mental condition. they are slowly realizing that activities a given a reason to look forward, not many of the a seeing mental health professioinals. the bully told me early in the day that the residents, like me , and i was doing a good job, and i got on well with the staff.
pam
Hi Pam. I hope you didn't think i was giving you a hard time also that was not what i intended to do. I may be a nurse but i do appreciate all the assistance i get from students on voluntary placement. I don't think everyone understands the necessity of meaningful activities for the elderly. The nurse who bullied you clearly doesn't nor does he/she know the meaning of team work. I to get grief from other nurses and have gone home from work in tears but i know the residents i care for enjoy the activity programmes provided.I wish you all the best in your next placement not all places are like that one. If you ever come to Athlone Ireland you would be more than welcome to my place of employment. Take care and all the best.
Reference: Author Pam
I am also new to age care Pam from a background of Corp Management Customer Service. You are right people forget that age care is a service industry also, providing a service standard of excellence to the residents
I wish you all the very best
over three years ago I worked at a Regis and they spend very little money on residents. They wouldnt even buy a DVD player for them to watch movies.working for the Government is better pay I choose the hours I work to fit in with family and I really love the residents and the staff are extremely helpful with large events.
Hope you are treated better at another facility.
Posted by: Catherine | 31st October 2011 View profile
Pam
I am sorry when u are doing work placement the activity person should be explaining everything to u and not getting to do the same thing all the time. Also explaining paperwork
\We are not all like that sorry for you, it should be a good experience not a bad one. Catherine
Solange, thankyou for creating the colouring in library it will help us find them easier and the categories are great could we please have some suitable templates for men as I have recently discovered they will not paint flowers or cartoons, I have been told they are for girls by a male resident who loves to paint. Pauline NSW
dear julie, after what happen at regis belmore on friday, the incident has left me upset i have advised the company where i did my cert 1v through, they will sort it out for me and i move on where i hopefully i be treated in a professional way i expect to be. i liked the patients, enjoyed talking to them and massage there hands. my background is customer service before doing this cert 1v, so i can see already there are problems at this home
pam
Hi Pam. I am an activity nurse facilitating activity programmes where i work. Throughout the year we would have students on work placements and i can honestly say that they are great at assisting me. I am disgusted at my nursing colleague's treatment to you. He/she seems to have forgotten about not only maintaining the dignity of residents but your dignity also. Any professional knows not to air grievences in front of residents. Don't let him/her upset you, you are doing a great job while on placement ensuring the quality of life of the residents is ehanced. Some professionals can feel put out if it isn't them not giving orders. Stand up for yourself but not in front of residents call the nurse aside and explain how you felt. No one should be reduced to tears when you know you are doing a good job.
Posted by: Lorraine | 29th October 2011 View profile
I would like to know how the budget for lifestyle monthly plan is worked out? I worked at one place which i have left now which has 61 residents high and low care and they ge a crapy $75 per month no more. Were i currently work it has 47 residents at present high care and we get $20 per person per month so nov we get $900. Fantastic. I am thinking of reporting the other place as I think it is totaly wrong to not provide afficient amount of budget for the lifestyle department.
There for you CAN NOT provide adiquiet activities to suite residents needs and interests.
I feel for the residents and i am glad i am out of there but feel sorry for the next coordinator who takes place.
Posted by: Lorraine | 29th October 2011 View profile
Hi Pam,
You should not have to go through that at your placement. YOU are NOT a paid worker and the nursing staff/lifestyle staff should be helping you.
The fact that you are going home nearly in tears is not on. They should not yell at you and especially in front of residents, other staff members and visitors. It's bullying otherwise.
I would talk to your training teacher asap and see if you can be moved on or get them to speak with the lifestyle coordinator / staff and Director of Nursing.. You should be enjoying your placement time. It is very sad also that nursing staff in most aged care facilities expect lifestyle staff to be in the lounge all the time except when on breaks.
We also get told if we are to make re arrangements because nursing staff use one of our rooms for there training that it is our problem you figure it out. Just on ending this we had a great meeting with head office and they are informing nursing staff of our position and that nursing staff need to support lifesytle more in assisting residents to activties and nursing need to help also.
i am doing work placement in a high care home in sydney. i done one activity about the queen, and the rest of the time massage the ladies hands. there is serve communcation problems at the home / re the role. we are not nurses not carers, not volunters, we are work placemnet roles in the activitys. i have to do 80 hours to pass my certicate 1v, and i am struggleing leaving in tears, after being told off in front the patients, for asking for a nurse to wheel one of the patients back to her room
I've recently made a career change from the corporate field into management of a small frailcare facility; I love learning more about activities etc that can be implemented for the residents as there was very little done previously. This site is amazing and has proved to be very useful. Thank you.
I have been in the industry for 19 year and manage 2 HACC Day Centres (dementia specific) This is a Web Site that has been needed for a very long time. I tell everyone i know about it.Well Done!
the queens activity went very well i sang songs looked up where she was born, time etc. her age , his age, how many children etc. i had the materials for them to feel, they just looked at it didnt touch the materials. i gave them all the ladies a massage with hand cream they liked that it was called lady carlyle rose, i brought from the chemist. pam
Re Activities related to the Queens Visit
Try a general knowledge group table trivia
Q What bred of dogs does the queen have?
Q Have does the queen acknowledge the people
Q What is her husband\'s name
Q How many children does she have
Q What are thier names
Q Where does she live, country, house name
Posted by: Marina | 30th September 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, Can you put your residents around a table and put objects on it for eg. Large dominoes, Large pack of cards, magazines, assorted
toys (animals etc), wooden puzzles Anything of
interest that is safe. When I do this curiosity gets them, and it often starts them talking or interacting with the other residents. They enjoy picking things up and examining them. Its worth a try.
Marina Dementia Secure Unit
i have to do activitie re the queen visit any ideas for me high care demnetia unit
Posted by: Solange | 13th September 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, regarding ideas for a group of residents with severe cognitive deficit and visual impairment; one thing that have worked in our facility is to place a bunch of pieces of fabrics on top of the table and let them explore it. We find that most residents get interested in it, by looking and folding the fabric and those with visual problems will touch and feel the different textures (cotton, silk, wool, felt, lace, linen, etc). The pieces of fabric should be large enough so if they put it in their mouth they won\'t swallow it.
Hi everyone. Just wondering if anyone would have any ideas for a group of residents with varing conditions from advanced dementia to communication difficulties and visual impairements that they could do on their own while i was facilitating other activities in the unit. I have put a rummage box in sitting room but not proving successful as only one resident so far has taken any interest in it. Other staff appear not to have the time or interest to supervise. Whilist i am not in this sitting room all residents have is the TV which is really not meaningful to them. The residents don't interact with each other due to their illness etc when i am not in the sitting room. Any advise would be grateful. Thank you.
Posted by: MARYANN | 10th September 2011 View profile
hi just on the cooking issue - l have developed a cook book for sessions
Maryann
Hi Pam, I don't know what country you are from but I have found going to the country and visiting animals,
touching of there coats and feeding horses etc. The smell of them brings back those sences that are sometimes lost. the other trips I do is taking them to the seaside and walking or just touching the sand. Walking in the water or just being near the sea watching the waves, birds etc. Going to a lake and having a picnic, Watching kids preform at a school as in nz we can take them to watch the choir, orchestra playing. Going to a museum with the arts as all these can bring back their inabitions of past experiences. If you like I can send you some things. Thanks Debbie
Hi everyone
I am in need of some VERY SIMPLE recipies to attempt with my residents (low Care). I ask for simple recipies because I am such a bad cook!Hope to see some post soon.
Posted by: Catherine | 5th September 2011 View profile
Jenny
In reply to your question on hospital stay. At our Village a question asked in the Diversional Thearapy Personal Profile asks......
If you are in hospital would you like this published in the well wishes in the Resident Newsletter Yes NO
This way as long as they said yes other residents know why they have not seen them as they are in hospital but of course no other informayion is given. Hoped that helped Catherine.
Jenny, this is a hard one. Professionally, residents have the right to privacy: to keep information about themselves from being disclosed: only they can decide who, when and where to share their health information with. Confidentiality is how health care staff treats private information once it has been disclosed to us or others. It is an ethical dilemma which puts the staff member in a tenuous position when a resident sincerely would like to know how their friend is. Unofficially of course, there is always non-verbal communication. Personally, I think all private health information is on a ‘need to know’ basis only: ask yourself if the resident really ‘wants’ to know; ‘needs’ to know or ‘has a right’ to know. It also depends on the length of stay in hospital as residents usually work things out themselves. There may be a legal informed consent form to allow the release of information to other parties, but I’m sure that’s for the benefit of third parties only involved in the health care of the resident. Any other comments?
What happens at other facilities when a resident goes to hospital? Have residents signed a form to give permission to tell other residents of their hospital stay, if so what was the wording on the form signed. It is a problem, as the residents say they are like family to each other, but then are not allowed to know if anyone is in hospital. They do not want to know personal details, just their well being? Any suggestions would be welcome.
Hi Lisa. In regards to cutting residents nails where i work as an activity nurse i cut finger nails only but so do other nursing staff. Chiropodist cuts toenails. When i cut residents nails i also paint them( female residents) so we turn into a beauty session which they love. During these sessions residents open up and will talk about their lives. All females love to be pampered. Good luck in your new post.
Hi Lisa,
I work in a secure dementia wing and I do the
residents nails as an activity. A lot of my
clients have challenging behaviours and it is
easier for me to do it, and I turn it into a pamper session, with a hand massage to finish. It
is a good time for one on one time to chat with the residents. I am a registered D.T.
Hi I have organised our show week with Activities which include a Bar B Q that will be a Country theme staff will be encouraged to wear jeans and chequered shirts on the day we will also have Strawberry Ice Cream Cones for dessert on the day. Activities I have organised is a large clown head with the mouth cut out so the residents can try and throw the ball through the clowns mouth, also I have painted used cans and plan to use them as knock em downs on the day. With prizes awarded ofcourse maybe some home made sample bags!
I have only just started working as a Therapy Assistant, having studied for 6 months at TAFE, so very new to me. Loving it. I do have one question which I would love to get feedback on. Who's responsibility is it to cut residents nails? It seems to be a very grey area where I work - I understand that massage would be therapy but don't understand why it would be our job to cut nails and would love to know if this is standard in this industry.
Hello there Sandra... Our Diversional Therapist has organised for baby animals to visit our facility just a few days after the show here in Brisbane. I am trying to borrow a fairy floss machine and have already organised to make strawberry ice cream cones just like the ones at the Ekka, perhaps dogs on a stick ( permission pending..I have temperature stick firmly in hand:) I'm in the throws of thinking up games which would be similar to side show alley.... quoits, fishing for ducks etc. Hope this helps.....love to hear from other people with ideas. Cheers Gilly
Hi Jenny, this is sure a great way to celebrate the Show Day. Thanks for sharing it with our colleagues. I am also placing a few ideas on the site in the next few days.
Hi Solange, Enjoy your site,Thought I would let you know how we choose activities each month.I work in a long stay hospital,residents aging from 40 to 95 years.I work with another DT and each month we randomly choose a letter of the alphabet [usually 4months in advance for organising]and plan activities beginning with that letter. This month is B so are doing the following----button collage,threading beads, beauty therapy,ballon volleyball, bowls,bible stories,volunteer talking about growing up in Belguim,blowing bubbles,game of beetles,baking bread ,bead, bow and bangle day,making bird pudding [bird food for outside]
Next month is letter K---we have organised someone to bring kittens for a visit,knitting group, karate demo,kite making,kitchen reminescence,playing the keyboard,Kiwiana,words ending in K,display of kilts,knocking on residents doors[reminder to staff].
I have been doing activities for 20 years now and this gives me a new interest and challenge to think of somethingdifferent. We still do the popular activities such as housie,van outings etc.We have 3 units,dementia, frail elderly and young people with disabilities. Lesley Cuthbertson
Hi There, Has anyone had a Country & Western theme day? I would love some ideas for games from anyone who has held such a day. Thanks for the great support.
Hi Carol, One way to do it is by buying a calendar and marking the most popular dates such as Mother’s, Father’s day, Valentine and St Patrick’s days and so on. Then, decide what should be done as the highlights for the year ahead such as: Theme parties, High Teas, cultural celebrations and any other commemoration you plan to do. I also try to have all dates for concerts booked for the whole year if possible. Another thing that should have marked dates is the picnics, bus trips and community outings. It is also important to have dates for skits or pantomimes you intend to do including the dates for rehearsals to start. Make sure you place reminders a week or two before the events so you can plan the action on a monthly basis. See monthly calendar in the website.
Hi Julie, it is really bizarre that your work is not recognized in Ireland. In Australia we tolerated negative comments for years but in my experience it is now much better. Nurses, management and RNs have some degree of respect for what we do and sometimes even assist us with activities by participating (pantomimes, games. skits, karaoke).
Hi Rosanne, I am glad it worked for you. I tried to have Laughing Yoga in a high care facility once and it was a dismal failure.The idea is worthwhile and can bring a lot of fun to participants.
Hi Heather, yes I believe you.The Chicken Pen Care Plan must stipulate who buys the food, who feeds the chickens, who places clean fresh water every day in the pen, who would be in charge to take them to the veterinary when needed, who would be in charge to chase them if it scapes, who administer medication when needed. The good thing is, once the Care Plan is ready and you give each person a copy, there is no ‘pass the bucket’, or ‘not me’ or ‘I forgot’. Remember, to ‘harvest’ the eggs it should be always the residents (accompanied by staff).
Hi Fiona, I am also very interested in the Eden Philosophy Therapy. It is a philosophy that acknowledges that long term care organizations can and should be transformed into true ‘human habitats’; places where our elders would spend their days ‘living’ instead of waiting to die. I am glad to say that in the place I work for we are all well entrenched in this concept. Our residents can choose the time to bathe and the time to dine among other things which differ from the programmatic approach used in many organizations. We also have a wonderful, friendly garden with wide cement paths for wheelchairs, a gazebo with tables and chairs, a large table for craft, a BBQ, elevated herb and vegetable patches, chicken pen and fruit trees.
I would just like to complement all activity personnel and therapists in both Australia and New Zealand. Here in Ireland based on my experience the post is not recognized as a valid one. All activity nurses and carers that i know have to face negative comments on a daily basis.Its very hard to keep motivated for your residents when some staff just don't see the necessity of providing meaningful stimulation for the elderly. Not all units are the same but we still have a long way to go. On the plus side the residents i care for enjoy the activity programme and at the end of the day thats all that matters.
I have been a lifestyle coordinator for 4 1/2 years with a certificate IV and only get paid $19.36 an hour. As we all agree the aged care industry in a low paid industry concidering we all are there to help out elderly and sick residents. All our governments need to look into what we do and how hard it is. We don't get very good monthly budgets either for the residents programs. I work for a 61 high and low care facility and only get $75 monthly budget.
We have to raise funds for everything else which I think is unfare.
Hi Annie, I've been told the award if you have at least cert iv is $23.50. Some facilities do pay the correct award and its worth working for those that do pay correctly. I have worked in a few facilities and each time I greatly miss my previous residents and grow to "love" my new ones. I wouldn't work for less than the award as we already work hard enough and put in so many more hours which we don't get paid for and its because we do love what we do = Commitment.
Hi Annie I work in high care unit for 40 residents and have cert iv and diploma get paid $26 an hour and work 27 hours a week.I job share. rates vary between public and private facilities.
Hi Debbie, I am a registered Diversional Therapist, I also have the Certificate for the
Older Person (I was also a caregiver), when I
was an activities assistant my wages went up to $15.30 when I passed the Cert, Older Person, and
then when I became a qualified registered D.T.
I get $18.00 an hour. Where I work if you havent passed any papers you get minimum wage. If you are thinking of qualifying, I think it is really worth it.
I am afraid we are all very poorly paid. I believe that in the United States and New Zealand it is the same. In Australia we have an award system that indicates how much we earn.However private organizations use their discretion; sometimes paying well and sometimes paying poorly.
Hi Annie, You are so lucky I work in a facility for 43 residence and get paid 14.50 nz but i don,t have a certificate I have been a DT for 11 years and have got caregiving experience behind me. On tthe down side we are under paid and over worked. Wouldn't be in this job except I just love the residence. They have become like family. Have heard that some in this country are on about 16 dollars per hr...Very interested in everybodys response...
Thanks Debbie
Hi everyone. For those of you who don't mind, I was wondering what pay rates other Diversional Therapists have & whether they increase with experience. Myself: nearly 3 years experience; Diploma qualified as DT; work for a 'for profit' organisation in residential aged care facility; have full DT responsibility for 42 bed facility and earn $19.02/hr. No pay rise in past or for the future. NB: this is NOT a criticism/complaint - just curiosity! I would appreciate your reply. Thank you everyone.
Hi I am trying to set up a chook pen at the centre where I work. One of the prerequisites is a care plan for each chook. (not joking). Can anyone help with what I have to do and I would love to hear from other dts who have done the same thing. Thanks
Hi There, I just wondered if anyone one is following The Eden Philosophy. I have just finished my training & I feel very inspired. I would love to hear from anyone using this in their facility. Regards Fiona
Hi Pauline, I do an activity for the sense of smell. I use small gauze jewellry bags and fill
them with different herbs and spices, and we guess
what each ingredient is. I just wash out bags and
change the ingredients for another time, my
residents enjoy this one. Marina
Hi Everyone,Just wanted to pass on some fund raising idea's that is raising money for our resi's. We do the chocolates, & have just started selling cans of drinks for $1.00 and a weekly meat& vegi raffle. Its working out great for us. Good Luck :)
To all
Just read what I posted meant: that do all your work at work. I know at times we all do work at home but if we do this we are telling the bosses we can do all the work needed in the time given when we can't. I lot of us are not full time and have less hours to get things done keep a dairy of what you are doing at work so if the boss turns around and says why did you not get this done you can tell them exactly what you were able to do in the hours you are allocated. If you do want more hours but are doing the work at home (getting it done)the boss won't see the need.
Catherine D/T
To all
Wow I have never came in to work and had so many comments from this forum in one morning. Yes Yes Yes are job is very hard and truly we are the only ones who know this. When i am on holidays someone might fillin for some activities as there is always an excuse staff sick so there was no one but when they do it is only for the activity and they write down the names of those who have attended. So they do think the job is as easy as anything. Only we know how much work is done behind the scenes. If you belong to a larger company with other Villages meet with them. I organise for the RAO's and D/Ts at my company to get together once every second month it is fantastic the ideas we share are great!
Also look for the D/T Australia Assoc local meetings for your area, this is a way to talk to others not related to your company but area. I chair the local group in my area and its great we have an educational every month and talking to others always helps. If some of you are having great trouble with no office or computer try to get yourself a laptop use this at work but placing the forms you use on it and try try try to organise the activities for time that you can do the work needed at home. Write a letter to the chairman of the company and ask for a computer with internet access ( I did and i did not believe it but got it) I was lucky. The main thing is for us all to talk to others and share so we do not think where alone and knock the socks of the accreditors each time they come so WE STAND OUT!
Catherine D/T
dear robyn I will take this comment on board as it is like that you always think you could have done a little bit more.I suppose I am hard on myself just want the residents to have fun through there transition of getting older and coping away from home....And try to make it as homely as possible. They are my life I carnt even turn off when at home and when I shop I am always looking for things for them eg presents crafts and different places to visit..Thanks again for the comments..NZ get only half of what the dts get in Australia. But I work for the resis.....It would be nice for a pay rise. ahe....
I am very lucky where I work, except never having enough time to do all things properly. But another Lifestyle Manager gave me this advice, to do the best you can at the time and don't be hard on yourself. I love working in aged care, previous job was in a bank and now consider myself very lucky to have the job I have. So I try to stay positive and I have worked as a carer in disability so understand a bit about the care side, so try to help out when I can. I always say we don't get paid much so lets have a pleasant working environment, be nice to and support each other.
i too have the same problem i have a lot of work that i have to use my computer at home.i am almost complete with DT training i too struggle to be heard
To Debbie. I have to share the computer with our office lady and it is very difficult at times to get time on the computer. I dont have a desk or office. I do my paperwork at the one the tables in our dining room. I do look up ideas on the internet at home and work on my monthly calendar. I enjoy reading the comments on this site.
Why does everyone think our job is a walk in the park. I am sure that you are all like me, thinking about the job 24/7. I have no where to hang my hat, and like anyone who does our job, I totally love it,the residents are like family to me.
I agree with all the comments below NO 1 Our police is 5 to one ratio in the van and outings in the community. Need a volunteer for any wheelchairs and walkers as while your attending them your helper, volunteer etc can be looking after the other resis incase of wondering etc....It is just a shame in our facility I don't get any help and everything is done with the resis..morning tea and lunches etc are all on my own as for the caregivers helping with the resis to get to outings I have asked those that have been dressed and showered etc to then bring them down to activities..When they have finished morning tea or lunch bring them to where I am going to be whether it is for a trip lounge sunroom etc... I can tell you this but it is an on going battle there excuse is they have there own work to do.....and so on...I do morning teas for them from the resis and I do fundraising so they can have a really fun night out even to the extent of decorating tables with thankyou notes etc. Boss just makes the remark that your only there babysitter...I get quite offended by this as the care and resposibilty we have is so much more greater..For example RN has to ask me what is what with there health there dislikes what can they do etc...We have so much paper work that repeats itself and your forms are very simular to ours but our facility is double..I think the only people that understand what is going on in a dts life from day to day is all of us...I say I love my job but this sight has helped me with support and you don.t feel as if your working all on your on....Ps sorry for the gripe but I don't even have a place of my own to do my work...Question do others have a office or commputer or anything I have to do all my stuff like this at night.
I have recently started my certificate iv in health and leisure and I am finding some of the case studies on values/conflict/ ethical behaviour a challenge has anyone got any advice.
Thanks Linda
Teamwork seems to be a common problem at a lot of facilities. My suggestion is to befriend the staff (AINs, Kitchen, Cleaners etc), spend time with them and listen to their advice/suggestions. People are loyal to people, not companies or departments. Always ensure you thank staff for helping out when they can: I sing their praises over the pager and at every resident meeting. Any leftover or extra ‘treats’ (sweets, nice coffee, chocolates etc) I leave in the staff room for them to enjoy and let them know it’s from the DT department. Help out the AINs when you can eg mealtimes or supplements. Get the residents to make special ‘staff appreciation’ cards or do a small poster with top 10 reasons we love our AINs. Nurse’s Day has just been and gone – an ideal opportunity to show some appreciation for nursing staff. I have found nursing staff have far more consistent, long-standing and personal, therapeutic relationships with residents than I could ever find time to have with each & every one. Supporting nurses in turn supports that relationship and residents are enriched. 'It takes a village to raise a child' etc. I find that building and maintaining supportive relationships with other staff members brings far more reward, co-operation and understanding than new policies, in-services or orders from management. Good luck!
Hi Julie,
That used to happen where I work until several
care staff did my job when I was away, and their
tune changed.
Marina - Secure Demential Unit.
Hi Julie,
I agree with you about your comment 100%.
Staff always think all we do is play games. As soon as they are offered to help or offered a position in this area they always seem to decline. They don't realise the amount of preparing and energy that goes into it. I would suggest when new staff come on board to give them an orientation day into lifestyle also. This will give them the opportunity to see the inside of our work. They may see differently and help us more. I do find we get limited help also to bring residents down to programs.
There has to be a way we can get other staff to support us D/T staff better.
Hi Julie, It is really sad that there are still people with this sort of attitude. We are a vital part of the various disciplines required to deliver optimal health care in hostels and nursing homes. People often forget that our elders are going through major changes in their lives where confidence and stamina are often low. Can you imagine if the spiritual, emotional and recreation assistance we provide would be taken away? The results could well be further social isolation, depression and other ills. I am glad to hear management is supportive. Perhaps if you could involve the staff in some activities so they would realise it is not as easy as they think. I often invite staff to participate in all theme parties, festivals, karaoke, singing duos on Valentines, Christmas carols, horse race and hat parade on Melbourne cup, limbo rock on Hawaiian Luau, etc. Good luck!
Hi there
I work in a high care facility with a special needs unit (SNU)attached. When we take SNU residents out on the bus (they don't get off)ratio is two staff plus excellent helpful driver, to 17 residents. When we take nursing home residents out, depending on where we are going and how many wheelchairs, we take three staff plus driver and as many volunteers as we can get (usually one or two).
Thanks for a great site. Is there a possibility of adding a Forum to this site, as there appears to be many people (like me) who work pretty much alone. It's good to have other DT's/Lifetylers to bounce ideas and questions off.
Thanks Solange
Hi there. I work as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Diversional&Recreational Activities for the elderly. I work in a 43 bedded long stay unit. While i know the residents enjoy the activities programme available my biggest problem is other staff. They view my job as a "cushy" one and their comments are very often demeaning. Does anyone have any suggestions to motivate other staff to get involved and see the job as a vital and necessary one. Management are very supportive.
Hi, I don't even remember I got here but I am glad I did! I'm just starting out working with Age Care as a Diversional Therapy Assistant in a whole new different cultural setting and had been searching for a site such as yours. What a blessing! Awesome site and keep up the good work! Cheers! Jasmine
To Jenny
I work for a low care facility bus holds 17.
Driver and me, but if it is an activity which I beleive will be difficult I will have less residents attend. Stil driver and me. Hope thats a help Catherine D/T.
Hi Jenny,
I worked in an RSL Hostel which was considered 'low care' at the time. All residents could move without aids and most had good cognition. We took them on community trip twice a month. The bus fitted sixteen people so we had 14 residents and two staff members. We also had a wonderful driver who gave us a hand whenever needed. These days I work in a high care facility and our bus takes twelve people and 4 wheelchairs. However we only take 5 or 6 residents and only two wheelchairs. The ratio is two staff members but we always try to involve some of the residents relatives to accompany us. This makes a big difference because they can look after their loved ones and also give us a hand if necessary. Again, we have a wonderful bus driver who helps a lot; which makes three (four, if we can persuade a relative to go) of us to look after 7 or 8 residents. It is not easy, I know. I often have a headache from stress when I go on community buses. The responsibility is enormous.
Every facility has their own policies, this is an example only from places I worked before. I hope this can help you.
Cheers,
Solange
Hi Solange
Thank you for a great site!
On March 17 you replied to Scott re a group membership option. I am a member of Golden Carers myself and my boss has offered to pay for my membership when it comes due and asked if there was an option for a group membership so that the other Lifestyle staff could benfit from your wonderful site too. Could you please forward the information? Thanks, Sue
I have enclosed some photos from our australia day BBQ.....these were taken at Blue Care Toowoomba.
We have 4 Diversional therapist working in this facility and we all love Golden Carers. Thank you, Suzie Ross
Hi, there are conferences going in Brisbane and Melbourne in the coming weeks ahead. For the Brisbane Conference ring Alzheimer's Australia and for Melbourne ring Diversional Therapy Australia. In Adelaide there will be a Workshop in April. Ring DT Australia.
Hi Solange,
My name is Lorraine. I work in a very small aged care facility. We have 14 very high care residents which over half are bed ridden. Is there any suggestion for a program that I could conduct or these residents with special high care needs. Some are in a princess chair. Alot can not move and don't really talk.
I would love to hear any suggestions from you and any one else. Thank you for your time.
This site is fantastic.
If you run a AFL football tipping competition with your residents. The season start next Thursday 24th March 2011. I charge $5 for the season though you can run a free one. I hand out a weekly tipping sheet with last week's results and the ladder on the back. A resident is helping to check the results. It is a lot of fun.
Hi Scott, we do offer discounts for group memberships - I have sent a group membership form to your email address.
Posted by: Scott McLaren | 17th March 2011 View profile
Just a query, i was wondering if you have the capacity to set up a group membership with multiple sign ins. St Laurenve have a number of lifestyle/recreation departments whose staff would benenfit from having accsess to your site? Thank you for your time.
Hi Debi, we had an Ekka day last year. We had some residents decorate and fill small bags with goodies eg: small chocs, chips, as sample bags, also played games such as knock em downs also had a art and craft exhibition with residents displaying their craft and had other residents and staff judge the 1st , 2nd ,3rd and gave winners a certificate and scratchies/choc. the residents loved the fairy floss , you may be able to find someone who has a small fairy floss machine and make your own a lot cheaper i\'m sure. how about having small animal nursery visit . good luck gail
Hi my name is Debbie and I have lots of ideas for crafts..We are doing lots of fundraising to help on our big trips which consistes of hiring a mobilty bus.. on top of our budgit we always need to do extra to help with entertainment etc..This is a note to Zsuzsanna We would be interested in a penpal exchange as we live in New Zealand we would love to share...have lots of ideas hope I can help
Posted by: Zsuzsanna | 14th January 2011 View profile
Hi, my name is Zsuzsanna, and if anyone has any idea how I can join a penpal program for nursing home residents, would they please let me know?
I have found one program in the States but was hoping for something in Australia.
Hi solange The other markets to go to for games and puzzels are carrara markets on the gold coast and I use baby wipes to clean my wooden puzzles and make sure the residents that use them have nothing contagious that they can pass on.
Hi everyone, recently I got two very good puzzles from Aldi for $10.00 each and my residents love them as they go across two tables and they are large enough to see and handle with poor vision and arthritic hands. I also got from the local markets near my home town some raised puzzles with pegs in them that fit into shapes on puzzle boards for high care residents to feel and see where they go. They did not cost much. May I suggest that you visit the nerang markets on your way to pacific fair one weekend as I know thay have great education and children' toy booths with what you may be looking for at decent prices.
Posted by: Christine | 11th January 2011 View profile
We arent able to have wooden puzzles at our facility due to infectious diseases control. Wooden puzzles sometimes cannot be cleaned without damaging the picture. Does anyone else have the same measures in place for resources?
Hi Kelly - I shop on E-Bay a lot for work resources; just search for "wooden jigsaw puzzles" and see what's on offer. There are nice wooden puzzles at shops called "Riverview Gifts Galore" and "Active Brains Busy Hands" which would be suitable for adults with dementia. Good luck. Annie
Posted by: Christine | 10th January 2011 View profile
Hi Ive purchased 2 great ones from http://www.boxndice.com.au/ they are made from recycled tyres and plastic bottles can be wiped for infection control. Hope that hepas
Hi everyone my name is Kelly from Blackburn, Melbourne. im in need of jigsaw puzzles for Dementia residents, i've found a couple in certain web sites but they retail at about $100.00 + i am after something abit cheaper, they need to be suitable for 2nd stage dememtia residents. Any help with this would be greatfully appreciated. Thanks Kelly DT.
Can anyone recommend some entertainers in the Brisbane area for small group entertainment in our lounge or groups to perform in our hall for under $100? We have a 1:1 monthly flute therapy which everyone enjoys! thanks Helen
I am part of a Dementia project that we are about to commence in the local community. This is a 'Memory Lane Cafe' type project where people (approx 65yo+) with memory loss and their family, carers or friends gather on a monthly basis for afternoon tea, allied health info and entertainment.
We are looking for some new entertainers to use, anyone have ideas? Our project is based in the Melbourne West Metro area.
Thanks
Hi my name is Anna.I've set up a trolley with nick nacks which i take around the facility 2-3 times a week for residents to purchase goodies.I have also made available cans of coke etc which i keep in my fridge for staff to purchase for $2 a can.The money raised from these two activities is separate from my monthly budget.I need to record this activity either on Excell or Ledger but am not quite sure how to record all this as well as fun raisers.The solution is probable staring me in the face,but i just feel i need YOUR input on how best to record these moneis....by the way...i hate dealing with money...
Posted by: Lorraine | 27th December 2010 View profile
Hi,
My name is Lorraine. I will be doing shifts as a lifestyle coordinator from the hours of 11am to 5:30pm monday to friday. There are already programs in place but I may need to change some.
Wednesday 30th December is my first day and we have accreditation visit also. I am looking into changing there attendance records to tick format not written format in which they currently have. This will save time also.
Hi every one... my name is Nadia and I have been using this website for a number of month. I live in Canada and working in Adult Day Program. Do you have any ideas for man programs? We cannot do much outside because we have a lot of snow and all our acti8vities should be indoor. Any idea?
Posted by: christine | 29th November 2010 View profile
Hi
Love your site. Can you do a list of companies that offer for free or little charge services eg bus trips for the nursing homes that have little money . As the staff are continually running raffles or digging into thier own pockets for the residents that they care for.
Thanks Chris
Dear Annie, I have just read your blog, yes it is very hard to find time to do everything. I don't do any nursing duties unless on outings.
I love digging around the Golden Carers site as it is very helpful to get idears. Alzeimers Australia has a great website to look at as they have some good ideas as well. Sue
Posted by: Heather | 11th November 2010 View profile
Hi Maryann, Im a recreational activities officer 40 high care residents. I work 7hrs per day mon-fri and although never enough time in the day my schedule goes a little like this. activities: 8.30 -9.15 Room visits, 9.30 -10.00 exercises, 10.00-10.20 m/tea residents and myself, 10.30 -11.30 activities, residents have lunch, I assist nursing staff with feeds, 12.30-1pm my lunch break,1-2pm admin, 2.00-3.00pm activities either group or one on one for bedfast residents. 3.00- 4.00pm admin... hometime. hope this helps u.. regards Heather
Posted by: MARYANN | 11th November 2010 View profile
thanx all for the feedback on days/hrs - very varied/interesting thanx again keep it coming
maryann ellis
Posted by: Patricia | 11th November 2010 View profile
Hi i work as an activities co-ordinater and my hours of work are 0800 to 1600
Posted by: Christine | 11th November 2010 View profile
To Maryann I work as an Activities Officer in a 9 bed residential high care MPS (multi purpose service) I have 20 hours which is group activities,one on one, admin and also some community contact.I work 4 days x 5 hours.
To Maryann - I work as DT in a 42 bed mixed needs residential facility and have 31 hours allocated Monday to Friday for DT duties + admin duties + shopping etc - it\'s very hard. No weekend work allowed by management (no time left over anyway!). As far as I know, DTs do not attend to ADL duties unless you are rostered on duty as an AIN and have Cert. III Aged Care. It\'s ok to help out occasionally when needed but not as a rule as it takes away from DT time. Solange would be great to have section for DTs to upload their calendars or any paperwork so we get an idea of what is offered and how. I read of so many wonderful ideas but have no practical time to implement much unless I do more work from home so just keep to the bare minimum. Nice to read everyone\'s comments and feel part of a DT community. Annie
Hi the qld course is now called a certificate IV in Leisure and Health it used to be called a cert IV in Community services ( Lifestyle and Leisure). I work as a Diversional therapist 27 hours per week.
I have MOndays off as I have a volunteer who comes in and we have weekly entertainment. Tue/wed/thurs I work 9-4.30 and Fridays I finish a little earlier. I have a recreation officer who does 4 hours on a saturday. My unit has 40 residents. We do group activities in the mornings and 1.1 individual therapy and paperwork in the afternoons. Hope this helps you Helen.
hi l still need feedback on hours off work for D.T.s can a few people please tell me their work hours program hrs etc this includes activity co ordinators too thanx MARYANN ELLIS
Hi Jessica, doing my Certificate IV in community services(lifestyle and leisure) through Bremer TAFE,located in ipswich Qld. Doing this via correspondence, is great as I work fulltime and can do this in my spare time.I volunteer at an aged care facility as hours are required to be completed in a facility as a part of the course. Good Luck. Hope you find a course to suit you. Regards Gail
hi yeh jess contact Diversional Therapy Australia located in Sydney also login to REDLEAF EDUCATION they have distace ed which may be what u are lookingg for Maryann Horsham VICTORIA
Hi Jessica, most TAFE colleges have DT courses in Queensland. Ring one of them and ask them to send you the information booklet. You can choose to do the Certificate IV or the Diploma.
Hi, I am actually a speech pathology student (previously an AIN in residential aged care) and I am trying to find out about the study requirements to be a diversional therapist. I cannot seem to find any relevent courses in Queensland. Any pointers?
Jessica
Hi, Just thought others would like to know that the queensland government have made the 7th of November "grandparents Day". Recognising grandparents in our community. 2010 is the first year. Realise it is a bit late to tell you but you now know for next year. I volunteer at an aged care facility and we have printed certificates to give to the residents. Go to qld govt"grandparents day" site and you will find posters ,certificates that can be downloaded .
Hi Solange,I am an activities officer for 40 High Care residents in a nursing faciltiy and have enjoyed your site and used many ideas which have seen more smiles on my residents faces which makes my job so worthwhile and satisfying. I was wondering if you had any ideas on fun ways to run an exercise class to help with mobility and movement. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks Heather
I have just subscribed to the website...I can see it is going to be very helpful.
Could anyone help me with a calendar(monthly/weekly/fortnightly)different to the norm....help...please
Hi Wendy - Men’s activities that work for me are: dominos, gardening, conversation (Men’s Club), any game that uses a dice, sanding and painting old furniture, carpet bowls, bowling, Hoy, and lately Wii game consoles.
Posted by: Solange | 30th September 2010 View profile
Hi, regarding affordable presents for volunteers. You could assist residents to make book-marks as instructed in the website, but do it in scraps of colourful leather. I was given one in yellow leather with a giraffe's head at the top. I love it! You could also assist them to make small containers from clay and then decorate them. Working with clay provides a wide range of experiences - creative, tactile, and pleasurable.The firing can be done with or without a kiln. Fifteen years ago when I was working for the RSL in Pinjara Hills, a sight deficient gentleman made me a small container. It is one of my prized possessions ever. I will place a photo of it for you to see soon.Cheers, Solange
Hi Wendy, We brought all our volunteers little glass angels from a cheap shop (reject cheap as chips etc) & they come in a nice box only $2 each & picked a small posy of flowers for them all & invited them to have lunch with the residents. I talked with kitchen staff & came up with a nice meal & the volunteers loved it. You could also take just the volunteers out for a coffee & cake this way they don't have to do anything, they can be waited on. As for male volunteers! Im at a loss myself & am waiting for replies. Hope this helps, Kind regards Fiona
http://yooyahcloud.com/VOLUNTEERSA/eISoYb/Books__merchandising_old_logo__for_web.pdf - This is a link to Volunteering SA where they have great volunteering badges $3.20 each you could give out to your wonderful volunteers. I also make a heart shaped card with 'Volunteering is a work of heart' on it and give with heart shaped chocolates in a bag. You can give petrol vouchers or hold a special lunch at a fixed price venue (some Bowls clubs have $5 lunches!). Good volunteers are such an asset. As for getting men to an activity: gardening is especially effective and having male guests to help out at activities encourages the men to come out more - I know it is so hard! Such a female dominated environment. Good luck! Annie
Hi Wendy - 20 volunteers is a wonderful asset to you! Ideas for presents: the usual wine/chocolates, petrol vouchers, small plants or cater a special lunch just for them. Also hand out certificates of appreciation and attached is a website that has wonderful volunteer badges to give - only $3.20 each to show your appreciation. http://yooyahcloud.com/VOLUNTEERSA/eISoYb/Books__merchandising_old_logo__for_web.pdf
I give out little cards too saying: 'Volunteering is a work of heart' with heart chocolates. Good volunteers are really a treasure. Annie
hi all ,would anyone out there have simple ideas to make /give to our volunteers, all in all we have approx. 20, so costing be minimal ?? Also ways to get "the blokes"out and interested in activities. In our facility we have the majority female residents ,tryed many different ideas for the guys ?? And hey wouldnt it be nice to have more male carers as well !! ? Thanks heaps for this web site ...loving it
Hi There, I would really love some fresh ideas for Afl grand final day. If anyone would like to give feedback on what they do it would really help. Thanks
Does anyone have any suggestions for Afl grand final, We are having a bacon & egg breakfast & i wanted to try different Games but im at a blank right now. Help please.
Regarding Care Plan for Chickens.
I would suggest developing a Pet Care Plan.
Including; type/s of animals, food and water requirements, when to feed, who
will feed and when, maintenance of bedding and housing etc.... Regards Sue
Posted by: Solange | 19th September 2010 View profile
We have recently purchased a chicken coop and the excitement of the residents is palpable. They go for a walk to the chicken coop all day long.We only have three chickens and when we finally got some eggs, well, didn't everybody wanted to touch them, show them off and, cook with them!
It was a tremendous success in our case.
Posted by: sharon | 18th September 2010 View profile
you have recently added pet therapy with a dog have you got any evidence based documention for chickens
Posted by: Solange | 17th September 2010 View profile
Having a basic understanding of one or more of the following can help you enhance your activity program: Aromatherapy, Massage Therapy, Horticultural therapy and multi-sensory therapy.
Posted by: Catherine | 17th September 2010 View profile
Helen found sound for health and multisensory very good as accreditation want sensory programs, its important. Did 2 days. Catherine
Hi Just wondering what courses anyone has taken other than their diversional therapies studies that have been beneficial to their workplace. eg. aromatherapy or massage. Thanks Helen
Posted by: Solange | 6th September 2010 View profile
Hy Maryann, where I work we have activities shifts 7 days a week from 7:30am till 7:30pm. It is a High Care facility and we do a lot of individual activities with our clients. Massage, reading, conversation, music listening, poems, scrap book making, bean bags games, card playing, reminiscing, and many other sensory suitable activities.
Posted by: MARYANN | 5th September 2010 View profile
yes l need info on ACFI too please thanx MARAYNN
Posted by: MARYANN | 5th September 2010 View profile
At present we have a fantastic activites program which we are always trying to improve our management now wants our activities staff to do PERSONNAL CARE WORK in the pm as they are short staffed does anyone else do this?? we have a 6 day a week program and provided activities on sundays also - not as formal as weekdays, l would love some feed back and some activities times/hours from other facilities and programs used HELP maryann
Thanks Solange for postcards exchange section. I hope this will generate a lot of interest and excitement within facilities and forge ties with other facilities.
I would like to make special mention of Elizabeth's bio from Feilding from New Zealand.
Her love for her work shone brightly. She is an absolute inspiration for anyone- including me that sometimes becomes discouraged within the workplace. You have made my day Elizabeth!
Cheers Kerry
Hi Debbie regarding the clown day I know of a Rao who got a pony in & had it outside for the residents to pat & talk with the owner. I hope you may be able to contact someone as this was very successful. Kind regards Fiona
The password exchange program has now been setup on the website - there is a new link at the bottom of the right hand vertical menu for members entitled 'Postcard Exchange'. Those of you who have already expressed an interest in the program have been added to the program however you may like to edit your details. Let me know how it goes!
Posted by: Christine | 15th August 2010 View profile
be nice to network really Kirsten I find theres very little support sometimes for DTs
Hi all. I would like to put my workplace address forward to the postcard exchange/penpal idea. We are currenlty in the process of having a dementia unit added to our facility and feel this would be great for ALL our residents.
Cheers
Hi everyone, just wanted to say once again i am really enjoying this site. Im a newly appointed Lifestyle Coordinator at a high care facility and we are having our annual clown day soon. Our lifestle girls & staff will all be dressed up in clown suits, we are having a magician coming in to entertain the residents & will be making popcorn,fairy floss,icecream cones in sherbert & sprinkles & spiders. Has anyone any other ideas please ? if so i would love you to share them. Thankyou Debi :)
Hi Solange, I am currently working as an AO/DT in a NSW facility and I am very interested in signing up for the postcard exchange program you are trying to get up and running. I feel it would be good for my Dementia Residents to have pen Pals from other states and this sounds a great way to do it. Pauline
Hi Kim, thanks for your feedback. We have had a number of people expressing interest in participating in a post card exchange so we are creating a special section on our website to facilitate this. We'll send out a newsletter with all the details in the next few days.
Thanks Catherine! I have sent an email to you and Kerry so that you may exchange addresses and get started with the postcard exchange.
Posted by: Kim Needham | 27th July 2010 View profile
The postcard idea is great. We have 4 nursing homes on campus and at least 2 at this stage would like to be on the list for postcard exchange. We would particularly like people from other cultures eg Latvian, Lithuanian, German and Russian. Kim
Love to give kerry my email so our low care facility can send them a post card and exchange. I have a pen pal in south Australia another Village and it's great. Please give her my email address so we can exchange addresses and ill send a post card and a picture of us writing on it Thanks
Hi Kerry, it is a good idea. I will try to get a group of Nursing Homes willing to have their addresses on Golden Carers for that purpose.
Posted by: kerry Bickerton | 23rd July 2010 View profile
Hi Solange
Our Residents love to receive post cards from other facilities.The cards generate a lot of discussion.I wold love to exchange postcards with other aged care organisations around Australia & New Zealand.Can you facilitate this in any way?
Hi, I\'ve just become a co-ordinator of a social club. Amazing clients but challenging and last couple of weeks have been tough but now I think I am going to sail along! Amazing site! SO glad I stumbled upon it. Can wait to try things out and add some ideas and comments. Thankyou!
Hi Michelle, I have made folders of both male & female movies stars with their biographies. GREAT SUCCESS for an activity which can be "pulled out" or planned. I collected my information by just googling Movie Stars, you will find plenty! Good luck. Cheryl
Just joined, this site is very informative. I just put my application as an activity officer today......if I will get the job, this would be very helpful. All the information here, is awesome. Thanks....
great website - just been told by a quality improvement contractor on site that a one on one can be 5 mins and counts?? i was under impression it was 30minutes and could be spread over the day? im in nsw. Any ideas? thanks
Hello Solange,
I have been working in aged care for the past few years with the desire to do more Diversional Therapy work. I see the need for a more Holistic approach to give those in care improvement and a reason to exist with fufilment and dignity. I now have that opportunity by my director to join the team we have at our facilty. Look forward to information from this site and learning from other skilled person's in this field of work who pass on valuable info for us all to give a better life to those with Dementia. Thankyou..
Hi Solange, the site looks awesome and very easy to get around. Just wondering if there is any info on gentle seated exercise for dementia specific people on DVD? Im just starting out as a DT in acute high care and am looking for DVD's I can use in the morning for the residents. I have also passed on your site to other DT's at my facility and they are very excited! Well done, you have some great ideas and the site will be invaluable to me and others.
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Posted by: Martine | 18th May 2012 View profile
what care should I expect from a demitia unit in an aged care facility, I am not content in the way my dad has been cared for, However Im not sure of the care to expect, dad refuses showers, so they dont shower him! is this common practice? other residents sleep in his bed?
Posted by: Lifestyle | 18th May 2012 View profile
Hi there, I was wondering if anyone could give me some ideas' for gifts for Father's Day. I have run out of original ideas now and am really struggling to think of something.
Posted by: Katrina | 4th May 2012 View profile
My work place has asked me to place an ad in the local newspaper asking for voluntees.Any ideas for the notice .Thanks
Posted by: Jan | 1st May 2012 View profile
can we upload photographs onto here?
Posted by: Marie Rose | 1st May 2012 View profile
TAFE student needs some questions prepared to tape a Reminiscing activity with some seniors in a multicultural drop in centre. Meeting is tomorrow 2nd of May. Thanks heaps.
Posted by: Marina Macfarlane | 1st May 2012 View profile
Jan, The muffs sound great. I have made two fiddle aprons and I appreciate how long they take and how much love goes into them. Good work, would love to see pictures.
Posted by: Solange | 1st May 2012 View profile
Thanks for your comments Jan. Yes, you can upload photos. Please click on: Get Involved > Submit Your Activity Photos from the right hand vertical members menu. Here is a direct link: http://www.goldencarers.com/submit-photo.php
Posted by: Debbie | 1st May 2012 View profile
Hi What are sensory mats excuse my ignorance
Posted by: Catherine | 30th April 2012 View profile
Jan the twiddle muffs sound fantastic. I would love to see a pic! The sound a little similar to the sensory mats that we use.
Posted by: Jan | 30th April 2012 View profile
I have just spent the weekend making twiddle muffs from an old fleecy blanket, some wadding and nice material. I made a padded roll that the person can put their hands in, this feels soft, warm and comforting. Inside I sewed a small bag of bean bag beads so they can 'fiddle, one myff has a small squeezy ball inside a bag ( sewn inside) On the outside I have sewn ribbons, beads on ribbon, small tinkly bells, zips, toggles, buttoned velcro strips. I would post photos but not sure how to. I have been looking these up on the internet and the ones on offer are childish and not thought out. Plus they are very very expensive! I am taking two to work on Tuesday to try them out and will post back to let you know how I got on:)
Posted by: Solange | 30th April 2012 View profile
Hi Jan, It is commendable the fact that you spent the weekend doing unpaid work for the love of your residents! Your dedication is certainly impressive. Congratulations! Please let us know how you go. I agree with you, the price for buying twiddle muffs is just too high. Luckily for your residents they have a dedicated worker who is creative and can sew. All the best, Solange
Posted by: Solange | 30th April 2012 View profile
Hi Terry, You can find "Tissue Flowers for Mother's Day" under the May calendar. They are easy to make and very beautiful. Cheers, Solange
Posted by: Terry | 29th April 2012 View profile
do you have the instructions on how to make tissue carnations,would like to make some for residents for mothers day .thonks
Posted by: mary | 28th April 2012 View profile
i too have a small budjet i have made lavendar bags to put on coat hangers i got every thing from $2 shop and spotlight mary
Posted by: Helen | 27th April 2012 View profile
I make little posies for all the ladies. Put them in a fridge covered with wet hand towel. Leave a note for staff to put on their breakfast tables for Mother's Day Helen
Posted by: Helen | 27th April 2012 View profile
I make little posies for all the ladies. Put them in a fridge covered with wet hand towel. Leave a note for staff to put on their breakfast tables for Mother's Day Helen
Posted by: Chantal | 24th April 2012 View profile
Hi there, I was wondering if anyone could give me some ideas' for gifts for Mothers Day. I have run out of original ideas now and am really struggling to think of something. Our budget is VERY tiny.
Posted by: Solange | 19th April 2012 View profile
Hi Valerie, To tell you the truth I have never celebrate the DT week. However, I believe that any excuse is a good excuse to have a celebration. Here is one idea on how to do it. How to celebrate Diversional Therapy week Many facilities celebrate it with a morning tea and activities for staff, residents and their relatives and volunteers. The idea is to promote the benefits of leisure and recreation for people living in long term care organizations and other health care facilities. Some of the activities featuring on this special day should be the ones highlighting the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of clients which recreation staff strives to meet on a daily basis; often without much support and/or funds. I hope this can be of some help. Cheers, Solange
Posted by: Valerie | 17th April 2012 View profile
How do I best promote Diversional Therapy week in May? Thanks Valerie
Posted by: Catherine | 13th April 2012 View profile
Perhaps you could give him a couple of smaller portions. I'm not sure if that will solve the problem, it really depends on why he is doing it. Perhaps he feels he has to eat quickly or someone will take his food. I encountered a lady who used to 'shovel' her food in & it would go everywhere, she has Huntingtons Disease. You could try seating him away from those who find it extremely offensive, but not on his own as he will feel excluded from the group.
Posted by: Angela | 11th April 2012 View profile
One of our residents with dementia fills his mouth too full and doesn't swallow quickly enough when eating to the point of food falling out of his mouth. This is upsetting for other residents and embarassing for his family. Some feel physically sick to see it. We've tried prompting him to stop putting food in, but he gets cranky asking if we think he can't even feed himself. Any suggestions?
Posted by: Catherine | 10th April 2012 View profile
Thank you all for your advice. On our daily program we just list activities in the dementia wing as eg: "Activities" 2pm-3pm, so depending on whats happening on the day we do a few different activities in smaller groups....
Posted by: Robyn | 9th April 2012 View profile
hi everyone, i would like to set up a support group for families with a member with dementia. Any ideas how to run it would be gratefully received
Posted by: Susan | 9th April 2012 View profile
Hi Catherine. Engaging late stage dementia elders is challenging. Sensory stimulation is a great tool. In regards to questions, I find that if you have a converstion with them, bringing in a question is not so challenging for them. Let me share with you a recent experience. A new relder came into our facility and I asked - in converstion - did you have any hobbies, to which she replied no I have had a hip replacement, this made me realise that she hadn\'t computed the question but then went on to say, I know all about those because I was a nurse. I then said yes I was a nurse and found that gardening was a great releif for me after work, the reply was yes I love gardening, So you see what I mean, and in our facility also we try and engage the elders in normal household chores, asking them to help you out as it would be a great help becaue you are so busy. This way they feel useful . Of course don\'t forget that what works one day may not work the next. Now I have a question on programming, . coming up for accreditation how do you set a programme when everyone is so different , I do put subject to change and add individual I would be interested to know how others faired when being accredited.
Posted by: Solange | 8th April 2012 View profile
Hi Catherine, I know what you are saying; it is very challenging to engage residents actively in activities. My suggestions would be to keep trying different levels of difficulty. If your clients suffer from second or third stage dementia it is better not to present too many activities that require spoken answers. Try puzzles, sorting by color and size; singing, coloring, easy crafts and daily living activities. By doing this sort of activities they eventually gain some confidence and you can go on to other things. Continue with the smaller group sessions, with the help of volunteers if possible. This way participants can have the attention and assistance they require. All the best!
Posted by: Catherine | 8th April 2012 View profile
Solange, I find it difficult to get my residents to participate in activities such as puzzles or quizzes... I have tried a number of times only to get blank stares when I ask the questions, which is upsetting bcoz I feel that I must be doing something wrong? Even asking questions that relate to them personally, such as what is your favourite type of food, or favourite thing to do, or music they just do not or perhaps cannot respond? I would love to leave the session feeling satisfied & feeling that I have done my job well but most days I do not... Which is sad for all concerned. The residents all have varying stages of dementia/alzheimers as well as physical ailments. Can you offer any suggestions as to what I might try to break the ice & initiate some motivation??? Much appreciated.
Posted by: Solange | 8th April 2012 View profile
Hi Catherine, very clever of you to run short sessions. I agree with you, in my experience small groups (3 or 4 people) work much better. I also find that a variety of short sessions repeated throughout the day is often more successful than trying to have a long session. However sometimes it is impossible to do as you like. I work with a group of 10 people suffering from early and not so early stages of Alzheimer’s. My mission is to entertain them for 2 and half hours while their carers have a support group meeting. We sit around a large table from 10:30 am till 1:00 pm; getting up only to go to toilet. For this session I plan 8 to 10 different activities ranging from crayon coloring, puzzle solving (large wooden puzzles), a junior crossword on the white board, a couple of games of Hoy or table Quoits, a riddle or two, ‘Find 10 Differences’ game, a themed quiz, a game of balloon (all sitting and throwing the balloon to each other), ‘Word Search’ (horizontal and vertical only) and a little singing at the end of session. In between those activities I try to encourage them to talk about themselves or something that caught their attention on TV or newspaper. I find that unless I change activities often, they lose focus and tell me ‘they got go home”. I have mostly good sessions and the occasional chaotic session. Luckily I can call for help when I need it. I feel immense pleasure after a good session.
Posted by: Jan | 7th April 2012 View profile
@catherine.... I run pottery and card making classes each week but have found it is the same group of residents that take part.This week I tried taking activities around to smaller groups for half an hour at a time. Everyone this week took part in various things and said they prefered this way of doing it. What type of activities do you do with your dementia residents.... jan
Posted by: Catherine | 5th April 2012 View profile
I have a lot of trouble getting my dementia residents to participate as a group, so I do my activities in smaller groups of 3 or 4 for about 15mins each that way they do not lose interest or get bored. Those who do not wish to join in at all I spent time 1:1 with them.
Posted by: Margaret | 3rd April 2012 View profile
Try to find out WHY ur residents do not want to participate. That is your first challenge ... It maybe as simple as one resident doesnt want to sit next to another particular resident, maybe they cant hear/see whats being done. And find other things for them to do. They may not have been a very social person in the past.
Posted by: Margaret | 3rd April 2012 View profile
We have a group of kinder kids come and visit at our facility and they all LOVE to play bingo together.
Posted by: Solange | 3rd April 2012 View profile
Hi Tracy, Having children visitors is a great idea. Try singing nursery rhymes and playing balloons.
Posted by: Solange | 3rd April 2012 View profile
Participation is achieved with a lot of tender loving care. Here are a few tips: 1) Rule out pain/depression. 2) Find out what the resident enjoyed prior to coming to long term care 3) Invite resident to ‘watch’ activity or help someone to play activity.
Posted by: Tracy | 2nd April 2012 View profile
Hi We are Having the Local Preschool /Daycare Next door Visit our seniors Community day club .any ideas for activities that would be appropriate would be most gratefully received....
Posted by: Debra | 2nd April 2012 View profile
I usually never tell them what is on so they dont get the chance to say we dont want to come, so they come because they are curious. Have had a few that never come down so I have asked if the cleaners could clean their room. While they are waiting for the room or rooms to be cleaned they get brought into the lounge or where the activities may be. The first few times they watch then curiosity gets them and now they are atting slowly. Better than not at all. If you have time build a repore with them so they think that you have got time for them..Don't give up they will come around.
Posted by: Liza | 2nd April 2012 View profile
How would you encourage group participation?
Posted by: Solange | 29th March 2012 View profile
Hi Sue, you can find the word finder under the 'resources' heading in the right hand menu panel. Here is the direct link: http://www.goldencarers.com/word-finder.php#resources
Posted by: sue | 28th March 2012 View profile
i can no longer find the automated word finder i.e you put your own words in the word finder and it automatically 'hides' them for you. I would be grateful if someone could direct me to this please.
Posted by: Catherine | 19th March 2012 View profile
Hi Marina... I always like to play music that a resident has liked throughout their life in their rooms when they reach the end stage. It creates a peaceful atmosphere for them & for family. If they have expressed no interest in music something quiet & peaceful played is always lovely. If a resident is religious, by all means pray with them, even if they are not responsive I beleive they can hear you. Essential oils used in a diffuser are wonderful as well as gentle massage using oils, it makes the room smell fresher & is very relaxing. Read stories to them or even just talk to them, about the wonderful achievements of their life. These are all things I have done & documented. Hope this helps a little...
Posted by: Marina | 17th March 2012 View profile
Has anyone done a palliative careplan for diversional therapy. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Many thanks, Marina
Posted by: Catherine | 4th March 2012 View profile
Does anyone have any ideas for interesting words for use in Wordbuilding?
Posted by: Solange | 1st March 2012 View profile
For anyone who was experiencing trouble accessing activities yesterday there seems to have been a glitche with the new site in Internet Explorer which should now have been resolved.
Posted by: Anne | 29th February 2012 View profile
I am not able to access new activities, when I click on them they take me to the 'Recreatrion Therapy Resources' page (advert). Please help. Thank you. Anne.
Posted by: Kathy | 23rd February 2012 View profile
Hi, I am a carer and also activities co-ordinator at our Frail Aged Hostel, Does anyone please have any ideas for our 2 Vision Impaired residents, Our lady is quite mobile and our male resident uses a wheelchair or walks short distances with our aid and a walking stick, both are indigenous residents, The male enjoys playing his ceromonial boomerangs We have nine residents thanks Kathy
Posted by: Anne | 23rd February 2012 View profile
contact dementia Care Australia or wisdom activities
Posted by: Margaret | 20th February 2012 View profile
Hi all. Looking for a supplier in Vic to buy the large balloons that can be untied and blown back up again. Can anyone help please?
Posted by: Kerry Bickerton | 17th February 2012 View profile
Hi Julie We are fortunate to have a diverse cultural staff so I am calling on them to provide me with items for a cultural display. We will also have a special morning tea. Have you checked out the ideas section on the Harmony Day website? They have ideas and you can also receive Harmony packs free.
Posted by: Solange | 14th February 2012 View profile
There is a list of descriptive words in the website; look for Professional terms or click on this link: http://www.goldencarers.com/documentation/resources/professional-terms/
Posted by: Julie | 14th February 2012 View profile
Is anyone else planning a harmony day activity (21st March) we are doing a morning Tea orange and sport themed any ideas for a game would be welcome
Posted by: Julie | 13th February 2012 View profile
Would like to know if anyone has a list of words they use in documenting mine is getting a bit tired
Posted by: Debbie | 6th February 2012 View profile
Pass the parcel and you pass it around until it lands on the birthday person where they open it to find an extra little thing for the birthday person. I find that everybody gets excited to find out what extras could be hidden..Happyhou is always a good thing some times i even get an entertainer that can gives them extra attention. Or you could just take the birthday people out to lunch. Or take them to a vidio store so they can choose a vidio to take back to the home and share watching it while you serve small icecream cones.. Just a thought or two thats what I do depending on the birthday people celebrating
Posted by: Clarissa | 6th February 2012 View profile
Does anyone have any ideas for Birthday Morning tea???? I do it on the first Tuesday of the month, with all the people celebrating that month, I give them a coloured cupcake and a candle in there, we sing, hand out presents from our birthday box, and then I read their stars..... That is getting boring.... anyone have ideas??????????????????????
Posted by: Solange | 31st January 2012 View profile
The monthly calendar appears to be missing from the website currently. I will sort it out sort and let you know where to find it. Here is a link to the weekly calendar for Dementia specific. http://www.goldencarers.com/documentation/forms/dementia-program---weekly/
Posted by: Jill | 30th January 2012 View profile
Does anyone have a good template for an activities calendar?
Posted by: linda | 17th January 2012 View profile
Read to the residents the meaning and reason we celebrate Australia Day. Then ask the residents to draw items that are Australian and are showcased in the celelbrations held around the country. This could be anything from the Aust. flag, kangaroo, fireworks, sailing ships of the first fleet ect. Good luck with yoyr activity, this is great for cognitive exercises for residents. You could finsih off the day with cooking a damper and or a pavolova Linda
Posted by: Linda | 17th January 2012 View profile
Has anyone got any Australia Day craft activities ideas for Australia Day for high care dementia residents. Thanks Linda
Posted by: sandra | 13th January 2012 View profile
I was wondering if anyone had heard of a book called "View from the Verandah" if so could you let me know the author or where I could pick up a copy. Thanks Sandra
Posted by: Solange | 11th January 2012 View profile
Hi Donna, I am working on Group Games at the moment for the website but it is not quite ready yet. However I sent you a couple of suggestions. Good luck with the party!
Posted by: Donna | 11th January 2012 View profile
You are my lifesaver! I have found your actiity ideas very useful with my monthly planning and newlsetters. I am planning a birthday party for a 102 year old male resident. Can you please help with suitable group games to use at the party?
Posted by: leeanne | 10th January 2012 View profile
can you please suggest any good websites to help me with my cert iv in Leisure and Health studies?
Posted by: Susan | 4th January 2012 View profile
Iused to eblong to the WA Diversional Thrapy Ass, I did retire but have now gone back to work and work in a Dementia specific area of a Nursing home doing activities. I am looking for Australia Day activities as i have given all my referance books away. Are you Diversional Therapists Regards Susan
Posted by: Carol | 31st December 2011 View profile
Where I work we have an Annual Memorial Service where a Minister comes and has a short service. I do a Powerpoint Presentation of the residents that have passed away and show it on a large screen with music in the background. The families are invited of the residents that have passed away. It is a tribute to the wonderful times that we had together and good for the families. It is well represented by family members, residents and staff. It only goes for 30 mins .
Posted by: Solange | 12th December 2011 View profile
A Memorial service for residents who passed away in Nursing homes or Retirement Villages could be for instance, a small religious service performed by a minister of religion. It entails saying a group prayer, a resident or two reading a passage of the bible or remembering a friend with a few words or reading a poem of farewell. Residents and their families may light candles or place wreaths near the ‘altar’ in honour of their loved ones. Another alternative is to have a dignified non-religious ceremony which could go like this: Start with some appropriate background music, then a welcome and brief explanation of the ceremony by someone of your choice. Follow with poems or stories read from members of the bereaved families and/or staff. If you wish it, have a minute of group silence in honour of those departed. Offer refreshments at the ending of the ceremony. Regarding your mother, I can only tell you what I did. My mum passed away last year in Brazil; I wasn’t able to attend her funeral. I had a non-religious service at my house where I invited only relatives. We played the music she liked and had an album of photos of her three visits to Australia. After a long reminiscing session when we each spoke about her influence in our lives we planted a tree in her honour in the garden. This was followed by lunch.
Posted by: Lorraine | 11th December 2011 View profile
I would suggest you contact the local church or your regular church group who conducts the church groups. Bare in mind residents will get emotional. As for your own family maybe go to the church were the funeral was held and have a personal family service. I am sure the minister of the church will be of help. My sister and I will plan to visit the cemetry were our mum\'s ashes currently are on christmas morning or after lunch. She past away july 16th 2010. Good luck with your organisation.
Posted by: Rita | 30th November 2011 View profile
I am planning a Memorial Service for deceased Residents, throughout the year. I also want to have a small memorial service for my mother, while Family are here from overseas. Can you help me, please? Rita Osborn
Posted by: Chris | 24th November 2011 View profile
We are already planning for next year. Does anyone have extra ideas for fun activities and games to celebrate Australia Day? This year the thong-throwing competition was a hit, but we would love to hear of other creative ideas. Also, do you have a skit or short play we could perform (not necessarily for Australia Day)? Chris from Mackay.
Posted by: sandra | 19th November 2011 View profile
Hi Anne I have done the 12 days of Christmas with my residents the past 2 years, What I do is I pick out 12 residents, each one represents the day of christmas, I give them a printed piece of paper with just the day that that are on it and when we sing the song when we get to that particular day only that resident sings that line. We have so much fun with it as they usually forget who's turn it is and have to rely of me to point at them when its their turn. I hope this helps your activity I found that not everyone remembered what each day was so it works much better if they can read it to remind them. I thought this year I might try the Australian 12 days of Christmas!
Posted by: Anne | 19th November 2011 View profile
Hi! I work in a private hostel. I want to do a simple, very simple pageant of the 12 days of Christmas. Does anyone have any ideas? I thought I might print up some pictures , put them on a pole of some sort for residents to hold as the song is sung. Maybe have each resident hold some thing relevant to each day e.g. a drum ,pail,or a pipe. Does that sound ok or really lame?
Posted by: Fiona | 19th November 2011 View profile
Hi Golden Carer friends, I would really like to go to a diversional therapy conference in Adelaide & would like to know if anyone knows when the Adelaide dates are so I can put in for it asap. Thanks
Posted by: Lesley | 11th November 2011 View profile
Each year in December we hold a memorial service [we call it a Remembrance service] for families of the deceased residents .We send out invitations and the local Minister takes a short service, about 30 minutes. During the service we ask families to come up the front to light a candle for their loved one. We have one for each resident and if there is no family there, a staff member lights it. We finish off with a cup of tea so people can chat. Lesley
Posted by: Solange | 8th November 2011 View profile
Hi Mary, I would strongly recommend you spend some time developing a ‘Volunteer’s Program’. Volunteers’ help cannot be underestimated. With volunteers you may have 2 or 3 simultaneously activities. For instance you may have an outdoor activity (supervised by a volunteer); reading group, gardening, high tea. At the same time the residents could enjoy another activity indoors such as balloon playing, Snakes and ladders, sing-along, etc.
Posted by: Sue | 8th November 2011 View profile
Thanks, Solange for this great site. I've been reading the comments of those who have had some bad experiences and I'm one of those too. I moved from the city to be the new DT in a country area, with an acting facility manager in place. The existing lifestyle team resented me from the start, even though I went to great lengths to develop good relationships and a team environment. The nursing management team were bullies, and no one wanted change - except the residents. The new permanent facility manager abruptly terminated my contract 2 weeks before the end of my 6 months probation with no warning, citing a non-existent performance review and skewed facts. I too, wasn't allowed back. I did look at redress but then decided against it, as this is a small area. And I also didn't want the stress. It's interesting to note how many ads have been in the paper since then, for new staff of all persuasions in this facility. I have spoken to others in the street, and they all say the same thing - it's a very unhappy place. How can this be? And how can it be allowed to be??!! We look after people who are in their twilight years, and deserve the best. And this is what they are given!! I have since decided to quit DT as I am sick of the overwork, underpay and lack of support and respect for what we do. In the past, I was able to ignore all that and focus on the joy and satisfaction our residents gained from the activities and programmes we delivered, WITH JOY AND ENTHUSIASM!! I know I wasn't a perfect DT, but I did made the mistake of putting my residents first and the paperwork and pen pushing second. I know there are others out there who have had and are having good experiences in our chosen profession. It would be great to hear from them too. Cheers, Sue
Posted by: mary | 7th November 2011 View profile
from mary can any person suggest a timetable for a dt with 2 areas to give activities i work very hard sometimes dont get the breaks i need 1 work 9 to 5 one area is diementia the other is residential i love this site i dont have a pool of volunteers and find that care staff complain that they need more activities ispend a lot of my own time preparing for the day
Posted by: sandra | 4th November 2011 View profile
I Thought I would share an idea we came up with for our Melbourne cup Party with everyone. We had all residents sitting at tables, each table had to pick a name for their horse. On a table in the room where the residents could see we had a large sheet of paper drawn up with squares to represent the barriers and racetrack and we used upturned paper cups with cut out pictures of horses and their number attached. Each table had a turn at rolling a large dice, but before they could move they would have to answer a trivia question correctly. This was a lot of fun as the race was called with some very funny names. We thought this would be easier for the mobility impaired residents. It might be a useful idea for next year!
Posted by: clayton | 4th November 2011 View profile
you have had such a bad experience not all aged care homes are the same. I'd like you to consider giving me a call as I'm looking for someone who may be interested in bineg employed on a casual basis to cover my staff when they are on annual leave or on sick leave. I need a couyple of people actually who have had experiece as lifestyle workers. I can be contacted on 9895 5562. I'm the lifestyle manager at Inala Village in Blackburn Sth. and I have a great team of lifestyle Recreational Acitvity Officers working for me. Hope to hear from you Regards Clayton Saunders
Posted by: MARYANN | 4th November 2011 View profile
Jenny I totally understand the same thing happened to myself about 6 mths ago - though l was lucky enough to find this fantastic job - 1 off my formere co workers was forces out after l left. The residents were devisated and we were not allowed by Management to return for 3 months - we have since been back - they have little if any activities and are so happy to see us - go back see you FRIENDS they need you - visit them and support them we know it hurts but do it for them. Management have so soul sometimes - it's about people and how we can support THEM - all the best
Posted by: Lorraine | 4th November 2011 View profile
Jenny sorry to hear you have also been through a simualar position. I left my last job for pretty much the same reason. The managers had all three lifestyle staff in tears. which is not fare. We were always told that we are the worst lifestyle team ever at that place by the DON and when we put a suggestion in about out breaks as they didn't corrispond with residents program times we were also told they were sick of it then the management set times and we had no say in it. There budget is rubbish at $75 per month for 61 residents. The management also got one of my assistant in tears which normally she would stand up for her self well. The union were involved and always informed. WE had to keep our own diary. I am working at a new job now and its wonderful. Good luck hope you have a new job. BULLYING IS AN OFFENCE FROM EMPLOYERS and can be reported and if found guilty they can get up to ten years in prison. Union informed us on this. All the best.
Posted by: Jenny | 3rd November 2011 View profile
I have just left my position, or rather forced out due to bullying from management. Fifth staff member to leave in 12 months. It would appear that some managers and staff feel they have the right to treat the worker however they please. I am very sad to leave my position and my residents are devastated. Any one else been experiencing bullying and how did you deal with it
Posted by: pam | 2nd November 2011 View profile
hi julie, many thanks for your comments, and your support. i might take you up on that offer yet. i have appointment tomorrow for another work placement, fingers cross. age care has really open my eyes re the people that work in the area, dont really care for the residents, thank god all are not like that. i hads a good repore with a lot of the women and men in this home, i have already missed them. i had some concerns in home to what i witness, so i have reported on re the care. they say when one door opens, another door shuts, i know what to expect now. my rights. having done this course, has given me a lot of confidence, plus i came first in all my subjects, having never done this work every before. twenty one years in telecom nz, has given me excellent customer service skills. feeling a little bit sad today, 1500 a week here people are dianosed with dementia, and 1 in 5 people have a mental condition. they are slowly realizing that activities a given a reason to look forward, not many of the a seeing mental health professioinals. the bully told me early in the day that the residents, like me , and i was doing a good job, and i got on well with the staff. pam
Posted by: Julie | 1st November 2011 View profile
Hi Pam. I hope you didn't think i was giving you a hard time also that was not what i intended to do. I may be a nurse but i do appreciate all the assistance i get from students on voluntary placement. I don't think everyone understands the necessity of meaningful activities for the elderly. The nurse who bullied you clearly doesn't nor does he/she know the meaning of team work. I to get grief from other nurses and have gone home from work in tears but i know the residents i care for enjoy the activity programmes provided.I wish you all the best in your next placement not all places are like that one. If you ever come to Athlone Ireland you would be more than welcome to my place of employment. Take care and all the best.
Posted by: Linda | 31st October 2011 View profile
Reference: Author Pam I am also new to age care Pam from a background of Corp Management Customer Service. You are right people forget that age care is a service industry also, providing a service standard of excellence to the residents I wish you all the very best
Posted by: Helen | 31st October 2011 View profile
over three years ago I worked at a Regis and they spend very little money on residents. They wouldnt even buy a DVD player for them to watch movies.working for the Government is better pay I choose the hours I work to fit in with family and I really love the residents and the staff are extremely helpful with large events. Hope you are treated better at another facility.
Posted by: Catherine | 31st October 2011 View profile
Pam I am sorry when u are doing work placement the activity person should be explaining everything to u and not getting to do the same thing all the time. Also explaining paperwork \We are not all like that sorry for you, it should be a good experience not a bad one. Catherine
Posted by: Pauline | 31st October 2011 View profile
Solange, thankyou for creating the colouring in library it will help us find them easier and the categories are great could we please have some suitable templates for men as I have recently discovered they will not paint flowers or cartoons, I have been told they are for girls by a male resident who loves to paint. Pauline NSW
Posted by: pam | 31st October 2011 View profile
dear julie, after what happen at regis belmore on friday, the incident has left me upset i have advised the company where i did my cert 1v through, they will sort it out for me and i move on where i hopefully i be treated in a professional way i expect to be. i liked the patients, enjoyed talking to them and massage there hands. my background is customer service before doing this cert 1v, so i can see already there are problems at this home pam
Posted by: Julie | 30th October 2011 View profile
Hi Pam. I am an activity nurse facilitating activity programmes where i work. Throughout the year we would have students on work placements and i can honestly say that they are great at assisting me. I am disgusted at my nursing colleague's treatment to you. He/she seems to have forgotten about not only maintaining the dignity of residents but your dignity also. Any professional knows not to air grievences in front of residents. Don't let him/her upset you, you are doing a great job while on placement ensuring the quality of life of the residents is ehanced. Some professionals can feel put out if it isn't them not giving orders. Stand up for yourself but not in front of residents call the nurse aside and explain how you felt. No one should be reduced to tears when you know you are doing a good job.
Posted by: Lorraine | 29th October 2011 View profile
I would like to know how the budget for lifestyle monthly plan is worked out? I worked at one place which i have left now which has 61 residents high and low care and they ge a crapy $75 per month no more. Were i currently work it has 47 residents at present high care and we get $20 per person per month so nov we get $900. Fantastic. I am thinking of reporting the other place as I think it is totaly wrong to not provide afficient amount of budget for the lifestyle department. There for you CAN NOT provide adiquiet activities to suite residents needs and interests. I feel for the residents and i am glad i am out of there but feel sorry for the next coordinator who takes place.
Posted by: Lorraine | 29th October 2011 View profile
Hi Pam, You should not have to go through that at your placement. YOU are NOT a paid worker and the nursing staff/lifestyle staff should be helping you. The fact that you are going home nearly in tears is not on. They should not yell at you and especially in front of residents, other staff members and visitors. It's bullying otherwise. I would talk to your training teacher asap and see if you can be moved on or get them to speak with the lifestyle coordinator / staff and Director of Nursing.. You should be enjoying your placement time. It is very sad also that nursing staff in most aged care facilities expect lifestyle staff to be in the lounge all the time except when on breaks. We also get told if we are to make re arrangements because nursing staff use one of our rooms for there training that it is our problem you figure it out. Just on ending this we had a great meeting with head office and they are informing nursing staff of our position and that nursing staff need to support lifesytle more in assisting residents to activties and nursing need to help also.
Posted by: pam | 29th October 2011 View profile
i am doing work placement in a high care home in sydney. i done one activity about the queen, and the rest of the time massage the ladies hands. there is serve communcation problems at the home / re the role. we are not nurses not carers, not volunters, we are work placemnet roles in the activitys. i have to do 80 hours to pass my certicate 1v, and i am struggleing leaving in tears, after being told off in front the patients, for asking for a nurse to wheel one of the patients back to her room
Posted by: Judy | 29th October 2011 View profile
I've recently made a career change from the corporate field into management of a small frailcare facility; I love learning more about activities etc that can be implemented for the residents as there was very little done previously. This site is amazing and has proved to be very useful. Thank you.
Posted by: Alana | 24th October 2011 View profile
I have been in the industry for 19 year and manage 2 HACC Day Centres (dementia specific) This is a Web Site that has been needed for a very long time. I tell everyone i know about it.Well Done!
Posted by: pam | 14th October 2011 View profile
the queens activity went very well i sang songs looked up where she was born, time etc. her age , his age, how many children etc. i had the materials for them to feel, they just looked at it didnt touch the materials. i gave them all the ladies a massage with hand cream they liked that it was called lady carlyle rose, i brought from the chemist. pam
Posted by: Linda | 8th October 2011 View profile
Re Activities related to the Queens Visit Try a general knowledge group table trivia Q What bred of dogs does the queen have? Q Have does the queen acknowledge the people Q What is her husband\'s name Q How many children does she have Q What are thier names Q Where does she live, country, house name
Posted by: Marina | 30th September 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, Can you put your residents around a table and put objects on it for eg. Large dominoes, Large pack of cards, magazines, assorted toys (animals etc), wooden puzzles Anything of interest that is safe. When I do this curiosity gets them, and it often starts them talking or interacting with the other residents. They enjoy picking things up and examining them. Its worth a try. Marina Dementia Secure Unit
Posted by: pam | 30th September 2011 View profile
i have to do activitie re the queen visit any ideas for me high care demnetia unit
Posted by: Solange | 13th September 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, regarding ideas for a group of residents with severe cognitive deficit and visual impairment; one thing that have worked in our facility is to place a bunch of pieces of fabrics on top of the table and let them explore it. We find that most residents get interested in it, by looking and folding the fabric and those with visual problems will touch and feel the different textures (cotton, silk, wool, felt, lace, linen, etc). The pieces of fabric should be large enough so if they put it in their mouth they won\'t swallow it.
Posted by: Julie | 13th September 2011 View profile
Hi everyone. Just wondering if anyone would have any ideas for a group of residents with varing conditions from advanced dementia to communication difficulties and visual impairements that they could do on their own while i was facilitating other activities in the unit. I have put a rummage box in sitting room but not proving successful as only one resident so far has taken any interest in it. Other staff appear not to have the time or interest to supervise. Whilist i am not in this sitting room all residents have is the TV which is really not meaningful to them. The residents don't interact with each other due to their illness etc when i am not in the sitting room. Any advise would be grateful. Thank you.
Posted by: MARYANN | 10th September 2011 View profile
hi just on the cooking issue - l have developed a cook book for sessions Maryann
Posted by: Debbie | 8th September 2011 View profile
Hi Pam, I don't know what country you are from but I have found going to the country and visiting animals, touching of there coats and feeding horses etc. The smell of them brings back those sences that are sometimes lost. the other trips I do is taking them to the seaside and walking or just touching the sand. Walking in the water or just being near the sea watching the waves, birds etc. Going to a lake and having a picnic, Watching kids preform at a school as in nz we can take them to watch the choir, orchestra playing. Going to a museum with the arts as all these can bring back their inabitions of past experiences. If you like I can send you some things. Thanks Debbie
Posted by: pam | 8th September 2011 View profile
i am working high care dementia, what are the best trips to do, and what are the best activites
Posted by: kerry | 6th September 2011 View profile
Hi everyone I am in need of some VERY SIMPLE recipies to attempt with my residents (low Care). I ask for simple recipies because I am such a bad cook!Hope to see some post soon.
Posted by: Catherine | 5th September 2011 View profile
Jenny In reply to your question on hospital stay. At our Village a question asked in the Diversional Thearapy Personal Profile asks...... If you are in hospital would you like this published in the well wishes in the Resident Newsletter Yes NO This way as long as they said yes other residents know why they have not seen them as they are in hospital but of course no other informayion is given. Hoped that helped Catherine.
Posted by: Annie | 3rd September 2011 View profile
Jenny, this is a hard one. Professionally, residents have the right to privacy: to keep information about themselves from being disclosed: only they can decide who, when and where to share their health information with. Confidentiality is how health care staff treats private information once it has been disclosed to us or others. It is an ethical dilemma which puts the staff member in a tenuous position when a resident sincerely would like to know how their friend is. Unofficially of course, there is always non-verbal communication. Personally, I think all private health information is on a ‘need to know’ basis only: ask yourself if the resident really ‘wants’ to know; ‘needs’ to know or ‘has a right’ to know. It also depends on the length of stay in hospital as residents usually work things out themselves. There may be a legal informed consent form to allow the release of information to other parties, but I’m sure that’s for the benefit of third parties only involved in the health care of the resident. Any other comments?
Posted by: Jenny | 24th August 2011 View profile
What happens at other facilities when a resident goes to hospital? Have residents signed a form to give permission to tell other residents of their hospital stay, if so what was the wording on the form signed. It is a problem, as the residents say they are like family to each other, but then are not allowed to know if anyone is in hospital. They do not want to know personal details, just their well being? Any suggestions would be welcome.
Posted by: Julie | 11th August 2011 View profile
Hi Lisa. In regards to cutting residents nails where i work as an activity nurse i cut finger nails only but so do other nursing staff. Chiropodist cuts toenails. When i cut residents nails i also paint them( female residents) so we turn into a beauty session which they love. During these sessions residents open up and will talk about their lives. All females love to be pampered. Good luck in your new post.
Posted by: Marina | 11th August 2011 View profile
Hi Lisa, I work in a secure dementia wing and I do the residents nails as an activity. A lot of my clients have challenging behaviours and it is easier for me to do it, and I turn it into a pamper session, with a hand massage to finish. It is a good time for one on one time to chat with the residents. I am a registered D.T.
Posted by: sandra | 7th August 2011 View profile
Hi I have organised our show week with Activities which include a Bar B Q that will be a Country theme staff will be encouraged to wear jeans and chequered shirts on the day we will also have Strawberry Ice Cream Cones for dessert on the day. Activities I have organised is a large clown head with the mouth cut out so the residents can try and throw the ball through the clowns mouth, also I have painted used cans and plan to use them as knock em downs on the day. With prizes awarded ofcourse maybe some home made sample bags!
Posted by: Marina | 6th August 2011 View profile
Hi, has anyone any suggestions for activities for men with late stage dementia. Many thanks. Marina
Posted by: Lisa | 27th July 2011 View profile
I have only just started working as a Therapy Assistant, having studied for 6 months at TAFE, so very new to me. Loving it. I do have one question which I would love to get feedback on. Who's responsibility is it to cut residents nails? It seems to be a very grey area where I work - I understand that massage would be therapy but don't understand why it would be our job to cut nails and would love to know if this is standard in this industry.
Posted by: Gillian | 27th July 2011 View profile
Hello there Sandra... Our Diversional Therapist has organised for baby animals to visit our facility just a few days after the show here in Brisbane. I am trying to borrow a fairy floss machine and have already organised to make strawberry ice cream cones just like the ones at the Ekka, perhaps dogs on a stick ( permission pending..I have temperature stick firmly in hand:) I'm in the throws of thinking up games which would be similar to side show alley.... quoits, fishing for ducks etc. Hope this helps.....love to hear from other people with ideas. Cheers Gilly
Posted by: Julie | 25th July 2011 View profile
Hi Lesley what a brillant idea. I am going to speak to my Line Manager to see about adopting this idea. Hope you don't mind.
Posted by: Solange | 25th July 2011 View profile
Hi Fiona, yes, I had some very successful 'Country & Western' party. It will be on the website soon.
Posted by: Solange | 25th July 2011 View profile
Hi Lesley, what an unusual and fabulous idea! Thank you for sharing it with the community.
Posted by: Solange | 25th July 2011 View profile
Hi Jenny, this is sure a great way to celebrate the Show Day. Thanks for sharing it with our colleagues. I am also placing a few ideas on the site in the next few days.
Posted by: Lesley | 24th July 2011 View profile
Hi Solange, Enjoy your site,Thought I would let you know how we choose activities each month.I work in a long stay hospital,residents aging from 40 to 95 years.I work with another DT and each month we randomly choose a letter of the alphabet [usually 4months in advance for organising]and plan activities beginning with that letter. This month is B so are doing the following----button collage,threading beads, beauty therapy,ballon volleyball, bowls,bible stories,volunteer talking about growing up in Belguim,blowing bubbles,game of beetles,baking bread ,bead, bow and bangle day,making bird pudding [bird food for outside] Next month is letter K---we have organised someone to bring kittens for a visit,knitting group, karate demo,kite making,kitchen reminescence,playing the keyboard,Kiwiana,words ending in K,display of kilts,knocking on residents doors[reminder to staff]. I have been doing activities for 20 years now and this gives me a new interest and challenge to think of somethingdifferent. We still do the popular activities such as housie,van outings etc.We have 3 units,dementia, frail elderly and young people with disabilities. Lesley Cuthbertson
Posted by: Fiona | 22nd July 2011 View profile
Hi There, Has anyone had a Country & Western theme day? I would love some ideas for games from anyone who has held such a day. Thanks for the great support.
Posted by: sandra | 21st July 2011 View profile
Hi there I Was wondering if anyone had any ideas for activities I could run in conjunction with the Brisbane show which is on in August
Posted by: carol | 15th July 2011 View profile
Thankyou for the information Solange it was very helpful
Posted by: Solange | 14th July 2011 View profile
Hi Carol, One way to do it is by buying a calendar and marking the most popular dates such as Mother’s, Father’s day, Valentine and St Patrick’s days and so on. Then, decide what should be done as the highlights for the year ahead such as: Theme parties, High Teas, cultural celebrations and any other commemoration you plan to do. I also try to have all dates for concerts booked for the whole year if possible. Another thing that should have marked dates is the picnics, bus trips and community outings. It is also important to have dates for skits or pantomimes you intend to do including the dates for rehearsals to start. Make sure you place reminders a week or two before the events so you can plan the action on a monthly basis. See monthly calendar in the website.
Posted by: Solange | 4th July 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, it is really bizarre that your work is not recognized in Ireland. In Australia we tolerated negative comments for years but in my experience it is now much better. Nurses, management and RNs have some degree of respect for what we do and sometimes even assist us with activities by participating (pantomimes, games. skits, karaoke).
Posted by: Solange | 4th July 2011 View profile
Hi Rosanne, I am glad it worked for you. I tried to have Laughing Yoga in a high care facility once and it was a dismal failure.The idea is worthwhile and can bring a lot of fun to participants.
Posted by: Solange | 4th July 2011 View profile
Hi Heather, yes I believe you.The Chicken Pen Care Plan must stipulate who buys the food, who feeds the chickens, who places clean fresh water every day in the pen, who would be in charge to take them to the veterinary when needed, who would be in charge to chase them if it scapes, who administer medication when needed. The good thing is, once the Care Plan is ready and you give each person a copy, there is no ‘pass the bucket’, or ‘not me’ or ‘I forgot’. Remember, to ‘harvest’ the eggs it should be always the residents (accompanied by staff).
Posted by: Solange | 4th July 2011 View profile
Hi Fiona, I am also very interested in the Eden Philosophy Therapy. It is a philosophy that acknowledges that long term care organizations can and should be transformed into true ‘human habitats’; places where our elders would spend their days ‘living’ instead of waiting to die. I am glad to say that in the place I work for we are all well entrenched in this concept. Our residents can choose the time to bathe and the time to dine among other things which differ from the programmatic approach used in many organizations. We also have a wonderful, friendly garden with wide cement paths for wheelchairs, a gazebo with tables and chairs, a large table for craft, a BBQ, elevated herb and vegetable patches, chicken pen and fruit trees.
Posted by: Julie | 4th July 2011 View profile
I would just like to complement all activity personnel and therapists in both Australia and New Zealand. Here in Ireland based on my experience the post is not recognized as a valid one. All activity nurses and carers that i know have to face negative comments on a daily basis.Its very hard to keep motivated for your residents when some staff just don't see the necessity of providing meaningful stimulation for the elderly. Not all units are the same but we still have a long way to go. On the plus side the residents i care for enjoy the activity programme and at the end of the day thats all that matters.
Posted by: Lorraine | 3rd July 2011 View profile
I have been a lifestyle coordinator for 4 1/2 years with a certificate IV and only get paid $19.36 an hour. As we all agree the aged care industry in a low paid industry concidering we all are there to help out elderly and sick residents. All our governments need to look into what we do and how hard it is. We don't get very good monthly budgets either for the residents programs. I work for a 61 high and low care facility and only get $75 monthly budget. We have to raise funds for everything else which I think is unfare.
Posted by: anna | 3rd July 2011 View profile
Hi Annie, I've been told the award if you have at least cert iv is $23.50. Some facilities do pay the correct award and its worth working for those that do pay correctly. I have worked in a few facilities and each time I greatly miss my previous residents and grow to "love" my new ones. I wouldn't work for less than the award as we already work hard enough and put in so many more hours which we don't get paid for and its because we do love what we do = Commitment.
Posted by: Helen | 3rd July 2011 View profile
Hi Annie I work in high care unit for 40 residents and have cert iv and diploma get paid $26 an hour and work 27 hours a week.I job share. rates vary between public and private facilities.
Posted by: Marina | 3rd July 2011 View profile
Hi Debbie, I am a registered Diversional Therapist, I also have the Certificate for the Older Person (I was also a caregiver), when I was an activities assistant my wages went up to $15.30 when I passed the Cert, Older Person, and then when I became a qualified registered D.T. I get $18.00 an hour. Where I work if you havent passed any papers you get minimum wage. If you are thinking of qualifying, I think it is really worth it.
Posted by: Solange | 3rd July 2011 View profile
I am afraid we are all very poorly paid. I believe that in the United States and New Zealand it is the same. In Australia we have an award system that indicates how much we earn.However private organizations use their discretion; sometimes paying well and sometimes paying poorly.
Posted by: Debbie | 2nd July 2011 View profile
Hi Annie, You are so lucky I work in a facility for 43 residence and get paid 14.50 nz but i don,t have a certificate I have been a DT for 11 years and have got caregiving experience behind me. On tthe down side we are under paid and over worked. Wouldn't be in this job except I just love the residence. They have become like family. Have heard that some in this country are on about 16 dollars per hr...Very interested in everybodys response... Thanks Debbie
Posted by: Annie | 1st July 2011 View profile
Hi everyone. For those of you who don't mind, I was wondering what pay rates other Diversional Therapists have & whether they increase with experience. Myself: nearly 3 years experience; Diploma qualified as DT; work for a 'for profit' organisation in residential aged care facility; have full DT responsibility for 42 bed facility and earn $19.02/hr. No pay rise in past or for the future. NB: this is NOT a criticism/complaint - just curiosity! I would appreciate your reply. Thank you everyone.
Posted by: Heather | 27th June 2011 View profile
Hi I am trying to set up a chook pen at the centre where I work. One of the prerequisites is a care plan for each chook. (not joking). Can anyone help with what I have to do and I would love to hear from other dts who have done the same thing. Thanks
Posted by: Fiona | 27th June 2011 View profile
Hi There, I just wondered if anyone one is following The Eden Philosophy. I have just finished my training & I feel very inspired. I would love to hear from anyone using this in their facility. Regards Fiona
Posted by: Carol | 25th June 2011 View profile
Hi Everyone,just joined up I am always looking for new activities for residents keep me informed with any new ideas
Posted by: Anne | 22nd June 2011 View profile
This is for Helen , who was looking for cheap entertainers in Brisbane.I have a limit of $60 dollars for a concert and i have a few
Posted by: Marina | 21st June 2011 View profile
Hi Pauline, I do an activity for the sense of smell. I use small gauze jewellry bags and fill them with different herbs and spices, and we guess what each ingredient is. I just wash out bags and change the ingredients for another time, my residents enjoy this one. Marina
Posted by: Debi | 18th May 2011 View profile
Hi Everyone,Just wanted to pass on some fund raising idea's that is raising money for our resi's. We do the chocolates, & have just started selling cans of drinks for $1.00 and a weekly meat& vegi raffle. Its working out great for us. Good Luck :)
Posted by: Catherine | 16th May 2011 View profile
To all Just read what I posted meant: that do all your work at work. I know at times we all do work at home but if we do this we are telling the bosses we can do all the work needed in the time given when we can't. I lot of us are not full time and have less hours to get things done keep a dairy of what you are doing at work so if the boss turns around and says why did you not get this done you can tell them exactly what you were able to do in the hours you are allocated. If you do want more hours but are doing the work at home (getting it done)the boss won't see the need. Catherine D/T
Posted by: Catherine | 16th May 2011 View profile
To all Wow I have never came in to work and had so many comments from this forum in one morning. Yes Yes Yes are job is very hard and truly we are the only ones who know this. When i am on holidays someone might fillin for some activities as there is always an excuse staff sick so there was no one but when they do it is only for the activity and they write down the names of those who have attended. So they do think the job is as easy as anything. Only we know how much work is done behind the scenes. If you belong to a larger company with other Villages meet with them. I organise for the RAO's and D/Ts at my company to get together once every second month it is fantastic the ideas we share are great! Also look for the D/T Australia Assoc local meetings for your area, this is a way to talk to others not related to your company but area. I chair the local group in my area and its great we have an educational every month and talking to others always helps. If some of you are having great trouble with no office or computer try to get yourself a laptop use this at work but placing the forms you use on it and try try try to organise the activities for time that you can do the work needed at home. Write a letter to the chairman of the company and ask for a computer with internet access ( I did and i did not believe it but got it) I was lucky. The main thing is for us all to talk to others and share so we do not think where alone and knock the socks of the accreditors each time they come so WE STAND OUT! Catherine D/T
Posted by: Debbie | 15th May 2011 View profile
dear robyn I will take this comment on board as it is like that you always think you could have done a little bit more.I suppose I am hard on myself just want the residents to have fun through there transition of getting older and coping away from home....And try to make it as homely as possible. They are my life I carnt even turn off when at home and when I shop I am always looking for things for them eg presents crafts and different places to visit..Thanks again for the comments..NZ get only half of what the dts get in Australia. But I work for the resis.....It would be nice for a pay rise. ahe....
Posted by: Robyn | 15th May 2011 View profile
I am very lucky where I work, except never having enough time to do all things properly. But another Lifestyle Manager gave me this advice, to do the best you can at the time and don't be hard on yourself. I love working in aged care, previous job was in a bank and now consider myself very lucky to have the job I have. So I try to stay positive and I have worked as a carer in disability so understand a bit about the care side, so try to help out when I can. I always say we don't get paid much so lets have a pleasant working environment, be nice to and support each other.
Posted by: mary | 15th May 2011 View profile
i too have the same problem i have a lot of work that i have to use my computer at home.i am almost complete with DT training i too struggle to be heard
Posted by: Helen | 14th May 2011 View profile
To Debbie. I have to share the computer with our office lady and it is very difficult at times to get time on the computer. I dont have a desk or office. I do my paperwork at the one the tables in our dining room. I do look up ideas on the internet at home and work on my monthly calendar. I enjoy reading the comments on this site.
Posted by: Jenny | 14th May 2011 View profile
Why does everyone think our job is a walk in the park. I am sure that you are all like me, thinking about the job 24/7. I have no where to hang my hat, and like anyone who does our job, I totally love it,the residents are like family to me.
Posted by: Marina | 14th May 2011 View profile
Annie, I totally agree with you. Very well written. When you do work as a team it feels great, and the work load is not so hard. Marina D.T.
Posted by: Debbie | 14th May 2011 View profile
I agree with all the comments below NO 1 Our police is 5 to one ratio in the van and outings in the community. Need a volunteer for any wheelchairs and walkers as while your attending them your helper, volunteer etc can be looking after the other resis incase of wondering etc....It is just a shame in our facility I don't get any help and everything is done with the resis..morning tea and lunches etc are all on my own as for the caregivers helping with the resis to get to outings I have asked those that have been dressed and showered etc to then bring them down to activities..When they have finished morning tea or lunch bring them to where I am going to be whether it is for a trip lounge sunroom etc... I can tell you this but it is an on going battle there excuse is they have there own work to do.....and so on...I do morning teas for them from the resis and I do fundraising so they can have a really fun night out even to the extent of decorating tables with thankyou notes etc. Boss just makes the remark that your only there babysitter...I get quite offended by this as the care and resposibilty we have is so much more greater..For example RN has to ask me what is what with there health there dislikes what can they do etc...We have so much paper work that repeats itself and your forms are very simular to ours but our facility is double..I think the only people that understand what is going on in a dts life from day to day is all of us...I say I love my job but this sight has helped me with support and you don.t feel as if your working all on your on....Ps sorry for the gripe but I don't even have a place of my own to do my work...Question do others have a office or commputer or anything I have to do all my stuff like this at night.
Posted by: Linda | 14th May 2011 View profile
I have recently started my certificate iv in health and leisure and I am finding some of the case studies on values/conflict/ ethical behaviour a challenge has anyone got any advice. Thanks Linda
Posted by: Annie | 14th May 2011 View profile
Teamwork seems to be a common problem at a lot of facilities. My suggestion is to befriend the staff (AINs, Kitchen, Cleaners etc), spend time with them and listen to their advice/suggestions. People are loyal to people, not companies or departments. Always ensure you thank staff for helping out when they can: I sing their praises over the pager and at every resident meeting. Any leftover or extra ‘treats’ (sweets, nice coffee, chocolates etc) I leave in the staff room for them to enjoy and let them know it’s from the DT department. Help out the AINs when you can eg mealtimes or supplements. Get the residents to make special ‘staff appreciation’ cards or do a small poster with top 10 reasons we love our AINs. Nurse’s Day has just been and gone – an ideal opportunity to show some appreciation for nursing staff. I have found nursing staff have far more consistent, long-standing and personal, therapeutic relationships with residents than I could ever find time to have with each & every one. Supporting nurses in turn supports that relationship and residents are enriched. 'It takes a village to raise a child' etc. I find that building and maintaining supportive relationships with other staff members brings far more reward, co-operation and understanding than new policies, in-services or orders from management. Good luck!
Posted by: Marina | 14th May 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, That used to happen where I work until several care staff did my job when I was away, and their tune changed. Marina - Secure Demential Unit.
Posted by: Lorraine | 14th May 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, I agree with you about your comment 100%. Staff always think all we do is play games. As soon as they are offered to help or offered a position in this area they always seem to decline. They don't realise the amount of preparing and energy that goes into it. I would suggest when new staff come on board to give them an orientation day into lifestyle also. This will give them the opportunity to see the inside of our work. They may see differently and help us more. I do find we get limited help also to bring residents down to programs. There has to be a way we can get other staff to support us D/T staff better.
Posted by: | 14th May 2011 View profile
Hi Julie, It is really sad that there are still people with this sort of attitude. We are a vital part of the various disciplines required to deliver optimal health care in hostels and nursing homes. People often forget that our elders are going through major changes in their lives where confidence and stamina are often low. Can you imagine if the spiritual, emotional and recreation assistance we provide would be taken away? The results could well be further social isolation, depression and other ills. I am glad to hear management is supportive. Perhaps if you could involve the staff in some activities so they would realise it is not as easy as they think. I often invite staff to participate in all theme parties, festivals, karaoke, singing duos on Valentines, Christmas carols, horse race and hat parade on Melbourne cup, limbo rock on Hawaiian Luau, etc. Good luck!
Posted by: Sue | 12th May 2011 View profile
Hi there I work in a high care facility with a special needs unit (SNU)attached. When we take SNU residents out on the bus (they don't get off)ratio is two staff plus excellent helpful driver, to 17 residents. When we take nursing home residents out, depending on where we are going and how many wheelchairs, we take three staff plus driver and as many volunteers as we can get (usually one or two). Thanks for a great site. Is there a possibility of adding a Forum to this site, as there appears to be many people (like me) who work pretty much alone. It's good to have other DT's/Lifetylers to bounce ideas and questions off. Thanks Solange
Posted by: Julie | 11th May 2011 View profile
Hi there. I work as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Diversional&Recreational Activities for the elderly. I work in a 43 bedded long stay unit. While i know the residents enjoy the activities programme available my biggest problem is other staff. They view my job as a "cushy" one and their comments are very often demeaning. Does anyone have any suggestions to motivate other staff to get involved and see the job as a vital and necessary one. Management are very supportive.
Posted by: Jasmine | 11th May 2011 View profile
Hi, I don't even remember I got here but I am glad I did! I'm just starting out working with Age Care as a Diversional Therapy Assistant in a whole new different cultural setting and had been searching for a site such as yours. What a blessing! Awesome site and keep up the good work! Cheers! Jasmine
Posted by: Catherine | 10th May 2011 View profile
To Jenny I work for a low care facility bus holds 17. Driver and me, but if it is an activity which I beleive will be difficult I will have less residents attend. Stil driver and me. Hope thats a help Catherine D/T.
Posted by: Solange | 9th May 2011 View profile
Hi Jenny, I worked in an RSL Hostel which was considered 'low care' at the time. All residents could move without aids and most had good cognition. We took them on community trip twice a month. The bus fitted sixteen people so we had 14 residents and two staff members. We also had a wonderful driver who gave us a hand whenever needed. These days I work in a high care facility and our bus takes twelve people and 4 wheelchairs. However we only take 5 or 6 residents and only two wheelchairs. The ratio is two staff members but we always try to involve some of the residents relatives to accompany us. This makes a big difference because they can look after their loved ones and also give us a hand if necessary. Again, we have a wonderful bus driver who helps a lot; which makes three (four, if we can persuade a relative to go) of us to look after 7 or 8 residents. It is not easy, I know. I often have a headache from stress when I go on community buses. The responsibility is enormous. Every facility has their own policies, this is an example only from places I worked before. I hope this can help you. Cheers, Solange
Posted by: Jenny | 9th May 2011 View profile
Hi I was wondering what is the staff /resident ratio at other facilities in a low care nursing home on outings? Thanks Cheers Love the site.
Posted by: Solange | 4th May 2011 View profile
Here is the link to the group membership form: http://www.goldencarers.com/group-membership.pdf
Posted by: Sue | 30th April 2011 View profile
Hi Solange Thank you for a great site! On March 17 you replied to Scott re a group membership option. I am a member of Golden Carers myself and my boss has offered to pay for my membership when it comes due and asked if there was an option for a group membership so that the other Lifestyle staff could benfit from your wonderful site too. Could you please forward the information? Thanks, Sue
Posted by: Solange | 25th April 2011 View profile
Hi, Julie, congratulations on your promotion to Life Style Coordinator.Good luck!
Posted by: Solange | 8th April 2011 View profile
Thanks for the wonderful photos Suzette!
Posted by: Suzette | 5th April 2011 View profile
I have enclosed some photos from our australia day BBQ.....these were taken at Blue Care Toowoomba. We have 4 Diversional therapist working in this facility and we all love Golden Carers. Thank you, Suzie Ross
Posted by: Solange | 25th March 2011 View profile
Hi, there are conferences going in Brisbane and Melbourne in the coming weeks ahead. For the Brisbane Conference ring Alzheimer's Australia and for Melbourne ring Diversional Therapy Australia. In Adelaide there will be a Workshop in April. Ring DT Australia.
Posted by: Fiona | 22nd March 2011 View profile
Does anyone know of a Diversional therapist conference in Adelaide & if so could you please post the details or a contact name. Thanks
Posted by: Lorraine | 19th March 2011 View profile
Hi Solange, My name is Lorraine. I work in a very small aged care facility. We have 14 very high care residents which over half are bed ridden. Is there any suggestion for a program that I could conduct or these residents with special high care needs. Some are in a princess chair. Alot can not move and don't really talk. I would love to hear any suggestions from you and any one else. Thank you for your time. This site is fantastic.
Posted by: katrina | 19th March 2011 View profile
Hi do you have a site to get calendar templates from to do the monthly activity programs on, great site thanks katrina
Posted by: Robyn | 19th March 2011 View profile
If you run a AFL football tipping competition with your residents. The season start next Thursday 24th March 2011. I charge $5 for the season though you can run a free one. I hand out a weekly tipping sheet with last week's results and the ladder on the back. A resident is helping to check the results. It is a lot of fun.
Posted by: Solange | 17th March 2011 View profile
Hi Scott, we do offer discounts for group memberships - I have sent a group membership form to your email address.
Posted by: Scott McLaren | 17th March 2011 View profile
Just a query, i was wondering if you have the capacity to set up a group membership with multiple sign ins. St Laurenve have a number of lifestyle/recreation departments whose staff would benenfit from having accsess to your site? Thank you for your time.
Posted by: Gail | 13th March 2011 View profile
Hi Debi, we had an Ekka day last year. We had some residents decorate and fill small bags with goodies eg: small chocs, chips, as sample bags, also played games such as knock em downs also had a art and craft exhibition with residents displaying their craft and had other residents and staff judge the 1st , 2nd ,3rd and gave winners a certificate and scratchies/choc. the residents loved the fairy floss , you may be able to find someone who has a small fairy floss machine and make your own a lot cheaper i\'m sure. how about having small animal nursery visit . good luck gail
Posted by: Helen | 12th March 2011 View profile
Debi we have a Ekka show day in August and have farm animals for 2 hours, a sausage sizzle, strawberries and icecream and an entertainer.
Posted by: Debi | 11th March 2011 View profile
hi has anyone had a show day and if so what did it involve as we are having one in september and i would love some ideas thankyou debi
Posted by: Robyn | 28th February 2011 View profile
Hi, Just wondering if you have any information on what to put in a Snolzen room. Thanks Robyn
Posted by: Debbie | 26th February 2011 View profile
Hi my name is Debbie and I have lots of ideas for crafts..We are doing lots of fundraising to help on our big trips which consistes of hiring a mobilty bus.. on top of our budgit we always need to do extra to help with entertainment etc..This is a note to Zsuzsanna We would be interested in a penpal exchange as we live in New Zealand we would love to share...have lots of ideas hope I can help
Posted by: Zsuzsanna | 14th January 2011 View profile
Hi, my name is Zsuzsanna, and if anyone has any idea how I can join a penpal program for nursing home residents, would they please let me know? I have found one program in the States but was hoping for something in Australia.
Posted by: Pauline | 12th January 2011 View profile
Hi solange The other markets to go to for games and puzzels are carrara markets on the gold coast and I use baby wipes to clean my wooden puzzles and make sure the residents that use them have nothing contagious that they can pass on.
Posted by: clayton | 12th January 2011 View profile
Thanks for the advice on the jigsaws, i'm sure i will find it valuable when i get time to use it, i'll let you know how i go, Thanks again Kelly
Posted by: Pauline | 11th January 2011 View profile
Hi everyone, recently I got two very good puzzles from Aldi for $10.00 each and my residents love them as they go across two tables and they are large enough to see and handle with poor vision and arthritic hands. I also got from the local markets near my home town some raised puzzles with pegs in them that fit into shapes on puzzle boards for high care residents to feel and see where they go. They did not cost much. May I suggest that you visit the nerang markets on your way to pacific fair one weekend as I know thay have great education and children' toy booths with what you may be looking for at decent prices.
Posted by: Christine | 11th January 2011 View profile
We arent able to have wooden puzzles at our facility due to infectious diseases control. Wooden puzzles sometimes cannot be cleaned without damaging the picture. Does anyone else have the same measures in place for resources?
Posted by: Annie | 10th January 2011 View profile
Hi Kelly - I shop on E-Bay a lot for work resources; just search for "wooden jigsaw puzzles" and see what's on offer. There are nice wooden puzzles at shops called "Riverview Gifts Galore" and "Active Brains Busy Hands" which would be suitable for adults with dementia. Good luck. Annie
Posted by: Christine | 10th January 2011 View profile
Hi Ive purchased 2 great ones from http://www.boxndice.com.au/ they are made from recycled tyres and plastic bottles can be wiped for infection control. Hope that hepas
Posted by: clayton | 10th January 2011 View profile
Hi everyone my name is Kelly from Blackburn, Melbourne. im in need of jigsaw puzzles for Dementia residents, i've found a couple in certain web sites but they retail at about $100.00 + i am after something abit cheaper, they need to be suitable for 2nd stage dememtia residents. Any help with this would be greatfully appreciated. Thanks Kelly DT.
Posted by: Helen | 31st December 2010 View profile
Can anyone recommend some entertainers in the Brisbane area for small group entertainment in our lounge or groups to perform in our hall for under $100? We have a 1:1 monthly flute therapy which everyone enjoys! thanks Helen
Posted by: Karen | 31st December 2010 View profile
I am part of a Dementia project that we are about to commence in the local community. This is a 'Memory Lane Cafe' type project where people (approx 65yo+) with memory loss and their family, carers or friends gather on a monthly basis for afternoon tea, allied health info and entertainment. We are looking for some new entertainers to use, anyone have ideas? Our project is based in the Melbourne West Metro area. Thanks
Posted by: anna | 30th December 2010 View profile
Hi my name is Anna.I've set up a trolley with nick nacks which i take around the facility 2-3 times a week for residents to purchase goodies.I have also made available cans of coke etc which i keep in my fridge for staff to purchase for $2 a can.The money raised from these two activities is separate from my monthly budget.I need to record this activity either on Excell or Ledger but am not quite sure how to record all this as well as fun raisers.The solution is probable staring me in the face,but i just feel i need YOUR input on how best to record these moneis....by the way...i hate dealing with money...
Posted by: Lorraine | 27th December 2010 View profile
Hi, My name is Lorraine. I will be doing shifts as a lifestyle coordinator from the hours of 11am to 5:30pm monday to friday. There are already programs in place but I may need to change some. Wednesday 30th December is my first day and we have accreditation visit also. I am looking into changing there attendance records to tick format not written format in which they currently have. This will save time also.
Posted by: Nadia | 15th December 2010 View profile
Hi every one... my name is Nadia and I have been using this website for a number of month. I live in Canada and working in Adult Day Program. Do you have any ideas for man programs? We cannot do much outside because we have a lot of snow and all our acti8vities should be indoor. Any idea?
Posted by: christine | 29th November 2010 View profile
Hi Love your site. Can you do a list of companies that offer for free or little charge services eg bus trips for the nursing homes that have little money . As the staff are continually running raffles or digging into thier own pockets for the residents that they care for. Thanks Chris
Posted by: Susan | 12th November 2010 View profile
Dear Annie, I have just read your blog, yes it is very hard to find time to do everything. I don't do any nursing duties unless on outings. I love digging around the Golden Carers site as it is very helpful to get idears. Alzeimers Australia has a great website to look at as they have some good ideas as well. Sue
Posted by: Heather | 11th November 2010 View profile
Hi Maryann, Im a recreational activities officer 40 high care residents. I work 7hrs per day mon-fri and although never enough time in the day my schedule goes a little like this. activities: 8.30 -9.15 Room visits, 9.30 -10.00 exercises, 10.00-10.20 m/tea residents and myself, 10.30 -11.30 activities, residents have lunch, I assist nursing staff with feeds, 12.30-1pm my lunch break,1-2pm admin, 2.00-3.00pm activities either group or one on one for bedfast residents. 3.00- 4.00pm admin... hometime. hope this helps u.. regards Heather
Posted by: MARYANN | 11th November 2010 View profile
thanx all for the feedback on days/hrs - very varied/interesting thanx again keep it coming maryann ellis
Posted by: Patricia | 11th November 2010 View profile
Hi i work as an activities co-ordinater and my hours of work are 0800 to 1600
Posted by: Christine | 11th November 2010 View profile
To Maryann I work as an Activities Officer in a 9 bed residential high care MPS (multi purpose service) I have 20 hours which is group activities,one on one, admin and also some community contact.I work 4 days x 5 hours.
Posted by: Annie | 10th November 2010 View profile
To Maryann - I work as DT in a 42 bed mixed needs residential facility and have 31 hours allocated Monday to Friday for DT duties + admin duties + shopping etc - it\'s very hard. No weekend work allowed by management (no time left over anyway!). As far as I know, DTs do not attend to ADL duties unless you are rostered on duty as an AIN and have Cert. III Aged Care. It\'s ok to help out occasionally when needed but not as a rule as it takes away from DT time. Solange would be great to have section for DTs to upload their calendars or any paperwork so we get an idea of what is offered and how. I read of so many wonderful ideas but have no practical time to implement much unless I do more work from home so just keep to the bare minimum. Nice to read everyone\'s comments and feel part of a DT community. Annie
Posted by: Helen | 10th November 2010 View profile
Hi the qld course is now called a certificate IV in Leisure and Health it used to be called a cert IV in Community services ( Lifestyle and Leisure). I work as a Diversional therapist 27 hours per week. I have MOndays off as I have a volunteer who comes in and we have weekly entertainment. Tue/wed/thurs I work 9-4.30 and Fridays I finish a little earlier. I have a recreation officer who does 4 hours on a saturday. My unit has 40 residents. We do group activities in the mornings and 1.1 individual therapy and paperwork in the afternoons. Hope this helps you Helen.
Posted by: MARYANN | 9th November 2010 View profile
hi l still need feedback on hours off work for D.T.s can a few people please tell me their work hours program hrs etc this includes activity co ordinators too thanx MARYANN ELLIS
Posted by: Gail | 7th November 2010 View profile
Hi Jessica, doing my Certificate IV in community services(lifestyle and leisure) through Bremer TAFE,located in ipswich Qld. Doing this via correspondence, is great as I work fulltime and can do this in my spare time.I volunteer at an aged care facility as hours are required to be completed in a facility as a part of the course. Good Luck. Hope you find a course to suit you. Regards Gail
Posted by: MARYANN | 7th November 2010 View profile
hi yeh jess contact Diversional Therapy Australia located in Sydney also login to REDLEAF EDUCATION they have distace ed which may be what u are lookingg for Maryann Horsham VICTORIA
Posted by: Solange | 7th November 2010 View profile
Hi Jessica, most TAFE colleges have DT courses in Queensland. Ring one of them and ask them to send you the information booklet. You can choose to do the Certificate IV or the Diploma.
Posted by: jessica | 7th November 2010 View profile
Hi, I am actually a speech pathology student (previously an AIN in residential aged care) and I am trying to find out about the study requirements to be a diversional therapist. I cannot seem to find any relevent courses in Queensland. Any pointers? Jessica
Posted by: Gail | 5th November 2010 View profile
Hi, Just thought others would like to know that the queensland government have made the 7th of November "grandparents Day". Recognising grandparents in our community. 2010 is the first year. Realise it is a bit late to tell you but you now know for next year. I volunteer at an aged care facility and we have printed certificates to give to the residents. Go to qld govt"grandparents day" site and you will find posters ,certificates that can be downloaded .
Posted by: Heather | 2nd November 2010 View profile
Hi Solange,I am an activities officer for 40 High Care residents in a nursing faciltiy and have enjoyed your site and used many ideas which have seen more smiles on my residents faces which makes my job so worthwhile and satisfying. I was wondering if you had any ideas on fun ways to run an exercise class to help with mobility and movement. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks Heather
Posted by: Lynne | 26th October 2010 View profile
I have just subscribed to the website...I can see it is going to be very helpful. Could anyone help me with a calendar(monthly/weekly/fortnightly)different to the norm....help...please
Posted by: Solange | 1st October 2010 View profile
Hi Wendy - Men’s activities that work for me are: dominos, gardening, conversation (Men’s Club), any game that uses a dice, sanding and painting old furniture, carpet bowls, bowling, Hoy, and lately Wii game consoles.
Posted by: Solange | 30th September 2010 View profile
Hi, regarding affordable presents for volunteers. You could assist residents to make book-marks as instructed in the website, but do it in scraps of colourful leather. I was given one in yellow leather with a giraffe's head at the top. I love it! You could also assist them to make small containers from clay and then decorate them. Working with clay provides a wide range of experiences - creative, tactile, and pleasurable.The firing can be done with or without a kiln. Fifteen years ago when I was working for the RSL in Pinjara Hills, a sight deficient gentleman made me a small container. It is one of my prized possessions ever. I will place a photo of it for you to see soon.Cheers, Solange
Posted by: Fiona | 30th September 2010 View profile
Hi Wendy, We brought all our volunteers little glass angels from a cheap shop (reject cheap as chips etc) & they come in a nice box only $2 each & picked a small posy of flowers for them all & invited them to have lunch with the residents. I talked with kitchen staff & came up with a nice meal & the volunteers loved it. You could also take just the volunteers out for a coffee & cake this way they don't have to do anything, they can be waited on. As for male volunteers! Im at a loss myself & am waiting for replies. Hope this helps, Kind regards Fiona
Posted by: Annie | 29th September 2010 View profile
http://yooyahcloud.com/VOLUNTEERSA/eISoYb/Books__merchandising_old_logo__for_web.pdf - This is a link to Volunteering SA where they have great volunteering badges $3.20 each you could give out to your wonderful volunteers. I also make a heart shaped card with 'Volunteering is a work of heart' on it and give with heart shaped chocolates in a bag. You can give petrol vouchers or hold a special lunch at a fixed price venue (some Bowls clubs have $5 lunches!). Good volunteers are such an asset. As for getting men to an activity: gardening is especially effective and having male guests to help out at activities encourages the men to come out more - I know it is so hard! Such a female dominated environment. Good luck! Annie
Posted by: Annie | 28th September 2010 View profile
Hi Wendy - 20 volunteers is a wonderful asset to you! Ideas for presents: the usual wine/chocolates, petrol vouchers, small plants or cater a special lunch just for them. Also hand out certificates of appreciation and attached is a website that has wonderful volunteer badges to give - only $3.20 each to show your appreciation. http://yooyahcloud.com/VOLUNTEERSA/eISoYb/Books__merchandising_old_logo__for_web.pdf I give out little cards too saying: 'Volunteering is a work of heart' with heart chocolates. Good volunteers are really a treasure. Annie
Posted by: wendy | 27th September 2010 View profile
hi all ,would anyone out there have simple ideas to make /give to our volunteers, all in all we have approx. 20, so costing be minimal ?? Also ways to get "the blokes"out and interested in activities. In our facility we have the majority female residents ,tryed many different ideas for the guys ?? And hey wouldnt it be nice to have more male carers as well !! ? Thanks heaps for this web site ...loving it
Posted by: Fiona | 21st September 2010 View profile
Hi There, I would really love some fresh ideas for Afl grand final day. If anyone would like to give feedback on what they do it would really help. Thanks
Posted by: Fiona | 20th September 2010 View profile
Does anyone have any suggestions for Afl grand final, We are having a bacon & egg breakfast & i wanted to try different Games but im at a blank right now. Help please.
Posted by: Susan | 19th September 2010 View profile
Regarding Care Plan for Chickens. I would suggest developing a Pet Care Plan. Including; type/s of animals, food and water requirements, when to feed, who will feed and when, maintenance of bedding and housing etc.... Regards Sue
Posted by: Solange | 19th September 2010 View profile
We have recently purchased a chicken coop and the excitement of the residents is palpable. They go for a walk to the chicken coop all day long.We only have three chickens and when we finally got some eggs, well, didn't everybody wanted to touch them, show them off and, cook with them! It was a tremendous success in our case.
Posted by: sharon | 18th September 2010 View profile
you have recently added pet therapy with a dog have you got any evidence based documention for chickens
Posted by: Solange | 17th September 2010 View profile
Having a basic understanding of one or more of the following can help you enhance your activity program: Aromatherapy, Massage Therapy, Horticultural therapy and multi-sensory therapy.
Posted by: Catherine | 17th September 2010 View profile
Helen found sound for health and multisensory very good as accreditation want sensory programs, its important. Did 2 days. Catherine
Posted by: Helen | 16th September 2010 View profile
Hi Just wondering what courses anyone has taken other than their diversional therapies studies that have been beneficial to their workplace. eg. aromatherapy or massage. Thanks Helen
Posted by: Solange | 6th September 2010 View profile
Hy Maryann, where I work we have activities shifts 7 days a week from 7:30am till 7:30pm. It is a High Care facility and we do a lot of individual activities with our clients. Massage, reading, conversation, music listening, poems, scrap book making, bean bags games, card playing, reminiscing, and many other sensory suitable activities.
Posted by: MARYANN | 5th September 2010 View profile
yes l need info on ACFI too please thanx MARAYNN
Posted by: MARYANN | 5th September 2010 View profile
At present we have a fantastic activites program which we are always trying to improve our management now wants our activities staff to do PERSONNAL CARE WORK in the pm as they are short staffed does anyone else do this?? we have a 6 day a week program and provided activities on sundays also - not as formal as weekdays, l would love some feed back and some activities times/hours from other facilities and programs used HELP maryann
Posted by: Debi | 19th August 2010 View profile
Thanks Fiona I will ring around. Debi :)
Posted by: kerry | 19th August 2010 View profile
Thanks Solange for postcards exchange section. I hope this will generate a lot of interest and excitement within facilities and forge ties with other facilities. I would like to make special mention of Elizabeth's bio from Feilding from New Zealand. Her love for her work shone brightly. She is an absolute inspiration for anyone- including me that sometimes becomes discouraged within the workplace. You have made my day Elizabeth! Cheers Kerry
Posted by: Fiona | 19th August 2010 View profile
Hi Debbie regarding the clown day I know of a Rao who got a pony in & had it outside for the residents to pat & talk with the owner. I hope you may be able to contact someone as this was very successful. Kind regards Fiona
Posted by: Solange | 15th August 2010 View profile
The password exchange program has now been setup on the website - there is a new link at the bottom of the right hand vertical menu for members entitled 'Postcard Exchange'. Those of you who have already expressed an interest in the program have been added to the program however you may like to edit your details. Let me know how it goes!
Posted by: Christine | 15th August 2010 View profile
be nice to network really Kirsten I find theres very little support sometimes for DTs
Posted by: Solange | 14th August 2010 View profile
Hi Debi, what a great idea to have a \'Clown Day\'. Let us know how it turns up. Solange
Posted by: Christine | 14th August 2010 View profile
Im like pauline can you let me know about postcards?
Posted by: kirsten | 14th August 2010 View profile
Hi all. I would like to put my workplace address forward to the postcard exchange/penpal idea. We are currenlty in the process of having a dementia unit added to our facility and feel this would be great for ALL our residents. Cheers
Posted by: Debi | 13th August 2010 View profile
Hi everyone, just wanted to say once again i am really enjoying this site. Im a newly appointed Lifestyle Coordinator at a high care facility and we are having our annual clown day soon. Our lifestle girls & staff will all be dressed up in clown suits, we are having a magician coming in to entertain the residents & will be making popcorn,fairy floss,icecream cones in sherbert & sprinkles & spiders. Has anyone any other ideas please ? if so i would love you to share them. Thankyou Debi :)
Posted by: Pauline | 10th August 2010 View profile
Hi Solange, I am currently working as an AO/DT in a NSW facility and I am very interested in signing up for the postcard exchange program you are trying to get up and running. I feel it would be good for my Dementia Residents to have pen Pals from other states and this sounds a great way to do it. Pauline
Posted by: Solange | 27th July 2010 View profile
Hi Kim, thanks for your feedback. We have had a number of people expressing interest in participating in a post card exchange so we are creating a special section on our website to facilitate this. We'll send out a newsletter with all the details in the next few days.
Posted by: Solange | 27th July 2010 View profile
Thanks Catherine! I have sent an email to you and Kerry so that you may exchange addresses and get started with the postcard exchange.
Posted by: Kim Needham | 27th July 2010 View profile
The postcard idea is great. We have 4 nursing homes on campus and at least 2 at this stage would like to be on the list for postcard exchange. We would particularly like people from other cultures eg Latvian, Lithuanian, German and Russian. Kim
Posted by: catherine | 26th July 2010 View profile
Love to give kerry my email so our low care facility can send them a post card and exchange. I have a pen pal in south Australia another Village and it's great. Please give her my email address so we can exchange addresses and ill send a post card and a picture of us writing on it Thanks
Posted by: Solange | 26th July 2010 View profile
Hi Catherine, I am sure it will turn up beautiful.
Posted by: Solange | 26th July 2010 View profile
Hi Kerry, it is a good idea. I will try to get a group of Nursing Homes willing to have their addresses on Golden Carers for that purpose.
Posted by: kerry Bickerton | 23rd July 2010 View profile
Hi Solange Our Residents love to receive post cards from other facilities.The cards generate a lot of discussion.I wold love to exchange postcards with other aged care organisations around Australia & New Zealand.Can you facilitate this in any way?
Posted by: Solange | 20th July 2010 View profile
Let us know what activity works for you Michelle. Good luck with your new position.
Posted by: Michelle | 20th July 2010 View profile
Hi, I\'ve just become a co-ordinator of a social club. Amazing clients but challenging and last couple of weeks have been tough but now I think I am going to sail along! Amazing site! SO glad I stumbled upon it. Can wait to try things out and add some ideas and comments. Thankyou!
Posted by: Kim | 3rd July 2010 View profile
Hi Michelle, I have made folders of both male & female movies stars with their biographies. GREAT SUCCESS for an activity which can be "pulled out" or planned. I collected my information by just googling Movie Stars, you will find plenty! Good luck. Cheryl
Posted by: hazel | 2nd July 2010 View profile
Just joined, this site is very informative. I just put my application as an activity officer today......if I will get the job, this would be very helpful. All the information here, is awesome. Thanks....
Posted by: Maria | 10th March 2010 View profile
Just joined. Can't wait for the payment to go thro as it all looks so interesting!
Posted by: judy | 2nd March 2010 View profile
Great site keeps getting better. Can we have some more info on doing good notes eg 1:1 documentation. Cheers Judy nsw
Posted by: Peteer Kindermann | 31st January 2010 View profile
A very interesting site. I will join your group
Posted by: katrina | 30th January 2010 View profile
what a great web site maybe more ideas for respite clients day respite
Posted by: judy | 24th August 2009 View profile
great website - just been told by a quality improvement contractor on site that a one on one can be 5 mins and counts?? i was under impression it was 30minutes and could be spread over the day? im in nsw. Any ideas? thanks
Posted by: Margaret | 14th July 2009 View profile
Hello Solange, I have been working in aged care for the past few years with the desire to do more Diversional Therapy work. I see the need for a more Holistic approach to give those in care improvement and a reason to exist with fufilment and dignity. I now have that opportunity by my director to join the team we have at our facilty. Look forward to information from this site and learning from other skilled person's in this field of work who pass on valuable info for us all to give a better life to those with Dementia. Thankyou..
Posted by: Lenni | 6th July 2009 View profile
Hi Solange, the site looks awesome and very easy to get around. Just wondering if there is any info on gentle seated exercise for dementia specific people on DVD? Im just starting out as a DT in acute high care and am looking for DVD's I can use in the morning for the residents. I have also passed on your site to other DT's at my facility and they are very excited! Well done, you have some great ideas and the site will be invaluable to me and others.