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Jam 9th Oct 2021 Activities Coordinator
Hi everyone! I am a solo diversional therapist in a 35 bed facility that has a number of young people with disabilities. I'm talking about 20 yrs. old - mid adult and majority of them are males. I am having a hard time thinking of engaging activities as all of them are physically challenged and think activities are for children. Music and happy hours is a given, though assistance from care staff to transfer them to the chairs is another story. I can't even bring them on outings coz our van would only allow 1 wheelchair and most of them are unable to get up on the van. I am really frustrated and of course management would want to increase attendance to the activities.

Any advise of suggestions is very much appreciated. Thank you!
Susan 12th Oct 2021 Activity Director
Hi jam
You have quite a challenging situation
Though this article says how to plan an activity program for senior care some of the tips will help you

https://www.goldencarers.com/tips-for-writing-successful-activity-programs-for-senior-care/3844/
I think it’s most important to find out what the residents like to do
Then you can try to adapt and modify what they like to do so that they can do it
If it is difficult to take the residents out bring the outside in
You could get some things to eat from McDonald’s or a similar restaurant
Could have the residents contribute to their meal and they can earn money playing games or participating in activities
One game which is not childish but easy to play and can be adapted and modified so most anyone can play

https://www.goldencarers.com/search/?search_tag=Activity&search=Bunco
I used large dice because they are easier to handle and easier to see
I had some residents who could drop the dice on the floor
If you need help adapting the game for your crowd let me know
Also I like exercise
Card games
Other dice games
Watching sporting events with refreshments
Let me know what other ideas you may need


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