Solange

Unfortunately, Kathy, some clients are hard to motivate for many reasons, and gathering them into groups for activities is a real challenge. Observe if the clients ‘doing nothing’ are happy or sad (depressed). If they are happy, don’t worry, they have earned the right to ‘do nothing’ and we should respect that. However, if they seem sad it should be investigated. Depression is prevalent in long-term care. You probably would fare better if you did one-on-one visits, and if you don’t have the time, seek volunteers to read something meaningful to them, take them for a stroll outdoors, give them a hand massage, look at photos together, toss a ball, sort poker chips, string beads, fold napkins, sing songs.

Great ideas for token prizes Deanna. Thank you for your feedback.

Wonderful Edie! Thank you for sharing!

Hi Rachel, thank you for your feedback. You are quite right, pre-war music has nothing to do with 1970s music. I guess what we had in mind was a little reminiscing; people born in the 1930s and 1940s would be raising children in the 1960s and 1970s and would remember songs from this time - The Beatles and The Seekers to mention a few. We wanted to provide reminiscing for the time when pre-war seniors were raising their children. It may have been one of the best times in their lives.

Hi, Janey, this is a wonderful idea. You may play it as an Intergenerational activity or with staff residents' relatives, and volunteers. When School children visit the facility you have them placing themselves in front of each wheelchair when the music ceases. Joy and giggles will ensue.

Thank you, Kathleen, it is a lovely way to celebrate birthdays.

Hi, Paul, I know what you mean. Sadly, many facilities have this problem; not enough staff to ensure quality care; task oriented instead of care oriented. Unlike childcare centers and hospitals there is no legislative requirement for staff-to-resident ratio and therefore it is up to management to provide it, and many don’t deem it necessary. Job satisfaction and peace of mind are crucial to well-being and I am glad you found a solution.

Hi Janey, play music from the 50s and 60s to listen to and perhaps to sing-along; informal chatting should be encouraged. If you can get hold of a karaoke player it would be good. Match staff/residents to sing together. Songs from Dean Martin, Perry Como, and Frank Sinatra, or any favorite songs from residents. Regarding food, some dips and water crackers, some fruit, beer and shandy and you will have a great Happy Hour. Good luck!

Yes, Deb, frustration, and exhaustion happen to all of us sooner or later. Be aware and be safe. Thank you for your feedback, it is much appreciated.

Thank you for your feedback, Susan.