We don't have a PA system, but we do have a program called One Call Now. It's a subscription service. We can record messages or type them in. Then they go out as a phone call to the whole group or to chosen smaller groups. It has really helped us to get information out without going door to door or leaving notes.
I have been doing the morning announcements for the past 15 years, and our residents really looked forward to them each morning. Unfortunately, I was instructed by our head office, late last year, that i had to stop, because I was using the fire system PA, and this is not permitted. So many residents, staff and families have expressed their disappointment. I have also found that attendance at many activities has dropped off, simply because I can't get around to every room to remind people, even though everyone has a printed copy of the activities program. (We have 144 residents)
Unfortunately we're not allowed to do overhead announcements because it is contrary to a "homelike" environment which can lead to a citation during survey. Morning announcements sound fun though!
Thank you Golden carers for all the great ideas. My residents really enjoy the quizzes and some of the craft activities. They especially want "This day in history". I try to make it a morning ritual after the newspaper reading. This month there are so many great ideas for St Patrick's day, many I have printed off to use. I take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy St Patrick's day. Here is my beautiful cat, she is much more photogenic than me!