llawson

Leah's Reply: Activities are one of the most important elements in a long-term care facility, and I think it is definitely becoming more recognized and respected. New positions that require additional education are popping up all the time, or being required by state licensing. I have an education background myself, and kind of stumbled into the field of activity. I am so glad that I was given the opportunity to better the overall functioning of seniors in my community through long term care services. I can not see me doing anything else, and the opportunites to be active in the field are always growing. I went from and ADC Activities Director to also having the responsibilities of an Activities Coordinator who coordinates not only ADC activities but also those for homebound participants as well as those who reside in nursing homes. Keep striving toward your goal of bringing joy to those who participate in long-term care and never lose sight of what you want to accomplish in this field. Hope this helps, and good luck!

Leah's Reply: The MEPAP1 course offered by the Activity Director's Network has been my first ever online class. I have really enjoyed the convenience of taking it online. I would have had to take it three hours away and be gone from my family for two weeks, and that was a crash course. This outlet has been much better for me. Hearing your excitement with working in a long term care facility, is a great indication that you will be successful with your class. Just take one assignment at a time and pace yourself. Never procrastinate with reading or completing assignments, and have fun with the new knowledge you obtain! Share it with your residents and use your experiences to progress in your studies. Hope this helps and good luck!

Leah's Reply: Aza, Definitely do not be nervous. You will do great in your new role since you have had experience with the frail elderly. I would highlight your moderate to severe dementia group by using simple "sorting" activities like creating piles of buttons and poof-balls or cotton balls etc... This is a great fine motor activity that can be accomplished by lower functioning participants. Sensory orientation is also very important. Allowing the group to smell, touch, taste, and see various items is a great activity. I love bowls of rice with objects that they can pick out or a bowl full of decorative rocks and warm water with essential oils for touch and smell. Physical games like ball toss with colorful balls of different sizes and textures helps with physical and sensory. Along with this site, check out: www.activityconnection.com, or the Creative Forecasting publications. Hope this information helps, and good luck.