elisabeth

My best advice in training a new assistant is to let her shadow and observe someone else doing activities for as long as it takes for her to be comfortable. Then, transition her by having her assist witih activities. The next step would be to observe her conducting her own activities, providing constructive feedback. Also, give her time and space to get to know the residents. I am an activities assistant new to LTC and did not receive adequate training (I was given books to read) . . . I just want to say the more hands-on you can be with her, the BETTER.

We have a Music Therapist (and Music Therapy Intern) in our facility. She has created a Resident Jug Band and a Tone Chime Choir that each practice at least once per week (a great activity in itself). They go to jug band competitions with other facilities. The Tone Chime Choir does performances in the community. Perhaps you could check into facilities who have their own music groups . . . then you get the benefit of their talents, and they get to perform . . . a definite WIN-WIN situation. I must say . . . they are AMAZING!!!!!

For National Nursing Home Week, our facility was kind of lame - it was a week just like any other. There was a family BBQ in each of our units, which was FUN for those who had family members show up, but not much outside of that for residents or emloyees. I would like to have seen more special things done for our residents. Staff appreciation was shown by "Bright Shirt Day", "Beach Day", "Western Day", "Sports Day" . . . if you dressed the theme, you got to wear jeans. There was hardly any participation. Hope there is more emphasis put on those who matter next year . . .

I would not only give her a job description to review and sign with your explanation, but also give her a copy of the organizational chart showing the chain of command. The Administrator should be made aware of the situation, and support you by making it clear that your employee is to go to YOU. If you arent' already, I would log all incidents - whether considered large or small - to have documentation on hand if/when you need it.

There is a book and DVD set called "Creating Moments of Joy" that is absolutely phenomenal in showing how important activities are and how vital it is to treat each resident as an individual. The DVD's are a presentation by the author of the book - it is done in sections so you can pick and choose what you want to show based upon what your needs are. There is also valuable material for family members and how they can relate to their loved ones. Sorry, I don't recall the name of the author . . . I'm sure you can find it out there somewhere. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Ideally, all staff is on board to help get residents to activities. We aim for a "target" schedule of activities for each individual resident based upon his or her interests. Then nurses and aides are made aware of it so they can plan cares, bathroom breaks, etc. accordingly. They can also help encourage residents to attend activities . . . the more positive reinforcement, the better. This system also allows us to plan our activities to target as many residents as we can, despite their varied interests.