Jump to content

Search the Community

Showing results for tags 'activity director'.

The search index is currently processing. Current results may not be complete.
  • Search By Tags

    Type tags separated by commas.
  • Search By Author

Content Type


Categories

  • Activity Director Articles

Product Groups

  • Activity Director Forms
  • Activity Director Books
  • Social Service Books
  • Just for Seniors
    • Senior Books
    • Arts and Crafts
    • Senior Games
    • Memory Puzzles
    • Large JigSaw Puzzles
    • Group Games
    • Special Needs
  • Entertainment Activities
    • Comedy DVD's
    • ArmChair Travels
    • Ideas in Music
    • SingAlongs & Gospel
  • Activity Printables

Forums

  • WELCOME
    • Message Board News!
    • Open Discussion
    • Introduce Yourself
    • Activity Jobs Lisiting
    • Facility Entertainers
  • Activity Forum - Specific Topics
    • Sharing Activities
    • Activity Charting and Forms
    • Policies and Procedures
    • Certification and CEU's
    • Jobs Description and Wage Compare
    • Open Discussion - Alzheimers
    • Adult Day Care
  • Care Planning
    • Care Plans

Categories

  • Newsletters, Calendars, Forms, Puzzles, PrintOuts, FunFacts
  • Activity Director Documentation & Regulation Forms

Find results in...

Find results that contain...


Date Created

  • Start

    End


Last Updated

  • Start

    End


Filter by number of...

Joined

  • Start

    End


Group


AIM


MSN


Website URL


ICQ


Yahoo


Jabber


Skype

Found 12 results

  1. Turkey Windsocks Supplies Needed to Make Turkey Windsocks: Recycled Food Can (cleaned and dried, with top and bottom removed) Brown Paint Elmer’s CraftBond Quick Dry Glue Elmer’s Medium Tip Painters Pen, Orange Large Googly Eyes Ribbons in Fall Colors Feathers, Felt, and/or Construction Paper in Fall Colors (can mix and match) Masking Tape, optional Directions: Start by painting the can brown and allowing it to... Click link below for full tutorial! HappinessisHomemade.Net How to Play Print and distribute these Thanksgiving Trivia Quiz game cards among the players along with a pen and pencil. Ask them to circle the right answer within 5 minutes. Set the timer. Ask them to put their pencils down after five minutes have passed. Check the answers using this Trivia Quiz Answer key. The person who has given all or most right answers will be the winner. Answer Key Ingredients (Serves 7-9) For the Mini Pumpkin Pies: 2 Deep Dish Frozen Pie Crusts 9 inch 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree 1/4 cup Brown Sugar 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup 1/4 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice 1 Egg beaten 6 " Lollipop Sticks optional For the Glaze: 1/2 cup Icing Sugar 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract 2 to 4 Tablespoons Maple Syrup Instructions For the Mini Pumpkin Pies: Defrost the frozen pie crusts on the counter for one hour... Click link below for full recipe! OneLittleProject.com Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. We envision facilities that feel like homes and that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe the exchange of education and wisdom between the most talented teachers and passionate students is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. Copyright © 2021 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2810 US HWY 190 W #100-A9 Livingston, Texas 77351
  2. View this email in your browser Celebrate Chia Pet Day November 29th I am sure we all remember Chia Pets. They took the world by storm years before any of us realized that the spouts they created are also mega superfood status. Have residents create their own unique chia pets and once they have fully spouted, plan a superfood feast to celebrate. These sprouts are very mildly flavored and go great on sandwiches, salads and Buddha Bowls. Celebrate International Tongue Twister Day November 8th The 14 toughest tongue-twisters in the English language Source: Morgan Cutolo , Reader's Digest 1. 'Pad kid poured curd pulled cod.' A team of researchers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology say that this is the most difficult tongue twister in the world. Can you say it ten times fast? The psychologists who created this tongue twister said that people who attempted to say it either stopped right in the middle of saying it because it was too difficult or could only get through it once and weren't able to repeat it. [The Guinness Book of World Records disagrees...scroll down to see their top pick.] 2. 'Brisk brave brigadiers brandished broad bright blades, blunderbusses, and bludgeons—balancing them badly.' 3. 'If you must cross a course cross cow across a crowded cow crossing, cross the cross coarse cow across the crowded cow crossing carefully.' 4. 'How can a clam cram in a clean cream can?' 5. 'Imagine an imaginary menagerie manager managing an imaginary menagerie.' 6. 'Send toast to ten tense stout saints' ten tall tents.' 7. 'Rory the warrior and Roger the worrier were reared wrongly in a rural brewery.' 8. 'Six sick hicks nick six slick bricks with picks and sticks.' 10. 'The thirty-three thieves thought that they thrilled the throne throughout Thursday.' 11. 'The sixth sick sheik's sixth sheep's sick.' [According to The Guinness Book of World Records, this is the world's hardest tongue twister, not #1 on this list. You be the judge.] 12. 'Can you can a canned can into an un-canned can like a canner can can a canned can into an un-canned can?' 13. 'Thirty-three thirsty, thundering thoroughbreds thumped Mr. Thurber on Thursday.' 14. 'Six sleek swans swam swiftly southwards.' This article has been condensed for space. Check out the whole shabang below... Full Article Celebrate National Nacho Day November 5th Mmmm...nachos. This IS a day to celebrate! You can setup your nacho bar as an actual bar or you can fire up the cart for a room to room delivery service. There are two school's of thought on whether chips should be provided with melted cheddar on them or if a crock pot with liquid cheese is the way to go. For our purposes, a crock pot is probably the best bet to keep things fresh, warm and convenient. For an added perk, this lady created a Desert Nacho Bar, which I think your residents will be all about! I know I am! Next Class Starts November 2nd Visit https://activitydirectoruniversity.org for more information. Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. We envision facilities that feel like homes and that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe the exchange of education and wisdom between the most talented teachers and passionate students is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. Copyright © 2021 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2810 US HWY 190 W #100-A9 Livingston, Texas 77351
  3. Hello! I am Mike Smolka. I am the Owner of Photo Finish Racing, the board game... The BIIIG board game! I make contact with you on the referral from Rhonda Cap, the Activities Director at Leisure World AZ, here in Mesa. We have arranged to schedule a Kentucky Derby style event here and Photo Finish Racing will be the center piece of this activity. Quite by happenstance, I was able to introduce the game in person to Rhonda and her assistant, Jamie, and they agreed that this game would be a terrific fit among other community activities they offer. They suggested I reach out to a larger audience... and here we are! My father invented the game originally over 70 years ago, but we just recently have finally brought it to market.... VERY FEW people have ever heard of us... until now.... We feature a HUGE playing surface and the simple but effective rules promote ENGAGEMENT among everyone present... Please see (ME! in our short tutorial video) at PhotoFinishRacing.com under the Rules tab. Easy to Learn, Easy to Play, and COMPLETELY ENGAGING THROUGHOUT! What questions might this extended community have for me? Thank you again, Mike "Smoke" Smolka Owner/President Photo Finish Racing... and Proud Sponsor of the PDJF -Permanently Disabled Jockey's Fund
  4. View this email in your browser Wandering Residents In residential aged care facilities there are many factors that may influence residents to wander. These commonly include: Inactivity/boredom – lack of activity may lead the person to wander around looking for something to do. In some instances wandering dissipates loneliness and the behavior in and of itself, is often a substitute for lack of social interaction. In contradiction, wandering surprisingly may also be a response to overstimulation and overwhelming situations. Fear, agitation, and confusion commonly lead to “dementia” wandering outdoors or in public environments. Some emotional cues that can cause wandering include: increased levels of stress or fear. Residents with “dementia” who wander are moving about in ways that may appear aimless but often have purpose. People may wander in response to an unmet basic need like human contact, hunger, or thirst; a noisy or confusing environment; or because they are experiencing some type of distress, like pain or the need to use the toilet. Wandering can be helpful or dangerous, depending on the situation. The Balancing Act It’s a balancing act for sure but it is important to look beyond the words or behaviors to discover the feelings that the resident might earnestly be trying to express. Strong emotions may also be caused by unmet needs. Staff must implement the process of deduction to work out what needs are not being addressed and meet the resident “where they are” when possible. Residents may wander for any number of reasons: Physical needs Psychological and social needs Cognitive needs Non-goal-directed wandering requires a response in a manner that addresses both safety issues and an evaluation to identify root causes to the degree possible. Moving about the facility aimlessly may indicate that the resident is frustrated, anxious, bored, hungry, or depressed. Although people who wander may gain social contact, exercise, and stimulation, the resident may consequently become lost or exhausted. Hence, they may become overwhelmed and over tired, which predictably causes sudden outwardly hasty behaviors such as wandering or higher probability of injuries to self and/or others. Person-Centered Care for Wandering Behavior Simply stated, some basic principles for people with dementia stems from understanding and supporting the residents’ rights. To be sure, the onset of dementia does not preclude inherently due personal rights. Understand that the individual beyond the “dementia” is becoming increasingly hidden rather than lost. This means that he/she is still there, and it’s your mission to reclaim the essence of the individual that once was and bring them out of hiding. Those who were highly sociable and had an active lifestyle prior to having mental decline are most likely to wander. The use of certain antipsychotic medications can cause side effects that increase the desire to wander and be in perpetual motion. Sedating medications can also increase the risk for wandering due to confusion. Other causes of wandering include the following: Memory deficits Poor vision Disorientation Language deficits Searching for security Searching to fulfill an unmet need such as to relieve hunger, thirst, pain, constipation, and the need to urinate Searching for a loved one Boredom Person centered care plans must consequently demonstrate this principle. Here are some examples of appropriate goals: Personalize the resident’s surroundings. Interpret behavior from the resident’s viewpoint. Acknowledge and validate the resident’s feelings. Involve the resident with dementia in decision-making. Create target goals for the resident to achieve based on resident history and his/her skills that have not yet been lost. Focus on the journey- not the results. Evaluate the Behavior Physical Needs: Does the resident need to use the bathroom? Is the behavior due to medication side affects? Is the resident: Hungry, thirsty, or generally uncomfortable? Searching for a place that is warmer or cooker, darker or lighter? Looking for a place that is more familiar (does the resident have familiar belongings in his/her room)? Responding to physical illness, e.g., dehydration, infection, congestive heart failure, etc.? Psychological and Social Needs: Is the resident: Restless or agitated and trying to relieve anxiety? Bored, lonely, or seeking company? Following a previously familiar imprinted routine: acting out movement to and from the bus stop to pick up the children – going to work? Cognitive Needs: Is the resident: Disoriented or lost? Disoriented due to medication side affects Overstimulated or understimulated? For the resident, wandering may be positive if it fulfills a need for exercise, sensory stimulation, or purposeful behavior. Many nursing homes provide a safe environment on a locked unit for this reason. The negative side of wandering is it may lead to falls, excess fatigue, anxiety, accidental exposure to certain chemicals, altercations with other residents and unintended wandering outdoors where more danger may be waiting to cause harm. Make it your mission to find the balance in the day and life of your resident by looking beyond the words or behaviors to discover the feelings that the resident might earnestly be trying to express. Have a topic request or question for Celeste? Send them over to celestechase@activitydirector.org Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. We envision facilities that feel like homes and that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe the exchange of education and wisdom between the most talented teachers and passionate students is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. Copyright © 2021 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2810 US HWY 190 W #100-A9 Livingston, Texas 77351
  5. View this email in your browser WHAT IS THE LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM (LTCOP)? The Ombudsman program advocates for resident of nursing homes, board and care, assisted living and other similar adult care facilities. State Ombudsmen and their designated representatives work to resolve problems individual residents may encounter and effect change at the local, state, and national levels with the objective of improving the quality of care for the elderly population. The ombudsman service offers a way for older adults to voice their complaints and have concerns addressed so they can live with dignity and respect. Ombudsman provides information about how to find a facility and what to do to get quality care. They are trained to resolve problems and assist the resident with complaints. However, unless the resident gives the Ombudsman permission to share his/her concerns, these matters are kept confidential. Federal Older Americans Act (OAA) Under the federal Older Americans Act (OAA) every state is required to have an Ombudsman Program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements in the long term care system. Each state has an Office of the State Long Term Care Ombudsman, headed by a full time State Long Term Care Ombudsman who directs the program statewide. Staff and thousands of volunteers are designated by the State Ombudsmen as representatives to directly serve the individual resident’s needs. What is the role of the ombudsman in a healthcare setting? The healthcare ombudsman is employed by the state department of insurance, and works with consumers to resolve conflicts, determine long-term care needs, and provide guidance in bringing insurance carriers and the people who need them together. A nursing home ombudsman advocates for the residents of long-term care facilities. Nursing home ombudsmen protects vulnerable residents and help defend their most basic rights. They handle complaints related to physical and verbal abuse, neglect, and other forms of improper care. NOTE: A Long-Term Care Ombudsman can address most any issue that arises in a long-term care or assisted living facility. Commonly, Ombudsmen will investigate any violations of residents' rights and dignity, and any physical or mental abuse, whether intentional or not. What Concerns Does an Ombudsman Address? Below are a few of the most commonly sought after complaint resolutions that the Ombudsman may need to address: Slow responses to resident calls Poor facility food quality Staffing issues (mistreatment, shortages, inadequate skills, etc.,) A lack of social opportunities & interactions Disruptions in sleep Violation of residents' rights or dignity Physical, verbal, or mental abuse, deprivation of services necessary to maintain residents' physical and mental health, or unreasonable confinement Poor quality of care, including inadequate personal hygiene and slow response to requests for assistance Improper transfer or discharge of patient Inappropriate use of chemical or physical restraints In addition to identifying, investigating, and resolving complaints, Ombudsman programs responsibilities will include: Educating residents, their family and facility staff about residents’ rights, good care practices, and similar long term services and supports resources; Ensuring residents have regular and timely access to ombudsman services; Providing technical support for the development of resident and family councils; Advocating for changes to improve residents’ quality of life and care; Providing information to the public regarding long term care facilities and services, residents’ rights, and legislative and policy issues; Representing resident interests before governmental agencies; and Seeking legal, administrative and other remedies to protect residents. Ombudsman programs do not: Conduct licensing and regulatory inspections or investigations; Perform Adult Protective Services (APS) investigations; or Provide direct care for residents. Residents’ Rights Ombudsman programs help residents, family members, and others understand residents rights and support residents in exercising their rights guaranteed by law> most nursing homes participate in Medicare and Medicaid, and therefore must meet federal requirements, including facility responsibilities and residents rights. Have a topic request or question for Celeste? Send them over to celestechase@activitydirector.org Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. We envision facilities that feel like homes and that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe the exchange of education and wisdom between the most talented teachers and passionate students is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. How to Become an Activity Director in the US Copyright © 2021 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2810 US HWY 190 W #100-A9 Livingston, Texas 77351
  6. View this email in your browser The Unsung Hero of Long Term Care Facilities The COVID-19 pandemic has come in like a lion (through infection); ruthlessly and relentlessly devouring the physical well being of the individual from which this disease takes claim. The other less recognized, less publicized, and profoundly less understood yet equally sinister devastation bestowed by this infection is the retaliatory affects of social isolation and other psychological stresses affecting our aging population living in nursing homes during this pandemic. In addition, the sudden onset of COVID-19 has unceremoniously and expeditiously eliminated the once familiar daily routines that residents have come to know and expect. The Challenges The impact of current pandemic related stressors and social isolation cannot be overstated. Facilities have justifiably but abruptly ended group stimulation, social interactions and temporarily paused self-directed choices that have been deemed necessary to reduce high risk infection spread for facility residents and the staff. Long Term Care Facilities’ residents suddenly and unexpectedly find themselves confined to their rooms without social dining, interest based group pursuits, and no longer allowed to have in-person family visits. Emotional disruptions of such magnitude may perpetuate mental health conditions such as, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), depression, loneliness and anxiety that may lead to life-threatening status and failure to thrive. Highly elevated emotional stressors may be detrimental to the functioning of the individuals’ immune system. Additionally, elevated loneliness, anxiety, and unrelenting fears may further lead to a number of deleterious consequences, such as high blood pressure, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The Unsung Heroes Claim Their Place Amongst the tenacious and dedicated nurses, doctors, and therapists is a member of the Interdisciplinary Team that goes unnoticed. These healthcare professionals work day in and day out in the midst of this pandemic to support the emotional health of our elderly population living in Long Term Care facilities. These are the Long Term Care nursing home “Unsung Heroes” of the Covid-19 epidemic. The nursing home Therapeutic Programming Professional takes responsibility for resident “engagement” and partners closely with the other IDT members in the continuum of care dedicated to delivering “whole health and wellness”. These professionals create facility programming intended to support the residents’ emotional well being which in turn, greatly helps to reduces imposed epidemic related stressors. Consequently, leading to better immunity and that is a “golden ticket” with unlimited value. These professionals focus on the residents’ personal interests and individualized needs. They create the pathway for each unique resident so they may continue enjoying the same leisure quality of life interests which they had previously come to treasure during their lifetime. Supporting the residents’ choice to continue enjoying deep roots preferences allows them to continue being connected to their personal identity well into aging years. The Spirit to Succeed One can only imagine the immense challenges brought on by the pandemic social distancing and mask infection control practices or the spirit and tenacity these professionals must draw upon to support and maintain resident connectivity at a time when imposed limitations curtail even the best of those well laid out plans. These programs may help residents spend time constructively, thereby decreasing loneliness and anxiety while maintaining social distancing. In addition, these trained professionals collaborate with the clinical staff and therapists to utilize clinical & psychology approved therapeutic approaches. Here are several suggestions to help reduce social isolation and improve engagement with residents: Non-group or solitary interventions, such as laughter therapy, horticultural therapy, and reminiscence therapy, can be more effective in reducing residents’ feelings of loneliness. Staff have transformed into surrogate family members with frequent and more lengthy contacts. Have them wear photos and name tags on top of their PPE. Regular video chats with family members facilitated by social work and/or therapeutic programming staff is essential. Regular telehealth visits should be provided by doctors and other therapists. Celebratory, fun, and interesting snacks, treats, and programming (e.g., music therapy) can be brought to the door, room, and bedside. Drive-thru family visits to the facility can be set up, using masks and social distancing. Offer in rooms stimulation via video and/or closed-circuit TV. We must remember that ALL front line caregivers are true heroes, facing daily stress that can be overwhelming for the benefit of those they serve. Heartfelt gratitude to every healthcare “Essential Personnel”! Whether in Long Term Care or Hospital Critical Care, it cannot be overstated that family members and close friends lack adequate words, in any language, that will sufficiently convey the level of gratefulness and thankfulness to those devoted nurses, doctors and therapist and Therapeutic Programming Professionals that remain dedicated despite potential exposure and personal risks. From each and everyone one of us! https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-mental-health-in-long-term-care-settings Have a topic request or question for Celeste? Send them over to celestechase@activitydirector.org Buy Now We Proudly Support : Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. We envision facilities that feel like homes and that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe the exchange of education and wisdom between the most talented teachers and passionate students is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. Copyright © 2021 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2010 US HWY 190 W Ste 120 Livingston, Texas 77351
  7. Why ADLs and IADLs Matter These terms stand for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). They represent key life tasks that people need to manage, in order to live at home and be fully independent. Accurate assessment of the individuals “ADLs or IADLs” functionality are in great part essential information to planning facility programs that meet the needs of the resident population served. Difficulties with ADLs and IADLs often correspond to how much help, supervision, and hands-on care an older person needs. This can determine the cost of care and the level of care within a residential living facility. It also determines whether someone is considered “safe” to live at home or even whether a person meets eligibility requirements for certain long-term care services. Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) These are the basic self-care tasks that we initially learn as very young children. They are sometimes referred to as “Basic Activities of Daily Living” (BADLs). They include: Walking, or otherwise getting around the home or outside. The technical term for this is “ambulating.” Feeding, as in being able to get food from a plate into one’s mouth. Dressing and grooming, as in selecting clothes, putting them on, and adequately managing one’s personal appearance. Toileting, which means getting to and from the toilet, using it appropriately, and cleaning oneself. Bathing, washing one’s face and body in the bath or shower. Transferring, which means being able to move from one body position to another. This includes being able to move from a bed to a chair, or into a wheelchair. This can also include the ability to stand up from a bed or chair in order to grasp a walker or other assistive device. For each ADL, people can vary from needing just a little help (such as a reminder or stand-by assist*) to full dependency, which requires others to do the task for them. *Stand-By Assistance refers to the need for someone to assist another individual performing activities that are basic to daily living. Unlike someone who needs continual supervision (i.e. all the time), a person who needs standby assistance has to have a caregiver within arm's reach of the individual at all times to prevent, by physical intervention as necessary, injury to the individual while the individual is performing the activity of daily living (ADL), for example, being ready to catch the individual if the individual falls while getting into or out of the bathtub or shower as part of bathing. Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) These are the self-care tasks we usually learn as teenagers. They require more complex thinking skills, including organizational skills. They include: Managing finances, such as paying bills and managing financial assets. Managing transportation, either via driving or by organizing other means of transport. Shopping and meal preparation. This covers everything required to get a meal on the table. It also covers shopping for clothing and other items required for daily life. Housecleaning and home maintenance. This means cleaning kitchens after eating, keeping one’s living space reasonably clean and tidy, and keeping up with home maintenance. Managing communication, such as the telephone and mail. Managing medications, which covers obtaining medications and taking them as directed. Why ADLs and IADLs Matter Generally, older adults need to be able to manage ADLs and IADLs in order to live independently without the assistance of another person. It’s important to understand ADLs when determining the proper level of care for the individual resident. Some ADLs require minimal care while others, like toileting, require 24/7 care. Geriatricians assess ADLs and IADLs as part of assessing an older person’s “function.” Problems with ADLs and IADLs usually reflect problems with physical health and/or cognitive health. Identifying functional difficulties can help us diagnose and manage important health problems. Another crucial role ADLs play is in providing a standard that many insurance companies use to determine the level of coverage to provide. The number of ADLs a senior needs help with, will usually determine whether or not they qualify for assistance in paying for an assisted living home, a nursing home, or in-home care. For many long-term care insurance policies, the inability to perform two ADLs or more is the point where the insurance provider will start paying on the policy. https://www.pioneernetwork.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Definitions-of-Common-Terms-Used-in-Long-Term-Care-and-Culture-Change.pdf Have a topic request or question for Celeste? Send them over to celestechase@activitydirector.org Workshop Objectives: Upon completion the student will understand the concept of unconditional love between a pet therapy animal and a person. The student will know the different purposes of therapy pets. Upon completion the student will understand the many benefits of pet therapy. The student will read a wide variety of Teacher Tales to illustrate the benefits. The student will be given information on several national pet therapy organizations that they can draw from to get their own pet therapy program started. Workshop Content: Love—Our Basic Need What is Pet Therapy? Benefits--Importance of Pet Therapy Pet Therapy Visits In-House Therapy Pets Inviting A Team to Your Facility Resources Information and Sample Forms of National Organizations ENROLL Now Now Enrolling for the September 1st class - Visit ActivityDirector.org to enroll. 114 Graduates this month! NAAPCC.net Est. 2011 Members NCCA Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. We envision facilities that feel like homes and that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe the exchange of education and wisdom between the most talented teachers and passionate students is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. Copyright © 2020 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2010 US HWY 190 W Ste 120 Livingston, Texas 77351
  8. Rob Sings for You remotely from Michigan! Hey Everyone, I am available at robcrozier123@gmail.com to offer live streams directly to whatever platform that we can configure together. I will say that Facebook works well. I can also do FaceTime or Skype. I offer a nice Sing a Long video (click for a sample of the actual video) to all of you on a sliding scale. I have recently posted a good quality St. Pat's concert for free. This was prerecorded and produced a little. Bio: Rob Crozier is a multi-instrumentalist performing throughout South East Michigan. Rob holds a BFA for Jazz and Contemporary Improvisation in Double Bass from University of Michigan. His teachers include Robert Hurst, Diana Gannett, David Friesen and Rufus Reid. Mr. Crozier’s twenty year musical career has included sharing bills with rock groups like Blues Traveler and Credence Clearwater Revisted, and jazz greats like Perry Robinson and Tony Malaby. Rob is the leader of “The Rob Crozier Ensemble” where he composes, plays jazz bass, didjeridoo and ethnic percussion. This ensemble tours the midwest as a featured artist in various festivals in support of his second CD, “Ocean Blue”. In addition to upright bass, Rob is sought after in Michigan as an electric bassist and plays with ensembles with styles such as Americana, folk, rock, pop, cajun, African and Celtic. He also performs regularly a “solo act” where he sings, plays guitarist, and harmonica. Mr. Crozier also actively performs and records with many exotic instruments such as didjeridoo, mbira, ethnic hand drums, For many years he was the curator of the live radio show, “Music is Freedom” on WCBN 88.3FM (U of Michigan radio) where his groups performed long, uninterrupted sets of improvised music. Rob is a main component of Nessa, where he helps Kelly arrange the ballads of the U.K. Here is a partial songlist: Take it Easy Old Time Rock n Roll Something Can't Buy Me Love Sixteen Tons Tiny Bubbles New York, New York Night and Day Ain't She Sweet All of Me All I Have to Do is Dream Amazing Grace Bye Bye Blackbird Clementine Crazy (Willie Nelson) Danny Boy Don't Fence Me In Down by the Riverside Five Foot Two Fly Me To the Moon Hey Good Lookin' Hound Dog A Four Leafed Clover I Saw the Light I've Been Workin' on the Railroad I've Got You Under My Skin Irish Lullabye Just a Closer Walk with Thee Kansas City Blues L.O.V.E. Oh Lady Be Good On the Sunny Side of the Street Ring of Fire Summertime Sweet Caroline Sweet Child Of Mine Take it Easy (Eagles) Tennessee Waltz When the Saints Go Marching In You Are My Sunshine
  9. Generation Z is pulling a Z snap on Baby Boomers and in true Generation Z fashion, there’s a meme about it. ‘OK, Boomer’ is popping up everywhere on the Internet as a clap back to all the Boomers’ criticism of the younger generation. The Boomers have been vocal in dismissing Generation Z as a privileged, lazy population with their heads up in the clouds. Accusations of wide spread Peter Pan Syndrome have been popularly noted and expressed from the older generation. Their judgements have not fallen on deaf ears. The response from Generation Z is a message of anger and blame. Gen Z believes the Boomers are out of touch and to blame for the state of an alleged failing economy, environmental protections, political and human equanimity, and so forth. My Opinion I could never promote blame in any way. The only way to move forward is to focus forward. I believe there is many merits to both sides and collaboration would benefit us all. The experience and wisdom of the Boomer generation is something that cannot be devalued. Wisdom must never be ignored for evolution’s sake. The enthusiastic creativity generated by youthful dreaming is of equal value. Two parts that make a beautiful whole. Mother Theresa famously stated that she would never attend an anti-war rally. However, if invited to a peace rally she would attend without hesitations. I believe the path forward is to focus on the solution, as well. For Activity Directors, Inter-generational planning is one of the most important programs we can maintain to keep our residents healthy and full of life. How do we prevent generational divides from affecting our ability to bring people together? Truthfully, we almost have an obligation to at least try. Our place in the facility and the community positions us in one of the prime spots to have a real impact on healing the divide. Ways Forward Focus on Commonality The best place to start in any divide is to first focus on what is in common between the sides. This brings neutrality and a willingness to find friendship, for your purpose of building connections. Gen Z believes Boomers are unwilling to make changes and are stuck in their ways, so to speak. However, Boomers were responsible for the massive social changes that took place in the 60’s and 70’s. One could draw a straight line of positive change from the plight of their cause to the causes taking center stage now. It is all a dream of freedom in one form or another. Humans in general have that in common and it is a good place to start in your planning. What can you plan that would focus on this commonality? Is there a holiday you could utilize to educate on this common thread? Trade Wisdom Create an environment where wisdom is traded and therefore valued. Your facility is stocked with almost all generations. Host workshops where different talents are shared. Younger individuals can teach a short lesson on using technology. Your residents can teach on history, taxes, carving, stamp collecting, etc. Most talents are dictated by the era in which one is raised. Utilize this to bring people together. What’s old is new. Get Real We all have stereo types. We all have judgments. This is a built in system meant to keep us safe and sometimes it goes overboard. This is a fact we shouldn’t work against. The important thing is to end all discussions of conflict with a solution put forward. Have group discussions with your residents about their grievances. Listen to their frustrations about the world as it is now. Of course, it is frustrating to watch the younger generation disappear into a sea of screens. It is equally frustrating to look back and see no action being taken to prevent some of the biggest problems we all now must shoulder. Discuss these things. Read newspaper articles. Talk about this meme. Get real about what is happening. Then talk about solutions and highlight the positive. Talk about what ties us all together. BUY Now! Activity Directors Network was founded in 1996 on the idea that we could help create elderly care that dramatically improved the lives of those we all serve. Activity Directors are the key to creating environments that we ourselves would be excited to live in. We envision facilities that feel like homes, not institutions. Facilities that celebrate our resident’s individuality and allows them to live with dignity, purpose and joy. We believe providing the best education available, with the most talented teachers we can find, is the way to make an impact. Each and every single one of you are the revolution that is changing everything. Thanks for being a part of The Network. Copyright © 2019 Activity Directors Network, LLC All rights reserved. http://ActivityDirector.org 1.888.238.0444 Our mailing address is: 2010 Hwy 190 W #120 Livingston Texas 77351
  10. M. Celeste Chase, AC-BC, ACC, CDP 10yr Instructor for the Activity Directors Network has written a guideline to help you with your Men residents. Men have always been a topic of discussion when it comes to planning Activities. Read through this guide and let us know what your best success with Mens Activities are..... Activities for Men . . . . January 08, 2019 While walking through most Long Term Care facilities you will easily take note that the ratio of female versus male residents is significantly tipped towards the female population. Women residents outnumber men at the rate of about 2 to 1 (partly due to the fact women live longer than men). Contributing factors that tip the scale further is that it is not uncommon to find that approximately 80% of the staff is also female and the majority of visitors in general are female as well. Men are simply outnumbered in Long Term Care facilities. ref: http://digg.com/2017/sex-ratio-america-map “this map of America shows the male/female sex ratio for all the states and counties — It's worth noting that, at a glance, the most populous counties in America seem to tilt towards female”. Upon further glance it may appear that a vast number of activity calendars have more programs geared for women than men. Activity calendars often do reflect a variety of feminine-based domestic activities such as cooking, baking or “unisex” geared activities. One might speculate that Activity Directors focus on meeting the needs of the majority (female) residents but it is more the case of how much more challenging it is to create male oriented programs than it is for the female persuasion. Consider some of the following factors that contribute to the increased challenge in planning for men’s activities. Of the less than 30% of male residents in Long Term Care facilities, approximately 1/3 of the population present with less ability to communicate than women due to their respective medical or mental status. Some men suffer from strong fear of failure; particularly relating to starting a new skill in which they may appear incompetent to others. Men of past generations may feel embarrassed or self consciousness relating to their particular disability and how it may cause unsuccessful outcomes. Career responsibilities that have long since pasted may leave a sense of loss or void that may damage self-esteem, and instill feelings of uselessness. All of the above are useful information when planning for men’s activities but are only a fraction of the possible scenarios that today’s Activity Director needs to consider while planning for a balanced and purposeful activity calendar. Additionally, there are lifestyle differences that contribute to men’s personal attitudes regarding leisure pursuits between white collars versus blue collar workers. White collar workers engaged in less physical job related labor, shorter work d hours and benefited from higher paying salaries than blue collar laborers. Thus, white collar workers were more likely to feel more energetic, have additional time in the day for leisure choices and possessed the financial means that allowed him to select from a range of interests and pursuits. Below are some considerations that may help you to best identify how to plan for men’s activities, specific to Blue Collar Workers. Men put in exhaustive long hours and often were left with little or no time for leisure pursuits thus they tend to be lacking in leisure related skills. What little available free time in any given day was spent with family members, particularly with their children. Minimal earnings did not allow for financial means to spend on leisure activities. Starting Point – the assessment /gender reviewed Most likely you already have a standardized assessment form. Take some time to review your assessment form and activity check sheet and take note of the types of activities that may be more specific to male residents. You can create a framework of questions that will help you probe for more details regarding his preferences. As you check those areas of interest expressed by your resident make it your mission to elicit and document more information describing what makes his specific selection particularly appealing. Example - Resident selects Sailing: Questions to ask: Can you describe what your sailboat looked like? Where is your favorite sailing destination? What time of day do you like go sailing? Who do you like to be with when you go sailing? How often did you go sailing? How do you take care of your sailboat? Your resident’s answers can be used to engage him in a conversation at a later time about this past time experience and will aide in re-affirming a particularly meaningful memory. Men of this generation often thoroughly enjoy exchanging stories of past days of glory, sports or children and grandchildren’s accomplishments. Look within your male population to group residents with common denominators that you can foster in friendship and mutual camaraderie. Once you incorporate your residents’ noted interest in the activity calendar and highlight care plan objectives you are well on your way to providing for the needs and interests of your resident as a unique individual within the facility community - thereby meeting federal laws for nursing homes. Men might be the minority in this club but given the opportunity, appropriate resources and a through comprehensive assessment, men may not only be able to participate but contribute greatly by adding to the overall program enrichment through a well balanced activity calendar schedule. NOTE: Although the Activity Director professional who will focus on planning these activities keep in mind that the ALL staff members are charged with ensuring that the needs and interests of each individual is met to attain or maintain the highest practical physical, mental, and psychosocial quality of life possible. Such programs are essential to the health and well being of all men and women living in Long Term Care facilities today. Below are a number of ideas for your consideration but remember, that you’re objective is to find a “match” between your resident’s needs and interests to the many potential ideas you come across. Train Hobby Club – The collection for the train hobbyist is numerous, everything from the train itself to the landscape and surrounding villages will keep your resident busy. Look for a location in the facility where you can leave the train convoy permanently set up for residents to watch throughout the day. Men’s Choral Group – Rehearse all time men’s favorite songs to musical accompaniment or a Capella style. Let your residents listen to past male entertainment groups (Miracles, The Four Tops, The Platters, etc.) Car Talk – Collect car magazines and new car brochures and solicit a discussion about new cars vs. the old cars, foreign vs. domestic, manual vs. automatic transmission, 2-door, 4-door, convertibles, etc. Car Wash – A simple hose, bucket, soap, sponges, and towels is all that’s needed. Solicit facility staff members to volunteer their car for washing. Each resident may choose whether to wash, rinse, dry, or just watch the scrubbing and polishing busy work. Rope Tying – Former professionals and wanna-be ship mates will enjoy trying and re-trying various rope techniques to get it right - while sharing sea worthy tales. If there is no sea captain in the crowd just purchase the many rope tying teaching books out there and dawn your sailor hat to get the ship moving. Santas Workshop – Doll houses, airplanes, train kits, bird house, mailboxes etc., make for a super great Santa Shop assembly line. Finished product can be donated to non-profit organizations such as Toys for Tots during the holidays. Your men will love knowing how meaningful their labor of love will be to a child. Sports Time – Watching a live or a pre-recorded horse race, ballgame, boxing match on a big-screen will get the crowd in the mood. Set out peanuts, popcorn, and pretzels. Serve non-alcoholic beer and soda. NOTE: keep in mind any issue with potential chocking risk/consult with nursing. Competitors Club – Horseshoes, bean bag tosses, badminton, and bocce ball, balloon toss are fun games that involve a lot of movement while encouraging interaction, socialization, and teamwork. At the Movies – Ask the residents to select a film (a western, war movie, or mystery). Schedule a matinee or an evening showing. Supply hot-buttered popcorn, movie-style candy, and soda (if permissible- relating to potential chocking/consult with nursing). NOTE: War movies may be triggering for some residents. Be sure to vet your residents for potential behavior relating to aggression that may be triggered from viewing war movies. Honoring Veterans – Military veterans are often eager to exchange stories about the war days as a way to bond and honor veterans and the past memories. Create a list of “military positions” held by your resident and post in an easily visible location to honor their service. Casino Night – Organize a game of dominoes, checkers, chess, or a card game (poker or Blackjack). Be sure to decorate with all the ambiance and glitz and glamour to set the tone. Arches ranging from roulette wheel to gleaming gold circle to let the residents make an entrance. Tool Bits – Provide a variety of different sized nuts, bolts, and washers and a few empty containers. Either direct the person to sort the items or assemble the items and start up a conversation and provide pictures about what each item might be used to make. NOTE: Be aware if there is any evidence whereas you believe that your resident may want to ingest non-consumable items. Trade Show – Journey out to a local hardware store, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. Make a project list and ask the men to find the supplies to complete the job. Many men enjoy discovering new tools and many will spend countless hours at a hardware or home-improvement center. Shoe Shine – Contac a local shoe shop to enlist the tradesman to come to the facility to show off his craft to the men of the house. Your residents can wear their Sunday best shoes for this shoe renovation. Offer newspapers, magazines, books for reading while resident shoes get a new lease on life. The smell of shoe polish may evoke memories and provide opportunities to reminisce. Card or Coin Collection Club – Many men collected and traded baseball cards or coins when they were young. Gather a collection of baseball cards or coins and set up a sorting/organizing station. Obtain detailed information about the items to share with the residents. Encourage the men to talk about their baseball or coin favorites and share how they acquired their treasures. Career Day – Gather a collection of photographs with a focus on jobs, occupations, and careers. (Also consider: colleges, military service, sports activities, clubs or organizations, hobbies or leisure activities.) Encourage the person to discuss the photographs and their past employment. Pass around various hats representing different careers and ask residents to talk about which occupation they think the hat belongs to. Share information about each career such as, educational requirements and potential earnings. M. Celeste Chase, AC-BC, ACC, CDP Activity Directors Network - MEPAP 1&2 Begins the 1st Tuesday of every month. ActivityDirector.org 1.888.ADU.0444
  11. Hi fellow AP/BC's .. I found these CEUs on APNCC.org If you live in Washington, Ohio or Wisconsin here are some face to face CEUs for your Board Certification. Need continuing Education? The following educational opportunities are pre-approved by the Credentialing Center. We are happy to list any pre-approved education. Learn how to gain pre-approval for your event on our Pre-Approval tab. September 19th-21st Wisconsin Representatives of Activity Professionals Annual Conference Marshfield WI 13.5 Credit Hours www.wrap-wi.org September 26th-28th Washington State Association of Activity Professionals Annual Conference Bellingham WA 17 Credit Hours www.wsaaptoday.org October 24th-26th RAP Ohio Annual Confernce Columbus Ohio 22 Credit Hours www.rapohio.org
×
  • Create New...