heavenstar 0 Report Share Posted November 16, 2011 I have an idea, but would like feedback from you all. I would like to start my own part time business being a Mobil Activity Director. I would go to different facilities (once, once a month, or once a week) and do an activity with the residents that they currently don't have access to. For example, fused glass jewelry or fused glass art, computer classes, ipad classes, Wii Fit or Wii Bowling, sewing, scrapbooking, etc. I have all of the materials and could do them on a 1:1 or group. I think it would help the AD in that they won't have to learn a new technique, they won't have to buy the materials-- or need the room to store them. AD's already don't have the time to do "one more thing" but it would give them more activities in the evening or on weekends-- I could even write the progress notes for you. I have no idea what to charge-- on top of the materials cost. I know it has to be affordable because we all use every cent in our budget, but I need to make some extra money too. But is this something you would be interested in? Is it worth me pursuing? Let me hear your thoughts, and be honest! Thanks Angie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
aRBeRec 0 Report Share Posted November 16, 2011 Well I think you would need to offer specific programs or activities, there are music & art therapists that travel to different facilities and I know it is not easy for them to get booked so if you're certified for something specific that may help. The only outside activities I've ever used are entertainers and a horticulture therapist (because I kill plants). I find that most other "activity vendors" aren't worth the expense since I am already paying my staff to do them. I don't want to rain on your parade, just think you need to find a special niche. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
heavenstar 0 Author Report Share Posted November 17, 2011 You're not raining on my parade. I have no idea what's out there and if it is even worth pursuing. I have been asked to do fused glass for others-- friends and children of some of our residents and I thought it would be a good idea to bring it to other groups especially since it is so expensive to start up. Thank you for being honest! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
themusiclady 1 Report Share Posted November 20, 2011 If the goal of activities is for the seniors to have 'meaningful experiences' you could trade on that: create a range of unique things to do which as you say might be beyond organising otherwise. Example, making a recording of reminiscence/interview/the person singing etc then providing an edited CD for the facility or family. If you're doing something like jewellry-making you'd have to price up what's needed for each resident, say a kit, how many you'll have in the group then your price will need to reflect that cost, travel cost and taxes against whatever you think is appropriate profit for the time. You will only be able to do 2 or 3 groups in a day- most places schedule an activity mid-morning or mid-afternoon, a few for early evening - so price will need to reflect the limited number of hours you can work to make a wage. Examples of activities I've seen that people take around to senior communities: mobile casino, Tai Chi, oil painting, Viktrola & old recordings, old west storyteller, tea party, birds and animals. The ADs will be looking for good performance and engagement skills, consistency, affordable programs. Someone the seniors look forward to coming who brightens up the day and brings energy and enthusiasm. 'Someone who can easily keep people happy and busy for an hour' is how one AD puts it. She catches up on paperwork to one side during that hour.... Good luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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