About the New Face of Activities ProgramLook out! The baby-boomers are coming…This workshop will be packed full of information to transition activity professionals to a person-centered care approach of planning for people living with dementia now and in the future. The session will include group participation and interaction, time allotted for Q&A, as well as very practical and useful handouts and specific activity suggestions.Topics will include:
Zoe Dearing, an Alzheimer’s Association professional educator, spent 30 years designing and implementing activity programming for people with dementia while training others to do it, too. In the 1990’s (way before it’s time!) she moved a SCU from a medical model to an activity-focused, person-centered care model, so she understands the challenges you face! She will show you that these changes can be made and help you find solutions to have a greater impact on the quality of life of those you passionately serve! Join her for a day of fun and inspiration! What are Activities?Most people with Alzheimer's disease still have the energy and desire to do things but lack the ability to organize, plan, initiate, and successfully complete even simple tasks of daily life. The objective of good activity programming is not only to serve the best interests of the participants but also make activities a rewarding experience for both the person with Alzheimer's and health care professionals. If an activity is to be meaningful, it must have purpose, be voluntary, feel good to the participant, and offer the person with Alzheimer's a reasonable chance of success. Activities can be:A personal encounter — Making eye contact, exchanging greetings, or passing in the hall are important to a resident or program participant only if they are meaningful, supportive, and affirming. Naturally offered by the environment — A gathering of chairs and tables naturally promotes spontaneous interaction between residents and their surroundings. For example, a chair by the window that looks onto a bird feeder encourages bird watching. Daily housekeeping routines — Tasks such as folding laundry, raking, sweeping, dusting, clearing and setting tables, and making beds are good for people with Alzheimer's disease because no new learning is required. These tasks can make the person feel useful and productive. Self-care activities — Dressing, bathing, grooming, and dining can be the most personally meaningful and comforting activities, yet are often the first to be removed from an individual's control upon entering a long-term care facility. These activities help reinforce the individual's identity and sense of autonomy. Planned scheduled events — Planned normally by the activity staff, scheduled activities are often limited by the creativity, experience, abilities, and interest of the participants and staff. Not all programs must be innovative and exciting. There is much value in just enjoying the company of others. Spontaneous activities — Ad hoc activities can be used as a way to divert people with Alzheimer's disease from difficult or potentially dangerous behavior or to diffuse the behavior. For example, an invitation to have a cup of tea may distract a person who is intent on leaving, or a walk through the facility can diffuse anxiety or restlessness. Activities can be planned on a one-on-one basis or as group programs. One-on-one activities, which are useful for participants whose attention is difficult to maintain, provide intimate, private time to build relationships. Group activities promote socialization and a sense of belonging. Activities should be planned to address the needs, history, strengths, and challenges of each individual. Avoid focusing activities that serve the interest of the facility and lose sight of the participant's needs. Class times & locations
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