Hello everyone,
If you’re looking for some new ways to safely engage residents with dementia while still practicing social distancing, we have some ideas for you! The first are from Positive Approach to Care (www.TeepaSnow.com). Attached is a list of 13 Engagement Ideas While Practicing Social Distancing, and we think you’ll discover at least a few things on that list that you haven’t tried before. Of course, we encourage you to try the activities that will get residents active!
Some of our favorites include:
· Shredding old newspapers…it’s like popping bubble wrap!
· Ask those who are able to help clean their room by sweeping, dusting, making the bed
· Hallway yoga—residents sit or stand in their doorways and 1 or 2 staff members lead in easy stretches (we sent a link to some stretching exercises in last week’s tidbit!)
· Traveling carnival games—ring toss, or toss pom poms onto a board that’s covered with double sided sticky tape; travels on a rolling cart while staff keep score of who gets closest to the “bullseye”
And there are many more great activity ideas in the second attached document from “DementiAbility and Behavioral Supports Ontario, which also includes some forms that you may find helpful. For example, one includes a list of many “chores” that can be done by residents, with a place to check which activities they most enjoy and what adaptations may be necessary for them.
Have fun with these, share your activity ideas and photos with us, and have a great week!