Activities

This page talks about the benefits of a constructive activities programme for the elderly and is aimed at carers.

Group Activities

Whilst treating people as members of a group may not e concentrating fully on the individual requirements, there are several important advantages. Members of a group with similar problems are often encouraged by having the opportunity to share their life's experience, knowledge and general views and opinions with their peers and carers.

Group activities can be divided into four main types - orientation, education, social and physical. When planning activities, the individual needs of each client should be taken into account, to provide the needs of the majority.

Orientation

Quizzes of all varieties and levels can be used to assist long/short term memory. Most information is taken in through sight, rather than the spoken word, therefore quizzes using picture-music, tactile, small/taste are used. Newspapers and magazines are ideal as they could lead to discussions on current affairs. Calendars and clocks should always be large, helping the client to be more responsible for keeping them up to date.

Education

Do not try to teach old dogs new tricks, try to stimulate interest and update old skills. Talks and demonstrations should be on subject relevant to the group, they should be short with visual aids and audience participation should be encouraged.

Social Activities

Communication skills should be encouraged, such an naming fellow clients passing and naming objects, music appreciation, singing and reciting poems. Relaxation will help sleep, reduce pain and aid mobility. Music, movement and relaxation exercises should be included. Constructive use of leisure time, do not stick to Bingo and Beetle drive sessions, imagine yourself as being elderly, would you want to play bingo everyday? Indoors gardening where possible can be beneficial. Table games one to one dominoes or chess are very useful for the more reluctant client.

Physical Activities

Sessions of physical activities not only encourages muscle strength and joint mobility but also aids circulation, digestion and appetite, respiration, relaxation and sleep. Exercise sessions can help to break the vicious circle of inactivity.

Inactivity = Stiffness = Loss of appetite and sleep = Tiredness and apathy = Inactivity

We must remember that out of a twenty-four hour day the majority of it for the elderly in residential care is sitting with nothing to do. Therefore a constructive activity programme is important for the well being of the client. Happy, contented clients make happy contended carers. One important thing to remember before embarking on any programme is to know your clients individual needs.