Assisted living communities offer a variety of formal and informal activities to residents. Most states mandate activity programs. Most communities employee activity directors who create social, educational and physical programs for residents to enjoy. The 2008 book "The Assisted Living Residence: A Vision for the Future" reports residents with higher cognitive impairment have higher involvement in assisted living communities than in nursing homes. Activities are positive experiences with the focus on what each person is able to successfully accomplish. Look for a daily activity calendar when visiting a community to learn more about its recreational program.
Outings
Outings for assisted living residents do not have be extravagant events. A quick visit to a local bakery for a cup of coffee or to the local library for a lecture make for simple, enjoyable events. Ensure enough outings are scheduled so all residents have the opportunity to participate. Residents may enjoy visiting a local botanical center or park. Instead of focusing on walking, bring blankets and plenty of seating for residents to relax and enjoy the outdoor areas.
Life Skills
Have residents feel useful and increase self esteem by establishing life skill opportunities in the assisted living community. Reestablish regular routines residents once held in their own homes suggests website Agingcare.com. Ask residents to participate in setting the table for dinner, polishing silverware or sorting laundry. Residents can assist with household chores such as vacuuming, sweeping and dusting. Gardening and hanging laundry on a clothesline allow residents to work outdoors. If the community has pets ask residents to walk, brush or feed animals.
Cooking and Conversation
Have residents participate in a cooking class. Ask staff from the dietary department to assist with the activity. Easy-to-follow recipes include fruit salads, cookies or other desserts. Have all residents participate in making the recipe and sampling different varieties. Discuss different cooking topics. Ask residents for advice on cooking staple items such as a Thanksgiving dinner or their favorite recipe. Reminisce about favorite foods made in the past.
References
- Aging Care: My Elderly Parent Has Dementia: What Activities Can We Do Together?
- "The Assisted Living Residence: A Vision for the Future"; Stephen M. Golant, Joan Hyde; 2008.
