Activities for Assisted Living or Personal Care Residents
Activities for residents of assisted living centers and personal care facilities are usually planned by the center's activities director. Generally, activities will be planned to accommodate the varied interests of the residents of the facilities, as well as their varied physical abilities. Group activities that most, if not all, of the residents can partake in are popular in these types of facilities.
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Games
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Some residents may prefer board games such as Monopoly and Scrabble while others may enjoy card games like gin rummy. In addition to card and board games, residents might enjoy a round of trivia or even Charades. Games are a good way of fostering one-on-one relationships, which can help retain social skills and improve mental health.
Exercise
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Low impact, minimal stress exercises are a good choice. These can include arm lifts, leg lifts, or simple stretches. Regular exercise reduces the risk of common ailments associated with advanced age such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and also improves cognitive function.
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Music Events
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These events may include scheduled performers, a talent show starring resident singers, or a singalong around a piano. Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have found that music has beneficial effects on the body's vascular system.
Crafts
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Crafting is a therapeutic activity, but it also provides other benefits for those who engage in it. Crafting can help spark creativity, which improves mental health, as well as improve and maintain fine motor skills due to the repetitive motion involved.
Social Events
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Birthday parties and holiday celebrations, as well as dances, are good ways for residents of assisted living centers to socialize. Social interaction in the elderly is important because it can help stave off feelings of isolation, which can lead to depression.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jon Rawlinson
