Research has shown that positive and vibrant retirement communities help improve the Quality of Life (QoL) and increase the life span of older residents.
The larger point of debate is, how well are the Care Homes staff trained and equipped to take care of the Social, Recreational, Intellectual and Emotional Care needs of residents?
Unfortunately most Care Homes in India including private operators offer only basic boarding and lodging and offer very limited options for intellectual engagement.
The days of residents entertainment such as reading newspapers, playing carroms or enjoying watching the traffic on the roads have become archaic, now the seniors want more juice for the money they spend.
Intellectually stimulating activities not only helps those residents whose grey cells are still active but also helps those who have Dementia / Alzheimer’s. However the question is, are the Care Homes really bothered to offer these important activities or are simply happy to keep a resident in one corner of the room?
To help the larger cause, the attached document “Living well through activity in care homes: the toolkit” is being shared. The toolkit has been prepared by professionals and is a very comprehensive guide.
The toolkit has been published by College of Occupational Therapists Limited, UK.
This toolkit has been designed to equip care homes with ideas and materials in order for them to provide a service focused on residents’ needs, preferences and activity choices.
Throughout this toolkit, where it is recommended that specialist occupational therapy advice is required, this text is highlighted in green. It also links to the College of Occupational Therapists’ website, where there are many resources and further information.
The guide for residents, their family and friends offers advice on best practice in terms of residents’ rights to engage in daily activities that support their health and wellbeing.
Some of the resources covered in this toolkit are:
- Where do I start?
- What is activity and why is it important?
- How do I motivate residents to take part in activities?
- Communication
- Balancing risk and choice
- Occupational therapy leaflets
- How does this toolkit support training?
Document can be downloaded here (Activities for Residents in Elderly Care Homes) or can be read below