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RonHochhauser Asked January 2020

Trying to start a group of interest for Assisted Living Residents as an outside volunteer. Director has been helpful. Any suggestions?

Concerned the Residents will not have any interest. Trivia seems to be a good subject to start with.

RonHochhauser Jan 2020
As a Volunteer, it seems the most important position is being open to any direction needed by the Activities Director of a Facility. Boundaries are important for everyone. There is a great need in the Memory Care area but I asked to share my time with The Assisted Living Residents.

JoAnn29 Jan 2020
Be aware that at least half the residents have some form of Dementia. Because of that, they can't learn. Short term memory doesn't allow for it. If you don't know much about ALZ/Dementia, I would read up.

Doesn't the AL have an activities director. Its usually their job to find ways of entertaining residents. You don't want to step on toes.

My niece was the activity director at Moms AL. She had exercise classes. Mostly sitting down because it was easy for the residents. Of course a monthly birthday party for everyone who had a birthday that month. Theme partys. One was old movies. I made cut out cookies and provided the ingredients to decorate. The residents loved Bingo. They liked music and dancing.

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FloridaDD Jan 2020
I would suggest things which are not timed.  Many seniors may have trouble getting words out quickly, and may get frustrated.  Maybe scrabble.

rocketjcat Jan 2020
That’s lovely for you to volunteer. At Moms NH there was nothing that brought the residents together more than singing. There’s something very therapeutic about remembering old songs together. Even when other memories or abilities fade, it’s amazing how people can still remember words to songs!
Also food...her activity person gave small baking sessions for residents that could participate, where they made simple brownies or cookies to share. Something along that line might be well received.
Prize bingo was also a big hit, where they could choose from a variety of small prizes like box candy, bags of chips, cheap jewelry, if there’s any budget for that. Trivia is a good idea too, but make sure it’s geared to their age group.

NeedHelpWithMom Jan 2020
Can you clarify please. Volunteer for what?

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