Due to the coronavirus, the closings of public activities and the recommended social distancing that is in effect, our population have limited activities to participate with, out in the community.
Not only does this take a toll on our clients, but also us caregivers. There are activities for everyone to participate with, if given a choice.
If safe to do so, go to a local store or order online seeds and dirt to grow for May depending on your season for planting. This is a daily activity that anyone can participate with and promote purpose.
Schedule movie day/night. If no opportunity to rent or bring in a movie, there are other ways to be accommodate. Most of the TV’s now have HDMI capabilities. This means that if someone is willing to use their data on a cellphone, you can hook up to a laptop with an HDMI cable. Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ or any other movie app can be viewed on a TV through a laptop. Give clients a list of movies to see what choices are available. If you have a hard crowd, draw the movie out of a bowl. Perhaps pick the night before and have the client participate in the planning of activity.
Make it fun with out of the ordinary snacks if available, special lunch/dinner or beverages.
Arts & Craft Day - Take a poll of who likes to do what. Reach out to close Directors and see what supplies are needed or what staff may have to donate. For example:
I had back surgery in January. To prepare myself for imminent boredom, I purchased a load of art supplies, which I never opened. I have canvases, watercolor tablets, drawing pencils, brushes and more. If you look online there are also websites with free color pages that you can think outside of the box to make it a fun and different art or craft idea. See who has what, the willingness to share and participate or reach out to other houses nearby.
Another way to make things fun is to have daily celebrations listed on the calendar. For Example:
April 1st, 2020 is National Move More Day
April 2nd, 2020 is National Peanut Butter and Jelly day.
There are events listed daily. Either follow the calendar or make up your own event!
Check this webpage for events and ideas. Each staff/client can participate. I know some of our population may not like a certain event, but if we make it fun, they may see that and join in!
If ideas are needed reach out to other Directors to get ideas and possible activities. Most importantly, THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX. Tough times are a head. Try to make it fun as much as you can!
As always, make time for self-care! If we don’t care for ourselves during this time, how are we able to care for others.