Posted by Doris (65.136.136.211) on January 04, 2004 at 17:43:32:
In Reply to: Re: dimentia unit posted by Patty on December 17, 2003 at 18:43:12:
: : I am pretty new to this profession and have come into a facility that is pretty new also. They have almost no supplies - especially for the dimentia unit. I have just hired an aide to help out with recreation on that floor and would like to get some ideas as to supplies and activities that really work for your dimentia units. So far I have only ordered puzzles and some balls, tic tac toe game. Please help me. Any input would be helpful! Thanks!
: Folks with dementia may forget alot of things but they don't usually forget life skills. Things such as folding laundry, food preparation. You could let them cut up veggies, tear lettuce for a salad, cut fruit for fruit salad. I know there are infection control issues so either have them wear gloves or just don't serve the food.
: They could wash/dry dishes. Some facilities even have clothes lines and have their Residents hang clothes. Make bread dough and have them help you knead it. I have worked with alot of demented folks who don't want to "dirty their hands" with glue or paint but there not afraid to get in there and touch food.
: Setting the table is another thing. Sing alongs are great.
: Coffee time is another one of our Residents favorite things. Just set out a plate of cookies and serve coffee and cocoa and visit.
: Tell jokes!
: Hope these ideas are helpful. I think we expect too much from our demented Residents. Help them be successful by doing things they know how to do!
I purchased a bucket of assorted foam cutouts at Wal- marts.The clients enjoy sorting the colors and shapes.Will keep them busy for-ever.
When they are finished just put them back in the bucket for the next session.Of course it makes them feel productive if they get a lot of praise and thanks for their help. Hope this helps.