Posted by Kathy (66.153.46.242) on September 23, 2003 at 15:24:46:
In Reply to: Re: Few activities in Alzheimer's section posted by Molly5 on September 20, 2003 at 16:56:42:
Certainly the residents of the entire facility should be offered the opportunity to participate in a "formal" activities program. I would see why the facility does not have adequate staffing for the residents needing activities. However, if the facility does not accept Medicaid and does not participate in the Medicaid program then there are no regulations for that facility concerning staffing.
Interestingly enough companies will hire and pay overtime for nursing staff and not have the minimum wage to pay extra activities staff. (When this would be more cost effective in the long run)
So here is what you can do. You can make an appointment with the Activity Director and offer to find some volunteers for her to train to do activities on that unit. Offer to coordinate a training program along with the Alzheimer Association in your area, a couple of Activities Consultants and sponsor a learning dinner for them. Train the volunteers and keep the program going. Schedule activities in conjunction with the existing program and work along with the Activities Director. Also start a scholarship program for your volunteers to take courses in activities. Do some fundraising to get supplies and materials for the program. Go to the local library and get free supplies.
Schedule the volunteers to supply activities daily for the residents. Also do this to assist the activities director. You may find out that there are only two activities people for the entire facility and that the "concept" of the facility was that the CNA's were suppose to do activities and they are refusing to provide them.
You can channel your frustration into something positive and helpful for the people living their last days there.