Posted by ginger (169.240.225.95) on September 26, 2003 at 10:08:49:
In Reply to: how long have you been in the Activity Profession posted by Martha on September 23, 2003 at 23:18:56:
I've been doing this for 7 1/2 years. I, too, have noticed a change as far as the agess of the folks we serve. It was a little weird going from Lawrence Welk and Mitch Miller to Rock and Roll oldies and Motown! I enjoy being able to relate to the residents that are closer to my age,(38) we certainly have common interests!
I like the changing attitudes towards Act, as well. We desparately need to get away from the medical models, and the sometimes, juvenile approach to act. (A great article on this subject can be found in Oct. Creative Forecasting, by the way.)
It is hard to imagine doing anything else, although I probably don't want to do this forever. I have returned to school to pursue a degree in Liberal Arts for now, until I decide what I want to be when I grow up! I tried Nursing, but discovered that I like providing anything BUT physical care for people.
: Hi all,
: Just strolling down memory lane today. Thinking about all the changes that have happened since I've been in Activities, nearly 20 years. I was courious, how long have any of you been in the Activity profession and what changes, for better or worse, have you seen?
: I think on a positive note, the increased respect for activities, and the certification available to us.
: The negative, is the increase in paper work!! MDS, RAPs, etc. and the time it takes us away from our residents....there's another change, they used to be called "patients" and wear hospital PJ's all day. hardly any of them wore street clothes.
: We had strict visiting hours. Residents were restrained in their chairs, beds, side rails were up on all the beds.
: Love to hear from you all and about your experiences in the field.
: have a great day,
: Martha