Abstract

When tasked with providing activities for older people in care homes, it can be difficult to know where to begin. What constitutes an activity? How can you make sure activities are as positive and person-centred as possible? What can you actually do? Written by an experienced activity coordinator, this handbook is an indispensable companion for others in this role.

The author provides useful background information on dementia, the importance of activities and how to get to know residents through life story work. She addresses important practical considerations such as how to assess a resident for suitable activities, activity planning, timetabling, budgeting and money-stretching, as well as more subtle issues such as how to enthuse residents and staff to join in and how to deal with resistance from colleagues. An A-Z of inventive ideas and step-by-step instructions for activities as wide-ranging as arts and crafts, cooking, exercise, gardening, meditation, music, reminiscence, themed days and trips out is also included.

Offering peer-to-peer advice and encouragement as well as a wealth of practical ideas and suggestions, this is essential reading for all those involved in activity planning for older people, including those with dementia, in care homes.

Sarah Crockett has worked in Activities Provision in residential care for over 10 years. She currently works in a County Council Day Centre as a Day Care Officer. In 2008 she reached the finals of Barchester Health Care's Activity Provider of the Year Award, and in 2010 she won the National Association of Providers of Activities for Older People (NAPA) Activity Award. In 2009 she qualified as one of the first dementia link workers (DLW) in the UK. She lives in Gloucestershire, UK.
Covers everything from crafts to gradening, knitting, exercise games and cooking, and is a pick for any working in a care home who wants adult-oriented activities.
Midwest Book Review
Through this book, Sarah is able to effectively blend a working practical knowledge of the experience of the person living with dementia and her own creative process. This blend culminates in a practical, creative, hands-on approach to activity coordination.
Robin Willmott MA, B.Sc., RMN, MBACP, Dementia Education Nurse