During my course of work as a freelance AC I have noticed it is the little things, that matter most of all.
I want to encourage you that those simple everyday things do matter, in fact they matter a lot and make a lot of difference.
We can get so carried away worrying about arranging activities, getting the schedule done, booking someone, doing this and that and the simple things get left on the side lines and it those things that make the biggest difference at times.
The Little Things List............
Keeping Your Word- If you say you are going to do something for someone keep your word . It means the world to your residents. You are their link to the outside world and they rely on you.
Addressing Someone By Their Name- Use the Elderly person's name every time you speak with them in a conversation. Try to remember that person’s name so that they can feel important and loved.
By always using someone's name it validates them, makes them feel normal and they will engage with you straight away.
Do Actually Listen- Actually take the time to listen to what is being said, allow the person speaking to finish and then respond. I know it sounds so simple but believe me I do see it a lot when a resident is talking and a staff member will cut right across them. This will make the person feel inhibited and cause them to recoil into themselves.
Set Them Up To Succeed-Give them a small task that they are able to complete. Even something as basic as folding the flannels or the towels make them feel important.
Give Them Choice- Ask them what they used to like doing. Did they like gardening? Or painting? Or maybe sewing. Set up activities that the person is able to take part in and enjoy. You will soon see their self esteem boosted.
Be Caring- Show the person you care about their thoughts, opinions and their history. Get involved in their earlier life and share their memories. If they have photos of their life then ask if you can sit and look through the photos together.
Time- Allow enough time to spend with them. Even if you have to book it in the diary in advance to allocate time for them to do whatever the activity is they want to do.
Respect- Being courteous, saying please and thank you mean so much.
Smile- A smile speaks a thousands words without being spoken. When you smile you are acknowledging someone and drawing them in and giving them your positive energy.
Special Days- remembering birthdays, anniversaries , special days that mean so much are important. Just acknowledging them will make a difference in a big way to your residents.
I have really seen this fact lately, that it is the little things that mean the most to people, it is not about cost or how much something is worth. They would rather have your time and companionship.
Online FB Group Support
I hear all too often the AC role is isolating so I have built up an online community to help support other AC's worldwide in our little hub.Lots of special promotions, free giveaways and a great resource of files on activities is available to all members free.
You can join the group here -.https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovejoycentregroup
I also do a monthly newsletter you can sign up here and get my free eBook-
To get your free copy of our ebook: "10 Top Tips for Engaging and Stimulating Activities With The Elderly"
Please click below:http://eepurl.com/Iw9p1
Wishing you all well and until next time keep shining.
Love,
Ann Marie xxx
