So here we are again at the start of a brand New Year. We all fall into the trap of wanting to make change happen, we set our intention and then we don't follow through or people sabotage our good intentions by either poking holes in them, dream stealing them or we give up before we start.
So here is my advice for you, this year I want you to make sure you factor you in the world of the AC bubble.
Make sure as you plan for the year that you have included enough time for you to plan, create and activate your activity sessions well.
Plan
Plan what you want to change, look objectively to see what you can do differently. See if there are other things you can now try with your residents that was on the back burner before, don't be so dismissive at least try stuff.
Take into account all the traditional themes and customs that the generation of people you work with would of celebrated when they were younger. Remember when you are planning don't be blindsided by what you want but it's what your residents want.
I have created some useful tools for AC's I have a year wall planner available which lists all the main events of the year and international dates, so that's a great tool for you to use. Email me at lovejoycentre@gmail.com for more information which I will send to you, they will be available in the first week of January 2016.
Think about what you want to achieve for your residents as a group for example, you should want to increase their self esteem, promote their independence, etc. So when you plan don't just think it's about booking this and that look at the whole picture from a person centered viewpoint
Create AC's are naturally creative and very resourceful beings, it's a case of having to be at times. When you create your activity schedule include your residents, get their input, discuss ideas with them, include them in planning sessions . You would be so surprised at what they can contribute. By doing this as good practice exercise you will also be fulfilling a lot of what CQC look for when they inspect homes. So make sure you document these meeting and planning sessions.
It ticks so many boxes on so many levels for you and your residents. Once again try something, if it is not theasible be creative and make it feasible. Here is a lovely story I heard of what one home's AC did for her resident. Joan was going to turn 100 years old and her birthday wish was she wanted to have a ride in a hot air balloon and travel over her beloved Cardiff.
So This AC created a basket similar to a hot air balloon one, that she put around Joan's wheel chair then she created a huge balloon from the wall and on Joan's birthday she put her into the balloon creation and at the same time from a projector showed Cardiff as if you were looking at it from a hot air balloon's view. There was not a dry eye in the house and Joan was delighted and felt fulfilled.
It is just thinking outside the box. Give it a try.
Now you have planned, created it is time to activate. Get your well planned ideas into fruition.
I know a lot of AC's have to raise funds for their residents so think of ways that you can do that different. Have you ever just asked the owners to give a budget?
They should really. If not get ideas on internet for low budget activities and approach charities , dance schools, local secondary schools who can come in for free to provide entertainment for your residents. Ask companies to donate to you and your care home. I have at Lovejoy Centre on numerous occasions given away activity products to homes so at least their AC's have something.
Put your hard work together and see your planned sessions flourish, always have a contingency plan incase something happens.
If you have a plan you will always succeed.
I wish you a very pleasant New Year as we go full steam ahead into 2016 and am always here to support you. I have created an online academy for AC's worldwide called AC Tastic Academy which will be launched in January 2016. I will post more information in the next few weeks so you can sign up.
Until next time.
Keep shining brightly and by the way thank you for being you and doing such a brilliant job.
Love,
Ann Marie x
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