Bringing Activity Alive for dementia, residential care and nursing homes

Introduction on bringing activities alive from the total activity tool kit

The first workbook is designed to introduce the concept that activities are at the heart of our very existence and vital to our health, well being and quality of life.

The written exercises help staff to explore their roles, the importance of routines and the many different types of activities in their own lives as a backdrop to understanding the experiences of people they support and care for.

Before starting the second workbook staff are required to complete designated sections of life history work for one person. It is the responsibility of the manager/supervisor to liaise with the staff member to action this.

A life history template including guidance notes is provided for this on the CD.

The second workbook is designed to provide an understanding of ways of bringing activities into the heart of a care home.
It raises the question of what prevents people joining in group activities and their benefits (well being) and potential negative effects (ill being).  One to one and spontaneous activities are explored alongside the concept of integrating ‘being active’ into daily life, so enriching the life experiences of each person.

The written exercises will help staff to consider the current culture of activity provision within the home and how they can work to enhance this. They are designed to help staff question their work practice and be creative in their approach to building relationships with the people they support.

The final activity requires the staff member to plan, carry out and evaluate a small group, one to one or spontaneous activity centred on the person they completed life history work for. It is the responsibility of the manager/supervisor to liaise with the staff member to action this.

Recording form templates are provided for this on the free resources CD.