You’re always on the lookout for fresh ideas and resources to keep your residents engaged and stimulated. While there are endless online resources available, one often overlooked but incredibly valuable asset is your local library.
Libraries are more than just a place for books, they’re also community hubs with a wealth of resources that can bring a new dimension to your activity plans.
Books have a timeless appeal, and your local library will offer a broad selection of genres. Whether your residents enjoy historical fiction, biographies, or lighthearted novels, there’s something for everyone. Large-print books and audiobooks are perfect for those with visual impairments, ensuring everyone can participate.
Organise a visit to the library for small groups of residents on a regular basis. Get to know more about the books that interest them. You'll learn a lot more that if you are asking them about their favourite books over a cuppa.
Many libraries host regular events such as talks, craft workshops, or local history discussions. These can be great opportunities to bring residents out on a small trip, providing a change of environment and the chance to mingle with the wider community. Encourage residents to take a look at the library's notice board, during your visit, to see what is being offered.
Librarians are often passionate about supporting their local communities and would likely be excited to work with you to create tailored resources or activities for your residents. Invite a librarian to host a reading sessions in your care home.
Find out if you could work with them to set up a mini-library within your home, with rotating collections of books, magazines, and newspapers to suit the tastes of your residents.
Your library is a fantastic resource for local history, which can be particularly useful for memory care activities. Borrowing books or materials on the history of your town or region can open the door to fascinating reminiscence sessions, where residents share their own memories of days gone by.
Ask if your library lends out Reminiscence Boxes, filled with items from different decades designed to stimulate conversations and memories for older adults, particularly those with dementia.
Check for audio books and DVDs for loan, these can be super helpful for your regular film club.
Libraries can inspire creative sessions too. They usually have a vast selection of craft books that can provide you with new ideas for seasonal or themed activities.
Look for mindfulness books which could inspire care home activities like colouring, knitting, or poetry writing, perfect for those who enjoy quieter pastimes.
For some ideas of books to ask for at your local library, look through some of my past blog posts in the Favourite Things section, where I have published some great book reviews.
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