As an activity coordinator in a care home, you're constantly juggling the diverse needs of residents, limited resources, and the expectations of management.
So when your manager suddenly asks for "more exciting" activities, it's natural to feel overwhelmed.
But what if you could reframe this demand as an opportunity?
Here's how to keep calm and carry on while meeting this challenge head-on.
First things first: pause and breathe.
You don't want to respond like Mr Bumble faced with Oliver asking for more (unless you're a fabulous singer and you think a rendition of Oliver! might make your manager laugh).
It's easy to spiral into stress when faced with new expectations, but remember that your wellbeing matters too. Take a moment to ground yourself before responding or planning your next steps.
Your manager's request likely comes from a good place - a desire to enhance residents' experiences. It's not a criticism of your current efforts.
"More exciting" can mean different things to different people. What does "exciting" mean to your manager?
Schedule a meeting with your manager to understand their vision.
Are there specific areas they want to focus on?
Are they looking for more physical activities? Creative pursuits? Community engagement?
Is this request coming from resident feedback?
Understanding the motivation behind the request can help you respond more effectively.
Having a clear picture of what your manager is asking for will help you plan future events that fulfill the request.
Before overhauling everything, review your existing activities.
Which activities are most popular?
Where might there be room for improvement?
Where could you potentially add a twist to make things more engaging?
Sometimes, small changes can make a big impact.
Are there any untapped interests among residents?
Remember my H.E.L.P.S. approach:
HISTORIES
EXPERIENCES
LIFESTYLES
PREFERENCES
STRENGTHS
This reflection can help you identify areas for enhancement without overhauling everything.
And perhaps, more importantly, who better to ask about exciting activities than the people participating in them?
Your care home residents are your best resource
Conduct a survey or hold a residents' meeting to gather ideas.
Ask what "exciting" means to them.
Gather ideas for new activities they'd enjoy.
This approach ensures that any changes align with resident preferences.
It not only provides valuable input but also gives residents a sense of ownership over their activity programme.
Brainstorm with other staff members.
Reach out to other activity coordinators in the UK care home sector.
Join online forums or attend local networking events. Sharing ideas and challenges can be both reassuring and inspiring.
Click here to join my my Facebook Group
Consider how technology might enhance your activities. Virtual reality experiences, interactive games, or even simple video calls with interesting speakers can add excitement without breaking the bank.
Consider novel approaches that don't require massive changes.
Challenge yourself to come up with unconventional ideas.
Could you organise a "silent disco" for residents with different music preferences?
How about an indoor "beach day" during winter?
Unusual activities dreamed up through local partnerships (e.g., with schools or community groups)
Remember, "exciting" doesn't have to mean risky or overly complex.
Sometimes the most exciting activities are the unexpected ones.
Use this as an opportunity to enhance your own skills.
Could you take a course in creative arts therapy or learn about new trends in elderly care activities?
Or join a membership for activity coordinators. I have one on the website for £60 a year. There are others available select the one that you think will suit your needs best.
Your professional growth can directly benefit your residents, so speak to your manager about funding these next steps in your CPD (Continuing Professional Development).
Sometimes, managers may not fully understand the complexities of activity planning with care home residents.
Take this opportunity to educate them:
Explain the importance of routine for many residents.
Highlight the cognitive and physical limitations you must consider.
Showcase the benefits of your current activities.
Start small. Choose one or two activities to modify or introduce.
Pilot new ideas before full implementation.
Keep a record of resident engagement and feedback. This will not only help you refine your approach but also demonstrate your proactive response to management's request.
Note: Change doesn't happen overnight.
Celebrate each successful new activity, no matter how small.
Your enthusiasm will be contagious, both to residents and colleagues.
Keep plugging the message that care home activities matter.
By reframing management's demand as an opportunity for growth and innovation, you're not just meeting expectations – you're exceeding them. This approach allows you to take control of the situation, reduce stress, and potentially revolutionise your activity programme in ways that benefit everyone.
As an activity coordinator, you play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for care home residents. Your creativity, empathy, and adaptability are valuable assets.
Embrace this challenge with confidence, and you might just surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
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