| Activities Directors Quarterly ® | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Publications American Journal of Disaster Medicine Opioid Management
Society Journal of Neurodegeneration & Regeneration Activities Directors' Quarterly for Alzheimer's & Other Dementia Patients American Journal of Recreation Therapy |
Winter 2005; pages 4-6 Abstract Activity directors are integral, professional players on the interdisciplinary team of long-term care facilities. They work to improve the quality of life for each resident, while remembering that each is a special, unique individual.
Winter 2005; pages 7-16 Abstract Person-centered care is the prevailing philosophy among dementia care professionals today. Its focus is on the individual with dementia, their preferences, personality traits, hobbies, and history. Caregivers make an effort to know the person as well as they can and adjust the environment and daily activities to meet the needs of that person over a continuum as their condition changes. The goal of this article is to provide a brief outline of the history and relevant texts for person-centered care as well as some suggested methods for implementation.
Winter 2005; pages 23-27 Abstract The Myers Research Institute is currently focusing on both Montessori-based programming and the spaced-retrieval technique. Both of these approaches are centered on the philosophy that individuals with dementia are still able to learn new information, provided that it is presented properly and consistently. It is important to remember that dementia patients always retain some strengths, regardless of their limitations. The key is discovering these strengths and building on them in order to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia.
Winter 2005; pages 28-37 Abstract Complementary therapies, once regarded as unconventional, have entered the mainstream and are regarded as enjoyable, therapeutic activities that enhance traditional treatments and medications. The goal of this article is to provide a brief outline of some of the complementary therapies that have been successfully implemented in dementia care facilities, specifically: color therapy, pet therapy, aromatherapy, massage, Reiki, and reflexology.
Winter 2005; pages 38-40 Abstract Creative use of familiar TV game shows can encourage participation and inject fun into ac- tivities for residents with dementia. With the proper coaching, encouragement, and theatrics, residents can entertain and be entertained. Staff can extemporize and elaborate on their knowledge of their residents and popular culture, adjusting questions and answers to challenge people without frustrating them, thus boosting their self-esteem. Activities Directors Quarterly Spring 2005, Volume 6, Number 2
Spring 2005; pages 4-14 Abstract The purpose of this study is to describe the development and implementation of a walking and flexibility program for older adults with dementia. This exercise program yields outcomes for individuals at all levels of functioning. Previous literature indicates that persons with dementia are capable of engaging in such a program, which has the potential to yield positive physical, affective, and behavioral outcomes. Our program is unique for two reasons: a) it adds a defined flexibility element that is combined with a typical walking program, and b) the way we document the walking component. This article describes our full walking and flexibility program, as well as recommendations and “lessons learned” from our experience in implementing this program.
Spring 2005; pages 15-22 Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether music therapy could engage persons with midstage dementia. A music therapy practitioner determined the level of participant engagement in each of three music activity types— rhythm playing, exercising with music, and singing. Results indicated that activities staff members who had little or no formal music training were able to learn and practice the protocol. The initial assessment of the participants indicated that participation levels were stable over time and across each of the three music activities.
Spring 2005; pages 27-31 Abstract This article examines the use of calming music to decrease agitation in cognitively impaired nursing home residents. Calming music has been shown to be an effective, nonpharmacologic strategy to reduce agitated behavior in persons with dementia.
Spring 2005; pages 32-34 Abstract Making the upcoming summer months pleasurable for Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers can be a challenge. But with a little planning and creativity, it is possible for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia patients to enjoy traveling, walking, and even sports activities.
Spring 2005; pages 35-48 Abstract This article describes the positive effects of therapeutic physical activity/exercise for older adults with dementia. It gives tips for how to develop safe and effective therapeutic exercise programs that include components of resistance, endurance, flexibility, and balance. It also provides practical methods for diminishing barriers to and enhancing motivation for participation in exercise programs. Activities Directors Quarterly Summer 2005, Volume 6, Number 3
Summer 2005; pages 4-8 Abstract Activities play an important role in the lives of persons with dementia. They improve mood, reduce agitation, help maintain physical and cognitive function, and, in some instances, may even prolong life. Although dementia patients may lose their ability to initiate social interaction over time, their need for it is not lost. The Friendship Club and the Chaplain’s Lunch provide opportunities for social interaction among low-functioning individuals in an engaging, pressure-free environment that fosters self-esteem and evokes a sense of belonging.
Summer 2005; pages 9-15 Abstract This article describes a successful daily routine of activities implemented at the residence of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Clarence, New York. The goal of this innovative program is to create a structured environment of enjoyment and activity for residents, which reinforces a sense of security and fulfillment in their daily lives. The program is cost-effective because it relies on the interests and talents of existing staff members and uses inexpensive materials of daily living. This article outlines the daily highlights of the program and makes recommendations for implementing similar programs.
Summer 2005; pages 16-22 Abstract Making chocolate candy is a fun group activity that individuals in various stages of dementia can accomplish, even if they have never made candy before. Making a product that both tastes and looks great will enhance participants’ feelings of self-worth. This article offers a detailed lesson plan with step-by-step instructions on how to melt the chocolate and make a few types of candy. Discussion questions and other activities are also suggested to enhance and supplement this project.
Summer 2005; pages 27-34 Abstract This article describes an ongoing group activity designed to mingle residents from an independent-living facility with those in an assisted-living facility. Individuals in all stages of Alzheimer’s disease and at all functioning levels can participate in this activity, which is designed to increase social interaction and enhance positive affect on both sides. Recommendations for setting up similar programs in other facilities are given.
Summer 2005; pages 35-48 Abstract The purpose of this article is to provide basic guidelines for developing art therapy programs for dementia patients at all functioning levels. The lesson plans are designed for residents with dementia who live in long-term care settings. The main objectives of these programs are to bring participants comfort, enjoyment, and the opportunity to be creative and interactive with others. In addition to supplying guidelines and considerations for developing art therapy programs, this article provides a sample eight-week program with lesson plans of proven activities. Activities Directors Quarterly Fall 2005, Volume 6, Number 4
Fall 2005; pages 4-10 Abstract Activities professionals can ease the emotional pain family members and friends experience when visiting their loved ones with late-stage dementia. This article gives practical ideas and suggestions that activities professionals can use to help families and friends approach visiting from a new perspective, and make it a time of connectedness and personal renewal.
Fall 2005; pages 11-21 Abstract Memory Boxes are powerful activity tools that increase social interaction between staff and residents, stave off boredom, enrich lives, and provide sensory stimulation. This article discusses their development from the beginning stages to their present day use. Recommendations for launching similar Memory Box programs are given, along with suggestions for encouraging their continued utilization, overcoming challenges, and evaluating program success.
Fall 2005; pages 23-23
Fall 2005; pages 27-35 Abstract Music therapy interventions may help individuals with dementia recover their functional abilities and may awaken their expressive potential. This article discusses a music therapy program founded on the National Wellness Institute’s Six Dimensional Wellness model, incorporating rhythm, singing, listening, and movement activities. The program was found to markedly enhance residents’ expressive behavior in facial signs, eye contact, verbal remarks, and body gestures. Implications of the findings are discussed, along with recommendations for future music programming for a dementia clientele.
Fall 2005; pages 36-40 Abstract BINGO is a fun, small group activity that is beneficial and pleasurable for mid- to high-functioning individuals with dementia. This article presents a lesson plan for the activity, complete with therapeutic goals, participant selection, and required equipment. The procedure of the game will help participants recognize their good and bad opinions toward a topic, while providing mental stimulation and helping break up their rigid attitudes.
Fall 2005; pages 41-48 Abstract The Men’s Plaid Flannel Shirt Society is a unique activity program that provides social interaction for members. It gives men the opportunity to celebrate their age and remaining talents while having a grand time. Participation in this group activity helps to reverse the process of withdrawal and isolation associated with dementia, while facilitating emotional expression and engagement. |
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