Never Too Old to Have Fun

Article submitted by Eve Boasberg Lion, Marketing Specialist for Camellia Adult Day Health Care Center, Greenbriar and Guest House of Slidell, Riverlands, Twin Oaks and Maison Oaks.
For more information, she can be reached at 504-885-5812.

The importance of having fun is a significant aspect emphasized in today's nursing home living. A few activities directors of nursing homes were surveyed in the New Orleans area, and they all stressed the positive impact "just having fun" has on the quality of life of their residents. Prior to moving to a nursing home, many residents were experiencing a very sedentary lifestyle in their own homes - watching a lot of television, not getting any or very many visitors - you get the picture.

Now, they have an exciting social life filled with interesting daily events. The stimulation of having something to look forward to do and people to interact and converse with each day is very positive to their overall well being. There is always the ever-popular bingo, birthday parties and card games on the activity calendar along with events such as balloon volleyball, musical exercise, and sing-a-longs.

Smart activity directors have learned that anything that involves food assures a great turnout. You might find wine and cheese socials, eight-foot long po-boy socials and even senior cooking classes on the schedule. Getting hungry?

Volunteers are encouraged at every nursing home. This is a great way for the community to get involved in the fun. The Guest House of Slidell recently won a state award, the "Distinguished Partners in Education Award." Students from Slidell High School spent a semester visiting with their "adopted" grandparents in a program designed to introduce them to healthcare as a profession. Many area churches also minister to their local nursing homes through weekly visits at coffee socials.

Creating a bond between the caregivers and the residents is critical to everyone's enjoyment. Activity programs such as Kennel Club where employees bring their pets to visit has proved therapeutic for the staff and residents at Twin Oaks Nursing & Convalescent Home in LaPlace.

Visit a nursing home soon. Activity Directors are always looking helpers with creative, fun ideas!