Caring for the elderly is a commitment that we want to reaffirm, always putting the person at the center of the services we offer. In this task, the work and hospital dedication of our collaborators, who every day share their human and professional quality in our centers, is fundamental.

On this occasion we would like to share with you the testimony of Maria, coordinator of activities at St. Augustine’s, which belongs to the Province of England. In this residence we offer 24-hour residential care to 52 elderly people, some of whom live with dementia or other related illnesses. Let’s read their testimony:

What is your name and what is your role in the Sisters Hospitallers?

My name is Maria and I am an activities coordinator at St. Augustine’s (Addlestone).

How important are recreational and social activities for the elderly in the centers?

They are very important, health is everything as we know and mental health is a key part of health that cannot be forgotten. Recreational and social activities can relieve boredom, improve mental health and help residents cope with the symptoms of dementia. By including activities that keep them moving, keep them thinking and make them smile, their health can improve for longer and slow deterioration.

Can you describe some of the most popular activities among the residents?

The most popular activity I organize is a movie day (of movies they remember from when they were younger) every two weeks, where the entire room is decorated, themed music is played and the residents dress up in themed costumes. I then organize themed games and contests. I find that day triggers the engagement of all the residents, from those with few support needs to those with many, everyone participates.

How do you plan and select activities for seniors?

I look at their needs and abilities. For some, sensory-based activities are appropriate, for others memory-based activities, such as naming a name that interests them and gets them involved, many physical games competitions are ones that engage them and can encourage them. No two groups of residents are the same, so I try to do three activities a day, in addition to individual classes, to ensure maximum participation.

How does the hospitaller charism of the congregation influence the design and implementation of daily activities for the elderly in the centers?

The sisters are always willing to give ideas and help, can help engage more residents at a time, and are never afraid to “look silly,” as that is often what it takes to engage residents.

What impact have you observed on residents’ mental and physical health as a result of these activities?

They seem more cheerful and happy when you walked into the room, as they are looking forward to what activities I am going to organize next. In the physical activities I have noticed that they have improved their confidence and strength in these games. They always ask what the next movie day will be and are looking forward to it.

Can you share any success stories where an activity has had a significant impact on a resident?

In my one-on-one chats with one resident in particular, who I talk to every day I’m on shift, I’ve noticed that when I first went she could get a yes or no answer throughout the conversation, but now, after a few months, she’s able to talk to me in complete sentences throughout the entire conversation. It has been wonderful to see her confidence and vocabulary grow.

What challenges do you face at the center and what tools or resources do you use to overcome them?

Challenges I may face can be reluctance to participate in some activities, so I set up the activities in the center of the space where everyone can see them and get as many as possible to participate (even if there are only 3). I start the activity with them and as the others are having fun I watch them watch, after a few minutes I invite them into the activity again, many times their response changes to they would like to join in, I can get many more residents to participate using this method.

What recommendations would you give to other facilities that want to improve their senior activity programs?

No two centers are the same, every group of residents is different, you have to try and make mistakes with the activities, adapt them to their needs, don’t be afraid to make the activities seem a little ridiculous and don’t be afraid to make a fool of yourself. Give them something to look forward to and divide up the time so they don’t feel trapped in an endless loop of the same thing. Mix things up. Search the Internet for new and interesting ideas. And talk to your residents, they already know what they like if you listen to them; talk to their families too, they know what that person likes or liked, even if they don’t remember it themselves.