News & Views” is a wonderful way to start the morning in memory care. This activity combines current events, social interaction, and mental stimulation, making it perfect for seniors. Held during morning tea shortly after the walking group, this activity sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Setting Up News & Views Activity in Aged Care
Check out our step-by-step guide on how to set up an interactive News & Views in your aged care community. Don’t miss a step and remember the important parts!
1. Setting the Scene
In the activity room, a large calendar displays the month, date, and day prominently on the wall. Each session begins with a simple orientation to the day. For example, I might say, “Today is the 10th of February 2018. It is Tuesday, and it is a beautiful day outside with a forecast of 29 degrees and sunny all day.” This helps ground the residents in the present moment and provides a cheerful start to the discussion.
2. Sharing the News
I scan the morning newspaper for good news stories to share with the group. Given that finding positive news can be challenging, I also look for uplifting stories on the internet or television. Occasionally, I might even create a fictional happy-ending story to share. This ensures that the news shared is positive and engaging, fostering a cheerful atmosphere.
3. Encouraging Participation
I encourage everyone to contribute to the discussion and share their opinions. For example, if I have a story from China, I might ask, “Has anyone ever been to China? What was it like? Did you go and see the Great Wall of China?” These questions help trigger memories and encourage residents to share their experiences.
4. Interactive Discussions
To make the activity more interactive, I might go through the newspaper ads, such as those for cars for sale, and ask residents what they think a new car costs these days. This often leads to interesting conversations about past experiences, such as buying a brand-new car and recalling how much it cost. These discussions are not only engaging but also help stimulate cognitive functions and memory recall.
5. Ending with a Fun Quiz
If time permits, I like to end the activity with a fun quiz. This could be related to the news stories we’ve discussed or general knowledge questions. Quizzes are a great way to engage the residents’ minds and add a playful element to the session.
Key Takeaway
“News & Views” is a beneficial activity for seniors in aged care, especially those in memory care. It combines elements of orientation, social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and fun. By starting the day with positive news and engaging discussions, we create a vibrant and supportive environment for our residents. This activity not only keeps them informed but also provides an opportunity for them to share their thoughts and memories, fostering a sense of community and connection.
