Activities; How They Affect Well-Being and Self-Image of Residents in Long Term Care

Identify the wellbeing of residents living in long term care facilities as it relates to activities. The problem is sometimes activities for long term residents does not meet the needs of diverse resident interest and abilities which can be associated with increased risk of depression, decreases the quality of life, increases polypharmacy, and thus decreases their life span. Long term care (LTC) facilities offer limited social activities which limits their participation in occupational roles. Activities such as bingo, ring toss, movies, and other non-interactive games promote lack of socializing among residents. Offering opportunities for the residents to identify a new occupational or social role could have a positive impact on their psychological well-being . Self-image of a resident is often lost when admitted to a LTC facility because their independence is lessened and the staff tend to do most of their daily living skills they were doing on their own. Any time someone loses some of their independence or freedom it is difficult for them to process and accept if they are somewhat cognitive. Residents have difficulty giving up the things they use to do, like bathing, cooking, and laundry. They are at the mercy of the staff and the structured time sheet of when these activities will occur, and by someone else. Baby Boomers are going to need activities that stimulate their minds and give self-worth. Discussion of activities as it relates to wellbeing is the focus of this project.