Our dedicated team of live-in carers truly love getting involved in a wide variety of fun activities with their home care clients, and it was this that inspired our latest blog post. Please read on to find a list of fun and creative activities that can bring fun, joy and a sense of accomplishment to those in our live-in care.
Let’s dive in and explore some wonderful ways to brighten up the day!
About Us: Who We Are At Access Care
We thought we should start by introducing ourselves. We are Access Care, a dedicated live-in care agency with over 30 years experience in the home care business. We believe that exceptional live-in care goes beyond the basics.
Each member of our team is passionate about providing the very best live-in care possible for our home care clients. Whether it's through engaging activities or sincere conversations, our goal is to enhance the everyday experiences of our live-in care clients, ensuring they feel valued and cared for in every aspect of their lives.
Access Care’s Top Creative Activities to do With Your Home Care Clients:
1. Art and Craft Projects
Painting and Drawing
Having a go at painting or drawing can be a really therapeutic activity for home care clients. Not only does it encourage creativity, but it also offers a fantastic avenue for self-expression. Whether it’s using watercolours, markers, or coloured pencils, live-in care clients can create beautiful pieces of art that they can be proud of. Using lots of different materials and encouraging exploration can help live-in care clients discover their unique artistic flair!
Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a fantastic way to reminisce and create something beautiful. You could help your home care client gather photos, mementos, and decorative elements to design a scrapbook together. This activity not only sparks creativity but also encourages storytelling and memory recall, making it a particularly good activity for live-in care clients with dementia.
DIY Crafts
Simple DIY crafts like making greeting cards, decorating picture frames, or creating seasonal decorations can be both fun and rewarding. Choose projects that match your live-in care client's skill level and interests. The sense of accomplishment they will feel upon completing a craft can boost their self-esteem and mood.
An Access Care Guide to Pressing Flowers and Framing Them
Pressing flowers really is a lovely craft that can bring a touch of nature's beauty indoors. This activity is not only relaxing but also gives you a wonderful opportunity to bond with your live-in care client over a shared love for flowers and nature.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you and your live-in care client create stunning framed pressed flowers.
Collecting the Flowers
Start by taking a gentle stroll with your home care client in a garden or park to collect flowers. Choose blooms that are free of dew and fully open. Some great choices for pressing include pansies, daisies, and ferns. This outdoor activity itself can be a lovely way to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, which is beneficial for your home care client’s well-being (as well as your own!).
Pressing the Flowers
Materials Needed: Gather your materials - fresh flowers, blotting paper or parchment paper, a heavy book, and a few additional books or weights.
Preparation: Place the flower between two sheets of blotting paper or parchment paper. This will help absorb moisture and protect the pages of your book.
Pressing: Carefully place the paper-covered flower in the middle of the book. Close the book and add more weight by stacking additional books or weights on top.
Waiting Period: Leave the flower to press for about two to three weeks. Check periodically to ensure they are drying properly without curling.
Framing the Pressed Flowers
Selecting a Frame: Choose a frame that complements the size and type of flowers you’ve pressed. Clear glass frames work particularly well to showcase the delicate details of the flowers.
Arranging the Flowers: Once the flowers are completely dry, gently remove them from the press. Arrange them on a piece of white or coloured paper that fits the frame. Be creative and experiment with different layouts until you’re satisfied.
Securing the Flowers: Use a small amount of glue on the back of each flower to secure them in place. Allow the glue to dry completely before framing.
Framing: Place the arranged flowers into the frame and close it securely.
Displaying the Artwork
Finally, find a special place in your home care client's room or home to display the finished pressed flower artwork. This not only adds a personal touch to the living space with a but also is a lovely reminder of the enjoyable activity you shared. The sense of accomplishment can really help to lift your home care client's spirits.
2. Gardening
Gardening is such a therapeutic activity and one that can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors, depending on your live-in care client's mobility, preferences - and the weather!
Indoor Gardening
For live-in care clients who have limited outdoor access, indoor gardening can be a great alternative. Planting herbs, succulents, or small flowers in pots allows them to experience the joys of nurturing plants without needing a large garden space. Plus, the greenery can brighten up their living environment.
Outdoor Gardening
If your live-in care client enjoys spending time outside, you could both have a go at creating a small garden together. Planting flowers, vegetables, or even maintaining a simple garden plot can be incredibly rewarding. Gardening provides gentle physical exercise, fresh air, and a sense of purpose.
Sensory Gardens
For live-in care clients with dementia, sensory gardens can be particularly beneficial. Try to use plants with different textures, scents, and colours to create a stimulating and calming environment. The sensory experiences can evoke positive emotions and memories.
3. Music and Movement
It is well known that music and movement activities can really help lift a person’s mood, as well as help coordination, and overall mental well-being.
Sing-Alongs
Singing familiar songs together can be a joyful and nostalgic experience. What about creating a playlist of your live-in care client's favourite tunes or explore different genres of music. Singing can also help with cognitive function and emotional connection.
Dancing
Encourage gentle dancing or rhythmic movement to music. Whether it's swaying to a favourite song or attempting simple dance steps, movement can help to boost endorphins and improve balance and coordination. If mobility is an issue for your live-in care client, chair-based dancing can be just as enjoyable.
Musical Instruments
Introduce simple musical instruments like tambourines, maracas, or a keyboard. Even if your live-in care client has no musical background, playing instruments can be a fun and stimulating activity. The act of making music can be really engaging and satisfying.
4. Cooking and Baking
Involving your live-in care client in cooking and baking activities can be both enjoyable and beneficial for their cognitive and sensory stimulation.
Simple Recipes
Choose recipes that match your live-in care client's abilities and preferences. Tasks like measuring ingredients, stirring, and decorating can be adapted to suit their skill level. Baking cookies, making sandwiches, or preparing a salad are great options to start with.
An Access Care Recipe for Apple Pie Recipe
Cooking together can be a fun and comforting activity, especially when it involves a timeless dish like apple pie. Here's a simple recipe that you and your live-in care client can enjoy making together:
Ingredients:
1 package of ready-made pastry (enough for a double crust pie)
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or your favourite variety), peeled, cored, and sliced
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons self raising flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C.
Prepare the Pastry: Roll out one half of the ready-made pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press the pastry into the dish and trim any excess.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie dish. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
Top the Pie: Roll out the second half of the ready-made pastry and place it over the filling. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges together to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Egg Wash: Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg, which will give it a beautiful golden color when baked.
Bake: Place the pie on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the filling to set.
Enjoy a slice of this delicious apple pie together. The aroma of freshly baked pie is sure to create a warm, homely atmosphere and provide a wonderful sensory experience for your live-in care client.
Sensory Experiences
Engage your client's senses by exploring different textures, smells, and tastes in the kitchen. Let them smell fresh herbs, feel the texture of dough, or taste ingredients as you cook together. These sensory experiences can be particularly enriching for clients with dementia.
Meal Planning
Involve your home care client in meal planning by discussing their favourite dishes and creating a weekly menu together. This not only gives them a sense of control but also can help to encourage healthy eating habits and anticipation for upcoming meals.
5. Puzzles and Games
Puzzles and games are excellent for cognitive stimulation and can provide hours of entertainment.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Working on jigsaw puzzles can improve problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. Choose puzzles with larger pieces for live-in care clients with dexterity issues or those in the early stages of dementia. The sense of accomplishment when completing a puzzle can also be very rewarding.
Board Games and Card Games
Classic board games and card games like Scrabble, Uno, or Bingo can be both fun and mentally stimulating. Adapt the rules as needed to ensure your live-in care client can take part comfortably. These games also make for another opportunity for social interaction and bonding.
Brain Teasers
Introduce brain teasers, crossword puzzles, or Sudoku to challenge your live-in care client's cognitive abilities. These games can help maintain mental sharpness and offer a sense of achievement too.
6. Storytelling and Reminiscence
Storytelling and reminiscence activities can help build emotional connection and memory recall, especially for home care clients with dementia.
Life Story Books
Another popular idea amongst our live-in care team is to create a life story book with your live-in care client, documenting their life experiences, achievements, and cherished memories. Use photos, written anecdotes, and other mementos to build a personalised book that they can look through and share with their friends or loved ones.
Reminiscence Therapy
Have a go at reminiscence therapy with your home care client by talking about past events, looking through old photo albums, or listening to music from their youth. This can bring on positive emotions and help your live-in care client feel more connected to their past.
Creative Writing
Encourage your live-in care client to write short stories, poems, or letters. Even if they have no prior writing experience, expressing thoughts and feelings through writing can be therapeutic. Offer prompts or themes to get them started and celebrate their creativity.
7. Physical Activities
Physical activities are essential for maintaining mobility, strength, and overall health.
Gentle Exercises
Incorporate gentle exercises like stretching, yoga, or tai chi into your live-in care clent’s daily routine. These activities can improve flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Adapt the exercises to suit your live-in care client's mobility and fitness level.
Walking
If possible, take regular walks together, whether it's around the neighbourhood, in a local park, or even indoors. Walking provides physical exercise, fresh air, and a change of scenery, all of which can boost mood and energy levels.
Chair Exercises
For live-in care clients with limited mobility, chair exercises can be a great alternative. Simple movements like lifting legs, arm circles, or seated marches can help maintain muscle strength and circulation.
8. Technology and Learning
Embrace technology to connect, learn, and explore new interests with your client.
Video Calls
Stay connected with family and friends through video calls. Platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime allow your live-in care client to see and interact with loved ones, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Online Classes
Explore online classes and workshops that match your live-in care client's interests. From art tutorials to language lessons, there are countless opportunities for lifelong learning available online. Many platforms offer free or low-cost classes that can be accessed from the comfort of home.
Virtual Tours
Take virtual tours of museums, zoos, historical sites, and more. Many institutions offer free virtual tours that provide an immersive experience without the need to travel. This can be a wonderful way to explore new places and learn about different cultures together.
9. Mindfulness and Relaxation
Mindfulness and relaxation activities can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.
Meditation
Introduce your live-in care client to meditation practices. Guided meditations, deep breathing exercises, or simple mindfulness techniques can help them relax and focus on the present moment. There are many apps and online resources available to guide you through these practices.
Aromatherapy
Use essential oils and aromatherapy to create a soothing environment. Scents like lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus can promote relaxation and improve mood. Ensure that any scents used are safe and pleasant for your home care client.
Gentle Touch
Incorporate gentle touch activities like hand massages or foot soaks. These can be deeply relaxing and provide a sense of comfort and care. Use calming lotions or oils and ensure the temperature and pressure are comfortable for your client.
10. Social and Community Engagement
Encourage social interaction and community involvement to foster a sense of belonging and purpose.
Group Activities
If possible, you could have a go at participating in group activities or local clubs that match your live-in care client's interests. This could include book clubs, gardening groups, or hobby classes. Social interaction can boost mood and provide a sense of community.
Volunteer Opportunities
Explore volunteer opportunities that your live-in care client can participate in, either in person or remotely. Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Look for opportunities that match their abilities and interests.
Family Gatherings
Organise family gatherings or small get-togethers with friends and loved ones. Celebrating special occasions, sharing meals, or simply spending time together can strengthen bonds and create cherished memories.
What is Live-in Care?
Live-in care is a comprehensive and personalised service where a professional live-in carer lives in their home care client’s home to provide continuous support and assistance.
This type of care is designed to meet the individual needs of the live-in care client, whether they require help with daily activities, personal care, or companion care.
Unlike traditional care options where people may need to move to a care facility, live-in care allows clients to stay in the comfort and familiarity of their own home while receiving the care they need. This arrangement not only ensures safety and tailored care but also promotes emotional well-being by maintaining a sense of independence and routine.
A skilled live-in carer often becomes a trusted companion, building a meaningful relationship with their home care client and offering peace of mind to the client’s family.
Ways a Live-In Carer Can Support You In Your Own Home
A live-in carer can provide various types of support tailored to the unique needs of each client. Here are some ways they can make a positive impact:
Personal Care
Assistance with Daily Living Activities: Helping with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting to ensure personal hygiene and comfort.
Medication Management: Administering medicines on time and maintaining accurate records.
Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring from bed to chair, and using mobility aids.
Household Tasks
Meal Preparation: Cooking nutritious meals that accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
Housekeeping: Performing light cleaning tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, and laundry to keep the home environment tidy.
Grocery Shopping: Managing grocery lists and purchasing necessary items to ensure a well-stocked kitchen.
Emotional and Social Support
Companion Care: Offering emotional support through conversation and companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness.
Activity Engagement: Participating in hobbies, games, and other recreational activities to keep the client mentally and physically stimulated.
Social Interaction: Organising visits with family and friends, and encouraging participation in social events.
Health and Wellness
Monitoring Health: Keeping track of vital signs and any changes in health status, and communicating concerns to healthcare providers.
Exercise Programs: Leading gentle exercises to maintain or improve physical fitness and flexibility.
Stress Management: Implementing relaxation techniques such as meditation or breathing exercises to help manage stress and anxiety.
Specialised Care
Dementia Care: Providing specialised support for live-in care clients with dementia, including memory care activities and safety measures.
Palliative Care: Offering comfort and support for clients with serious illnesses, focusing on quality of life.
Post-Surgery Care: Assisting with recovery and rehabilitation after surgical procedures.
Administrative Support
Appointment Scheduling: Arranging and attending medical and other important appointments.
Communication Management: Handling phone calls, emails, and correspondence to stay connected with family and medical professionals.
A live-in carer is able to help and support their home care client in so many different ways. They are always adapting to the evolving needs of their client and providing holistic, compassionate care.
Which Activity Will You Choose First?
At Access Care, we believe that creative activities are essential for enhancing the well-being of our live-in care clients. By engaging your clients in meaningful, enjoyable activities, you help them maintain their physical, cognitive, and emotional health.
Remember, the key to successful activities is to consider your live-in care client's interests, abilities, and preferences. Be patient, flexible, and encouraging, and always celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. Together, you can create a positive and enriching environment that promotes well-being and happiness.
If you are interested in joining Access Care as a live-in carer please give us a call on 01624 319 399, or email us at hello@access-care.co.uk, we would love to hear from you!