One holiday that will surely put a smile on your face in a Skilled Nursing home is Valentines Day. Even though it can be bittersweet for most as they have lost their significant others years ago, or are also in a facility.
Like back in High School
Hopefully there is a good activity department at the facility. I have been lucky enough to have some really good ones. Every year, where I work, we have a big party for Valentines Day. They even have a voting for King and Queen. What a great experience seeing our residents enjoy themselves with this. They love the contest and cheering on. As a therapist you can even make it functional Therapy and join in the fun as they walk in to and around the party. Even those with dementia act like teenagers again as it stimulates long term memories.
It is also another good time for families to come in and visit……and they always bring treats.
A Great opening to get someone to open up
We need to take advantage of the opportunity to use the days activities to try and establish a better connection with the residents we are working with. It can make it easier to get someone new or difficult to open up. You never know if that could be the spark that makes the difference. Worst case there is always chocolate!
