The Rec-Quest

Activity Quarterly Progress Notes

2011-07-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

Question:Hi. I have a question that maybe you can answer for me. With MDS 3.0 activities does not do quarterly assessments. Do I need to write a quarterly review? Mine is a page long summary/narrative.

Answer:Every facility is different. There's no federal regulation that says you have to write quarterly activity notes, but I highly recommend it so that you are continuously monitoring the resident's response to activities. But, no. You do not need to do a quarterly assessment-but I do recommend quarterly and episodic notes.

Increasing Membership in An Organization

2011-04-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

Question:
Hi Kim. I met you at the VAAP conference in Northern Va. I was hoping to get your take on ways to increase membership with-in your district and why is it successful. Our meetings are held monthly yet very poorly attended. (5 people at best) The only time that you may see everyone is at a conference. Now I have also joined the our state association and am working with my team to organize an event " A Night Out at our facility (spa evening happy hour) I believe we can turn things around by doing more outreach to start with. I appreciate your website and the ideas that you have. I would like to hear what other professionals think about this. Thank you in advance for reading this.

Answer:
Hi-it's wonderful that you are involved with your local group and trying to better it. Good for you! I love the night out idea-it's great to offer networking and fun opportunities! Do your meetings offer CE's? If not, that would surely increase your membership. I can do webinars for groups such as yours that would be very affordable. Also, try reaching out to the state group. The state group should be supportive of the local groups and offer opportunity to perhaps notify members that your group is available. Our NJAPA website lists all of the local groups. you just have to keep trying. Send out a survey asking what days, times, topics, etc. are of interest to the members and the facilities in your area. You know. a group of 5 can do a lot! At the very least you can be supportive to each other. Don't doubt the power of a small group! You may also want to offer a facilty membership fee in addition to an individual fee, therefore if one person can't make a meeting the facility can send another, plus it's more cost effective for the facility. Another option is to offer a 2 yr membership or even 3 yr membership at a lower price than annual. Have a brainstorming meeting. Don't give up-keep the faith! Best Wishes!

Activity Guidelines in Long Term Care

2011-03-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

Question: Kim, I have a question, if you wouldn’t mind answering for me? CMS Guidelines: 1. Activities may be provide by all facility staff……2. Medication,.therapy, bath/shower schedules are to enhance activity attendance….3. Resident who need assistance are to be transported to and from activities. Does this all remain current? Any changes with this? All facility staff are to be providing meaningful activities and all facility staff are to assist with transportation, Correct? Then, what about documentation of activity attendance? Is it still highly recommended to document, document, document……….Document the activity attended and the response? I would appreciate your response on this

Answer
All of those things you mentioned remained current and are stated in the CMS Guidance to Surveyors for F Tag F tag 248 and F249. I have this on my website if you'd like to download it at http://www.recreativeresources.com/activitylegislativenews.htm
In terms of Activity Attendance. There's no federal mandate that says you have to take attendance, however F tag 248 specifically states that the activity program must be monitored as well as the resident's response to the activity program. It also depends if it is a state reg for you. Some states require attendance. You have to research that for your particular state-but it's not federally mandated. With that being said, I always recommend the facility have an attendance system. If anything, it helps to write more accurate progress notes.

Therapeutic Recreation Week

2011-03-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

Question
Kim, When is Therapeutic Recreation week in July?

Answer
TR week is the 2nd week of July. Here's some great ideas to help you celebrate!
http://www.recreativeresources.com/TherapeuticRecreationWeek.htm

Activity Professionals and Meals

2011-01-30T13:17:00.000-08:00

Question:Kim,
I was wanting to pick your brain about activity professionals assisting during meal times. How common do you find this? What job responsibilities are they usually helping with?

Answer:
It depends on the facility-but more and more it seems that activity professionals are assisting with meals (passing out food, assisting with the set up such as straws, opening up containers, fixing a cup of coffee/tea, etc. Special training should be provided for those assisting with feeding however.

Resident Council Leaders

2011-01-30T13:13:00.000-08:00

Question:
Kim,
I wanted to pick your brain about Residend Council Committee. Our administration is kicking around the idea of electing committee members and a president. Is this common for most places? If there isn't a committee or president, how does the council work? How are members elected if there is a committee and how are meetings ran?

Answer:
I never NOT had a President and VP for the Resident Council. It's very common to do so. At a meeting ask for nominations from the residents. Then put together a mini campaign-nominated residents get to discuss the "issues" and what they could do if they were elected. Then the residents vote for their leaders. Usually positions are for one year but you could do whatever time frame you like.

A great website to check out is
http://www.residentcouncil.org/

Men's Programming

2011-01-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

Question:
Hi I was wondering if you have any suggestions for activities for a mens club. We are a nursing home and have about 7 men and we live in a small town and not many resoures.

Answer:
Re-Creative Resources has a men's programming resources available for free at http://www.recreativeresources.com/programming-mens-activity.htm

In addition we provide a Men's programming webinar filled with activity ideas for men. Learn more about the webinars provided by Re-Creative Resources at:
http://www.recreativeresources.com/webinars.htm

Residential Facility Programming

2011-01-05T08:48:00.000-08:00

Question:
I am now supervising our Life Enrichment Coordinator for our residential living residents (those who live independently) at our continuing care retirement community. I'm looking for some programs that would address this area of responsibility and most of what I'm seeing is for skilled nursing facilities. Any thoughts you have or direction for me would be greatly appreciated!

Answer:
A lot of the activities we do in skilled nursing is applicable to assisted living and residential facilities-it's just a matter of adapting (making the activities more challenging). Have you checked out my program page? I have on there some neat stuff like science for seniors, technology for seniors, therapeutic writing, cane fu for seniors, exercise and fitness, and so much more. These type of activities would be great for your population. Check it out at http://www.recreativeresources.com/programming.htm

MDS 3.0 Forms

2010-12-29T11:23:00.000-08:00

Question:
Can you please send a blank copy of the new form for the new 3.0 MDS. Both Sections. Please and thank-you.

Answer:
You can download the MDS forms at http://www.recreativeresources.com/webdwnldmds.htm

Quality Assurance for Activity Departments

2010-12-28T05:48:00.000-08:00

Question:

Looking forward to 2011 we are looking for alternate Quality Assurance tracking measures. We have a few ideas we are tossing around but thought you would be a good resource for suggestions as to what other Communities track for their QA. We are open to suggestions and look forward to your input. We program for both Assisted Living and Health Center.

Answer:

QA is my specialty. Here's where you can learn more. http://www.recreativeresources.com/Quality.Assurance.htm

State of the Activity Profession-Call For Action Meeting

2010-11-28T16:28:00.000-08:00

Question:
Hey Kim,
What was doscussed and decided at the Call for Action Meeting in North Carolina?

Answer:
As you know, NCCAP and COAP recently held a Call for action meeting in regards to the state of the Activity Profession. Topics included the impact of the universal worker on the activity profession, inconsistencies with regulations, perception of the role of the activity professional, and marketing needs.
NCCAP State of the Activity Profession, Call to Action Meeting, North Carolina, November 13, 201088 Dedicated Activity Professionals from 23 States. out

Read all about the Call for Action Meeting, and view the videos on You Tube at
http://www.recreativeresources.com/Activity.Profession.htm

Question Regarding Activities CAAs

2010-11-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

Question:
Kim, I know what triggers the CAA, but I don't know how to fill in the notes or how to fill in the explanation, its all very confusing for me. Can you help?

Answer:
Did you do the RAP's for the 2.0? If so, then the process is the same.

Is your facility using the CAA Resources? If so, simply use the 4 page CAA Resources for activities and check off the areas that apply to the resident. Use that information gathered to write a narrative at the end of the CAA Resources describing why the resident triggered (or potential reasons).

If you are not using the actual CAA resources checklists that CMS provided, then use the CAA resources information to write your CAA summary. I love the CAA Resources checklist because it really makes you look at many possible reasons why the resident triggers for activities. Is it a health reason such as pneumonia? Is it because the resident is a short term stay and has no interest in activities? Is it a cognitive deficit, and so on. The point is to work through the CAA resources (or whatever additional assessment tool you have decided to use), to find out potential causes and reasons why the resident triggered. Residents typically trigger in activities because of some other reason-the underlying cause (mood, behavior, cognition, lack of resources, shyness, lack of interest, health reasons and dx, need for leisure education, medications, pain, availability, and so on. Use the CAA resources to help determine that underlying cause. Try it on one resident. Checking off each box in the left side of the CAA resource check list. In the right column write how you know that info. Was it in the medical record, or perhaps you observed it or a family or resident told you. It's a very helpful tool. It will also help you determine if you going to care plan or not.

Hope this helps put it in perspective.

MDS 3.0 Section F Preferences for Customary Routine and Activities: The Top Ten Questions Asked by Activity Professionals

2010-10-04T06:35:00.000-07:00

By Kimberly Grandal, CTRS, ACC/EDU

1. I don’t see section F on the quarterly? When is section F completed?
Section F, Preferences for Customary Routine and Activities, is completed any time a comprehensive assessment is conducted:
• Admission Assessment
• Annual Assessment
• Significant Change Assessment
• Significant Correction of a Prior Full

2. Who completes section F?
Which individual or department is completing various sections of the MDS 3.0 varies from facility to facility. There are reports of Activity Professionals completing the following:
• All of the resident interviews, in addition to section F
• Some of the interviews (mood, cognition, and/or preferences)
• None of the interviews or sections of the MDS 3.0
• Some facilities are training each member of the IDT to conduct the complete interview and then taking turns in conducting the interviews.
• The most common, however, appears to be that the Activity Professional is completing all of section F.

3. Do I still have to do quarterly notes even though section F is not in the quarterly MDS?
Just because section F is not included in the quarterly MDS, does not mean the Activity Department shouldn’t continue with their quarterly progress notes or other episodic notes. It is very important that the Activity Professional monitor each resident’s responses to activities and any activity interventions in accordance with the care plan. Quarterly and episodic notes help the Activity Professional to determine if changes should be made to care plans or if a change in the type of programming provided is needed.

4. Should I change my Activity Assessment?
Many Activity Directors are changing their Activity Assessments to be more compatible with the MDS 3.0. It’s really an individual choice. Look at your current Activity Assessment and be sure it doesn’t have any old MDS 2.0 language. If so, you may want to remove that and replace with current MDS 3.0 language. The Activity Assessment must provide the assessor with information that is necessary to plan a program of activities for the resident based on the resident’s individual need, interests, and preferences. Areas to consider include but are not limited to:
• Current, past and potential activity interests
• Potential barriers to activities such as psychosocial, cognitive, physical or health
• Family and community involvement
• Activity adaptations, modifications , adaptive equipment
• Cultural, language, education, religious, and spiritual considerations
• Special skills and strengths
• Recommendations or referrals

If you are looking to change your Activity Assessment to be more compatible with the MDS 3.0, then check out Recreation Therapy Consultants. They have a new Activity Assessment form available.

5. What exactly triggers activities in the MDS 3.0?
• Any 6 items for interview for activity preferences has the value of 4 (not important at all) or 5 (important, but cannot do or no choice) as indicated by any 6 of F00500A through F00500H is coded a 4 or 5.
• Any 6 items for staff assessment of activity preferences item L through T are not checked as indicated by any 6 of F0800L through F0800T are NOT checked.
• The Mood Interview reveals the resident has little interest or pleasure in doing things as indicated by: D0200A1=1.
• Staff assessment of resident mood suggests resident states little interest or pleasure in doing things as indicated by: D0500A1=1.

6. What is the difference between the Resident Assessment Protocols (RAPs) and the Care Area Assessment (CAAs)?
RAPS and CAAs are very similar in the respect that both:
• Review MDS and gathered data
• Involve decision-making and care planning
• Determine triggered care areas and assess further
• Include documentation in the medical record

The major difference between the RAPs and the CAAs is that there is no mandated assessment tool/ protocol like there was with the MDS 2.0 RAPs. Now facilities may choose to use CAA resources (Appendix C) and/or current standards of practice, evidence-based or expert-endorsed resources to conduct further assessment of triggered areas.

7. Do I have to care plan if the resident is alert and oriented and codes a 4 (not important) or 5 (important but can’t do, no choice) in the Activity Preferences Interview and triggers in activities?
One of the ways in which CAT number 10, Activities, will trigger is if the resident interview for activity preferences is coded with a total of six 4’s or 5’s. If the resident is alert/oriented and codes a 4 (not important at all), it just alerts us that we should look into it further. It could be that the resident is indeed alert/oriented, but is there some type of psychosocial factor or health issue that is the underlying cause of the resident answering a 4? Or is it that the resident answers 4's because he/she simply has no interest in those preferences being asked of him/her and may have other interests instead, such as crafts, exercise, computers, etc? Or if a resident codes a 5 (can’t do or no choice) this may indicate the resident has perceived or actual barriers or has developed a sense of learned helplessness. The primary concept of the CAA process is to look for those underlying causes and contributing factors.

The decision to care plan or not will vary depending on the CAA analysis and findings. It is also important to note that just because a resident triggers in activities, doesn’t mean we have to care plan for it. It is equally important to note, however, that just because a resident doesn’t trigger in activities, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t care plan. The decision to care plan or not is truly based on the resident’s problems, needs, preferences, strengths and the IDT’s findings and recommendations.

8. What do I do if the resident cannot or refuses to answer the interview questions?
If the resident doesn’t answer a preferences question, or answers with an incoherent or nonsensical response, then the assessor is to code a 9. Three code 9’s and the assessor is to stop the interview and complete the staff assessment for customary routine and activity preferences.

9. What type of documentation do I need to do for the CAAs?
CAA responsibilities, how it is facilitated, and where it is written in the medical record, will depend on facility protocol. Further assessment in a particular area should be within the scope of training or practice of the discipline filling out the section. CAA process must be interdisciplinary and involve the resident/significant other. CMS clearly states that CAA documentation must include:
• Nature of issue/condition.
• Causes, contributing risk factors, complications.
• Need for referrals and/ or further evaluation.
• Factors that must be considered in developing individualized care plan interventions including appropriate documentation to justify the decision to plan care or not to plan care for the individual resident.
• Resources used - Facilities may have written policies/ protocols/ standards of practice.
• Completion of Section V (CAA Summary).

10. Where can I watch the VIVE
• Order the video for free from CMS at http://productordering.cms.hhs.gov/Login.aspx • Watch the video online:
http://pickerinstitute.org/vive
http://www.youtube.com/cmshhsgov#p/u/7/Ereawm4_F7k http://www.recreativeresources.com/MDS3.0.htm

For more MDS 3.0 education, news and resources for Activity and Recreation Professionals visit http://www.recreativeresources.com/MDS3.0.htm

Flexibility = Mobility

2010-10-04T06:32:00.000-07:00

BY: NIKKI CARRION, MA
Co-owner; Fit Xpress LLC

“What is flexibility?” Flexibility is the ability of a joint to work through its full range-of-motion, and it is vital to health and fitness. Flexibility increases in response to regular stretching efforts, and it decreases with inactivity. Therefore, an inactive individual is likely to experience problems with flexibility which may in turn hamper even the simplest of daily activities. Aging also decreases natural elasticity of muscles and joints, but it is never too late to begin with efforts to increase flexibility. Potential benefits to such efforts include:
• Preventing, delaying the onset and/or reducing the associated symptoms of arthritis.
• Reductions in existing joint pain.
• Increases in balance and stability.
• Reduced incidence of muscle cramps.
• Improved posture and alignment.
• Enhanced development of strength.
• Production of the relaxation response.
o Slowing of breath and heart rate, reduction of mental stress and blood pressure.
“What do I need to know before I start?” For best results, efforts to stretch should be daily. A static stretch (one that is held) should be held for a minimum of 20 seconds, and a dynamic stretch (one that is done with movement) should be done in a smooth and fluid fashion.
“Where do I start?” Begin by doing a quick assessment in an effort to find a starting point.
• “Back scratch” (shoulder flexibility): To access the R shoulder, reach over the L shoulder with the L hand. Reach as far as you can…as if you are trying to reach a spot in the middle of your back that itches and you can’t quite reach it. NOW…reach the R hand down and under, reaching your R fingertips up toward your L fingertips. In your mind’s eye…estimate the distance between the finger tips. Switch sides, and compare the flexibility of the L shoulder to that of the R.
• “Sit-and-reach” (back, hips and leg flexibility): Sit up towards the front edge of the chair…extend the R leg forward, toes flexed up towards the ceiling. The L hand is placed firmly over the L leg for support. Reach toward the toes of the R foot with the fingertips of the R hand. The closer the fingers are to the toes (not bending the knee) the better the flexibility in the back, hips and back of the leg. Repeat with the L leg.
“How do I improve my flexibility?” For the purpose of being time efficient, focus on the 3 major joints; shoulders, chest and hips.

MDS 3.0 Question Regarding Activity Assessment

2010-08-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular questions that I get asked about the upcoming MDS 3.0 is, “What type of initial Activity Assessment do you recommend or how do I change my current assessment to accommodate the MDS 3.0”? I respond back with a question: “Why do you have to change your initial Activity Assessment?” The Activity Assessment does not have to reflect the MDS. In fact, why collect the data twice? Now, if your Activity Assessment has outdated terminology such as RAPs, Section N, Triggers for Little or No Activity, etc., then yes, you’ll want to either remove the old terminology and replace with the new lingo (e.g. CAT’s, CAA’s, section F, Resident Interview, Family/Significant other Interview, Staff Assessment, etc.)

Therapeutic Recreation Week

2010-06-29T15:57:00.000-07:00

Hi Kim,

MOst of the Activity Professionals I know, celebrate Activity Professional's Week in January. We celebrate both Activity Professional's Week and TR Week. Do you have any ideas on how we can celebrate TR Week in July?

Thanks, Mike S.

Hi Mike,

It's nice to hear that you celebrate both Activity Pro Week and TR Week! Congrats! You can get some great ideas from my website. I have a page dedicated to Therapeutic Recreation Week and one for Activity Professionals' Week. Good luck! Kim Grandal

Nursing Home Week

2010-04-23T17:44:00.000-07:00

Question:

Do you have any ideas or resources for National Nursing Home Week? Thanks.

Answer:
Visit the AHCA website for information about National Nursing Home Week

For great theme related activities visit Christine Jenning's Column.

Contact Hours Versus CEU's

2010-03-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

Question
What is the difference between Contact Hours and CEU's? I've asked this question to numerous people and they either don't know or the answer doesn't answer my question.

Answer
Contact hours (used by NCCAP) also known as Clock hours represent the actual time spent in the session. So if a session was from 9am to 11am it would be 2 contact hours or 2 clock hours.

Now, CEU's are in fact different. Many certification bodies such as NCTRC use the term CEU's which stands for Continuing Education Units. The basic conversion is that one CEU is equal to 10 contact hours, or one contact hour is equal to .1 CEUs. So if a session is from 9am to 11am it would be worth .2 CEU's

So if you see a session that advertises CEU's and you are NCCAP certified simply convert it to contact hours. If a session is .5 CEU's it's equal to 5 contact hours. If you are a CTRS and a session is advertised for 7 contact hours it's worth .7 CEU's.

Bingo Prizes

2010-01-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

Question:
Do you have any ideas for bingo prizes? Thanks

Answer:
AD's use all kinds of things for bingo prizes like candy, quarters, frames, jewerly (stuff from dollar stores). I used to give out bingo bucks and do a monthly auction where residents would bid on the prizes using their bingo bucks. That worked well. They always tried to outbid the other residents! Others set up a weekly or bi weekly bingo boutique for residents to use their bingo bucks. Giving out some kind of bingo bucks will make your prizes "stretch". Kim

Facility Staff Training

2010-01-03T06:46:00.000-08:00

QUESTIONDear Kim, I have been asked to deliver about the Activities Department. A recent survey found a number deficiencies in Activities that I actually had little control over. I have been told to increase the number of residents at all activities. Many residents who are unresponsive and unable to object, have been brought to the activities by the insistence of my supervisor to avoid the state surveyors citing our facility again. The CNA's have been resistant, saying things like, "I don't take people to activities who don't want to go." I appreciate their resistance myself. How can I address this situation and overcome these kind of objections? Facility Staff Training

ANSWER
Dear Facility Staff Training,

Your response to this is: Person centered activities! Depends on needs and interests of the residents.

Typically, residents that are unresponsive require 1 to 1 or very small group programming. Special programs like snoezelen, sensory or music or individualized programming, therefore may be inappropriate for traditional groups.

I am happy to hear that CNA'a are resistant to bringing residents who do not want to go to activities. However, the CNA's still need to be invloved and help offer meaninful activity, giving choices, activity supllies/materials, etc. But be sure to together address their preferences in the comoprehensive care plan!

Gone are the days of large group programs-just bringing residents to groups to have them engaged in "something". Activity programming MUST be person centered and meaningful for each resident. You can just as easily get a deficiency for bringing a low functioning resident to an inappropriate group as you can for a resident being idle and not provided with an appropriate program of activities.

You need to start with a population analysis and calendar analysis as well as look at the care plan for each resident and make sure that each resident has some sort of plan or intervention for activities. Then this plan must be adhered to.

I have two inservices you may be interested in that would help you in the delivery of YOUR inservice. One is Breaking Dowj the Silos-an Interdisciplinary Approach to Quality of Life. It's a complete inservice (handout, powerpoint presentation, post test and teachers notes, and a game. It's $25 and can be purchased here
http://www.recreativeresources.com/recreationforms.htm

I also give a webinar called Person Centered Activities-For the Good of the Individual. This session includes the philosophy of Person Centered activities, importance, care planning, assessment, implementing person centered activities, current trends, special accommodations, communicating the plan, and more. Also included are 3 case studies to do as a group (you can leave it out if you choose). But it would guide you in your discussion about the importance of and implementation of a person centered program of activities. Here's a line from the handout:

Person-centered care focuses on how the individual with the disability would like to pursue the direction of his/her care and life; NOT on how the individual with the disability will fit into the existing system and services

In any case, it's important for you to STRESS person centered activities and interdisciplinary approaches to quality of life and that not all residents want to, need to, or are appropriate to attend group programs. The key here is the assessment and care planning process, especially for those who have activity deficits, behavior issues, low functioning, etc.

Please let me know if you need further assistance. Good luck!

National Activity Professionals Week

2009-12-28T06:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Kim- Do you have any ideas on how I cna promote NAPW in my facility? Thanks! Marie in Connecticut.

Hi Marie-thanks for inquiring about NAPW. Here's some information you may find quite useful. Life. Be in it! Kim

National Activity Professionals Week is January 17-22, 2010, “Caring By Design” The Activity Professionals Week special edition of the Rec-Room was so large that I had to do it in a different format this month. The issue features several great, innovative ideas from Activity Professionals, numerous ideas to help you celebrat...e NAPW, and the annual raffle extravaganza. This year, the raffle has over $3,000 worth of fantastic prizes including MEPAP courses, home study ce’s, products and services for the Activity Department, and much more. To view this exciting issue of the Rec-Room visit http://www.recreativeresources.com/January2010RecRoomActivityProfessionalsWeek.htm

Christine's November Activities

2009-10-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

The November theme activities have been added to Christine's Column. Download for free at http://www.recreativeresources.com/SpecialEventsandThemes.htm

Seminars in NJ

2009-08-11T10:44:00.001-07:00

Re-Creative Resources Inc. Workshop: A Learning Buffet for Recreation Professionals
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Daughter’s of Miriam Center, Clifton, NJ
8:30am-4:00pm
NCCAP approved for 6 ce’s.

Kim Grandal, CTRS, ACC and Aimee Montgomery Wilson, CTRS, ACC team up for this all-day extravaganza. Looking to stir up some fresh ideas, nourish your brain with new skills, and feed your spirit through networking with peers? Well, join us for this “buffet” of educational sessions. There are four 1.5 hour sessions in this all day workshop which include:

*Never Too Old to Learn: Educational Activities for the Elderly-This session is designed to provide information that will assist activity and recreation professionals on the development and provision of a large variety of educational activities specifically designed for the elderly.
*Developmental Disabilities: An Overview-This session is designed to provide an overview of developmental disabilities. It will provide recreation/activity staff with foundation knowledge of characteristics of common developmental disabilities, implications for recreation and activities, and an understanding of disabilities and aging.
*Talking Shop: Men’s Activity Program Ideas-This session is designed to provide information that will assist activity and recreation professionals in the development and provision of meaningful activities for the male population.
*Coaching Your Team to Excellence: Real Time Techniques for Staff and Volunteers-This session is designed to develop leadership and management skills through proper application of techniques and concepts using coaching as the medium for growth and empowerment. Foundation knowledge will be built upon to further the participant’s critical thinking skills.So, if you’re hungry for knowledge and thirsty for continuing education credits, then you do not want to miss this workshop! Continental breakfast and lunch will be served.

To learn more or to register, contact Kim Grandal at kimgrandal@aol.com or visit http://www.recreativeresources.com/.

Recreation Facilitation Techniques: Theory and Practice in Long-Term Care

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Lincoln Park Care Center, Lincoln Park, NJ

8:30am-1:00pm

Presented by Kimberly Grandal, CTRS, ACC

NCCAP approved for 4 ce’s

Whether you are a seasoned recreation professional or new in the field, this session offers an overview and tips for a variety of recreation and activity techniques that may be utilized to enhance the quality of life and functional status of LTC residents. Areas covered include, but are not limited to: validation, milieu therapy, humor, remotivation, adapting activities, spirituality, leisure education, program leadership guidelines, one-to-one programming, and much more. All participants receive the Re-Creative Resources Inc. training game, "Tic Tac Techniques". A continental breakfast will be served.

To learn more or to register, contact Kim Grandal at kimgrandal@aol.com or visit http://www.recreativeresources.com/.

Taking the Write Path: Recreation Documentation for Quality of Life

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Parker at Stonegate Assisted Living, Highland Park, NJ

8:30am-5:00pm

Presented by Kimberly Grandal, CTRS,ACC

NCCAP approved for 7 ce's

Tired of taking the wrong documentation path? Well, join us for a fun all day documentation seminar that will help put you on the “write path”! This session is designed to provide an educational opportunity for Activity/Recreation Professionals and Creative Arts Therapists in long-term care facilities to learn and utilize documentation techniques, which will enhance the quality of life of the residents. This is an intense and comprehensive workshop that meets the documentation component of NCCAP’s Track 5 for Activity Director Certified. Participants will engage in group exercises and fun games! Topics include: assessment, care planning (traditional and I care plans), RAPs, MDS 2.0 and MDS 3.0 update, progress notes, and attendance records)All participants receive downloadable documentation forms and tools. Refreshments and lunch will be served.

To learn more or to register, contact Kim Grandal at kimgrandal@aol.com or visit www.recreativeresources.com.

Comment Regarding Free Downloads

2009-07-16T18:35:00.001-07:00

Recently someone wrote me and said, "This site would be nice if the free downloads were true". I would like to say for the record that I do have over 30 free forms on the FREE DOWNLOAD PAGE (which has been there for years) and a few months ago I added a THEME RELATED ACTIVITY PAGE, with a special columun called, Christine's Column-which features tons of theme related ideas-all downloadable. I had responded to the individual that made this comment, sending several emails to try and resolve the issue, with no response to my emails. If you ever have trouble downloading something from my website or have comments, concerns, etc., please let me know and I will do everything I can to help you. Enjoy all the free downloads on the Re-Creative Resources Inc. website! Kim :)

August Activity Ideas

2009-07-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

Kim,

There are no official holidays in August. Do you have any ideas?

Thank you!

One Woman Show

2009-06-29T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hi, I am an activity director in a 60 SNF bed, 30 bed alzheimers unit and 65 be rest home. Our census has been very low the last 8 months and in January I had to let my one assitant go so now it is just me! I have to plan the activities at home and do my two calendars there also. I have to do most of the activities I do have some volunteers whom I thank GOD for. Just wondering if you had any suggestions on how I could chart on a regular basis, attend managers mtgs. order supplies, call volunteers for special events, plan beauty shop list and follow up to be sure they are taken two days a week and still have time for a lunch break!! I am very dedicated to my profession and LOVE my residents but my time is very limited!

New Movie For Recreation and Activity Professionals

2009-06-26T06:11:00.001-07:00

The movie is based on the article, "Frustrated, Burnt, Angry and Resentful: A-Z Tips for Recreation and Activity Professionals Who Need a Boost”, that I had written months ago in response to an upset professional who wrote to me. Many Activity and Recreation professionals burn out early in their careers. The leisure profession is one that is growing but often times misunderstood, therefore leaving many feeling frustrated, unappreciated, and defeated. Most of you know what I’m talking about!
This movie will help you, the Recreation and Activity Professionals, to feel inspired and teach you to have more control over your career. To watch this inspiring movie visit:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1ytoNUdG9Q

May, 2009 Re-Creative Resources Inc. Webinar Schedule

2009-04-13T05:09:00.000-07:00

Re-Creative Resources offers webinars for Activity Professionals, Recreation Therapists and other health care providers. Sessions are live, fun, interactive, affordable and educational. Individual and group rates are available. Facilities and organizations may even schedule a private session for ce's or as a staff in-service. All sessions are NCCAP approved for 1.5 contact hours. You may register on-line or via mail. To learn more about these great webinars, please visit http://www.recreativeresources.com/webinars.htm. You may also email Kim at kimgrandal@aol.com or call 732-340-1210.

The May, 2009 schedule is as follows:

DECREASING THE BARRIERS TO RECREATION AND ACTIVITY PURSUITS THROUGH ADAPTATION

Wednesday, May 6, 2009 from 9:00am-10:30am (EDT)
Wednesday, May 13, 2009 from 7:00pm-8:30pm (EDT)

TALKING SHOP: MEN'S PROGRAMMING IDEAS FOR RECREATION PROFESSIONALS

Tuesday, May 19, 2009 from 9:00am-10:30am (EDT)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009 from 7:00pm-8:30pm (EDT)

MEPAP in NJ

2009-04-11T07:33:00.001-07:00

DH Special Services is offering the MEPAP I starting May 4th at Lutheran Care of Moorestown in Moorestown, NJ (Burlington County). MEPAP II is starting May 7th at Medford Leas in Medford, NJ (Burlington County). For more information visit www.dhspecialservices.com

April Webinar Schedule

2009-03-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

PERSON CENTERED ACTIVITIES: FOR THE GOOD OF THE INDIVIDUAL(session overview)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009 from 9:00am-10:30am (EDT) REGISTER NOW
Tuesday, April 14, 2009 from 7:00pm-8:30pm (EDT) REGISTER NOW

DECREASING THE BARRIERS TO RECREATION AND ACTIVITY PURSUITS THROUGH ADAPTATION (session overview)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009 from 9:00am-10:30am (EDT) REGISTER NOW
Thursday, April 23, 2009 from 7:00pm-8:30pm (EDT) REGISTER NOW

For a complete list of webinar topics and descriptions, click here

Men's Activities

2009-03-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

Kim,

I having more and more trouble coming up with activities for the men in my facility. Do you have any ideas? Thanks.

Re-Creative Resources on Facebook

2009-03-07T08:07:00.000-08:00

Re-Creative Resources Inc. is now on Facebook. Come join our GROUP for networking, news and reconnections! If you are not a member of Facebook you will have to join but it's free and alot of fun! To check out Re-Creative Resources Inc. on Facebook please visit
http://www.facebook.com/groups.php?ref=sb#/group.php?gid=58732876306.

Webinars Now in Session

2009-03-01T16:58:00.001-08:00

I am finally ready to offer webinars, AKA on-line seminars. I am very excited about this new method of education. I will be developing many different sessions and offering them various times and dates. In addition, you can schedule a private webinar for your group or as an in-service for your staff.

The first session is entitled, ‘Person-Centered Activities: For the Good of the Individual.” This NCCAP approved session is 1 contact hour. Click here for complete webinar information and registration

Sexual Harassment

2009-01-13T14:18:00.000-08:00

Kim,

One of my employees recently told me that she feels uncomfortable around the director of nursing. The employee stated that the director of nursing, (a young male), makes comments about her clothes and "how difficult it must be to play bowling in such short skirts". My employee also told me that the director of nursing has put his arm around her, hugged her and even kissed her on the cheek. My employee doesn't know how to handle the situation and quite honestly, neither do I. My employee doesn't want me to report it. Do I have to address this even though she wants me to just leave it alone?

Thanks Kim-I appreciate your help.

Activity Videos Now on DVD!

2009-01-09T06:23:00.000-08:00

I am happy to announce that the activity videos are now available on DVD. Both videos are on one DVD for a very low price of $7 plus shipping and handling. ORDER TODAY to ensure you have this fantastic DVD in time for Activity Professionals Week! For more information visit http://www.recreativeresources.com/videos.htm.

Activity FUN-damentals

2008-12-17T07:47:00.001-08:00

I am happy to announce that I have completed another movie called, "Activity FUN-damentals: how therapeutic activities benefit the elderly. This four and a half minute movie is a great educational tool for in-services and new employee training.Please take a few moments to watch this-you won't be sorry! You can view this on You-Tube or the Re-Creative Resources Inc. blog.If you're interested in obtaining a copy of this movie, please email Kim.Enjoy!

Activity Professionals on You-Tube

2008-12-06T06:39:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited to announce that the Activity Professional movie I've been working on, is finally up and running on You-tube. The movie, called Activity Professionals in ACTion is just 4 minutes. It is quite inspirational and can be used to motivate, promote, and educate about our profession. Check it out on You-Tube by clicking here: Activity Professionals in Action. If you would like a copy of the movie to show your staff, students, conference attendees,etc., contact Kim Grandal. Enjoy

Time Management Help

2008-11-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

Kim-

I just can't do it all. Do you have any time management tips????????

Sincerely,

Running Out of Time

Fundraising Resources

2008-11-11T06:36:00.000-08:00

Kim,

I attended one of your seminars and you gave out a list of great fundraising resources. I lost mine. Can you please send me that list?

Thank you

Kristina

Holiday Help

2008-11-10T12:46:00.000-08:00

Hi Kim! First off, I'd like to say thank you for your great website, newsletter and resources. Even though, I am hundreds of miles away from you, I feel like I have my very own, private consultant, always willing to help. So, thank you for that and for being such an inspiration to all!

I am dreading the crazy holiday season. I always get so stressed at work and at home. Do you have any advice on how to survive?

Sincerely, Worried in Wyoming

Frustrated, Burnt, Angry and Resentful

2008-09-07T05:58:00.000-07:00

"Hi Kim,

It is good to be on your mailing list. I am going through some rough times right now and I need help finding a path! I am in a small assisted living coming off my 3rd year as the Activity Director and we are down in census right now, so everyone is getting things heaped onto their plates. I am feeling very burnt, angry, and resentful that I have to be everything for everybody. I have been looking for jobs but not sure that I want to stay in this field because this feels like the nature of the job all over.

What I need the help in is standing up for myself and my department on what we can and won't do as part of our jobs. Right now we are the porters, the food service, the activities, the bus drivers, and marketing and I have little to no time or energy for my family and I am certainly not getting paid enough for all the extra hours I put in.

I love the residents and when I can do a group, uninterrupted, and have some creativity (but that is rare) I feel as if I am responsible for making it all happen! It feels like there is no way to manage time because of the crisis factor and the end result if that I am stifled creatively and therefore shutting down. All of this is holding me back from getting my MEPAP 2 done and getting certified. I just don't think it is any better anywhere else!

Sincerely,
Frustrated in XYX Assisted Living Facility"

Quality Assurance

2008-09-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Kim. I'm hoping you can help me. Could you tell me what type of information I should be using for an appropiate Quality Assurance for the Activity Department? Also, do you know of anyone who teaches this section? This is an area I have never been quite certain and find a little confused. Thank you in advance for any information you can provide me with.