Activity Program

Individual activities are dependent on the health and interests of the resident. The range of activities is intended to meet the needs of all residents, from the disoriented to the wheelchair bound to the ambulatory. A wide range of activities are implemented to encourage residents to find new and satisfying social relationships, to connect with their environment.

Examples of a few such activities are:

• Monthly birthday parties to which all residents, family and friends are invited to participate.
  
  
• Celebrations of various holidays, both secular and religious. Holidays are particularly difficult times for those away from their own home, family and friends. Our residents are part of The Heathers family and enjoy celebrating these holidays with us: Valentine's Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving Christmas and Hanukkah and New Years Eve.
  
  
• Musical events including backyard symphonies and concerts are enjoyed actively or passively depending on the abilities of our residents. Each home is equipped with pianos and karaoke machines for group sing-alongs, in which the residents request their favorite songs and sing along with a leader. The involvement of staff members, volunteers, family members and friends make these social events both fun and memorable.
  
  
• Games. foster both one-to-one relationships and group activity. Bingo is a favorite for many, however, bridge, chess, and other games for smaller groups, such as the interactive wii games, are available as well. Staff members, volunteers and family members help stimulate resident interest in a game and help arrange suitable opponents. Contests and tournaments are sometimes arranged for bridge or game players.
  
  
• Outdoor activities include gardening, cookouts, or just enjoying time in the sun alone or with a friend. The Heathers staff and family members take the immobile residents outside as often as they like.
  
  
• Physical fitness. The Heathers staff, along with volunteers, arrange for suitable exercise according to the resident’s abilities.
  
  
• Tea Time. Enjoying a hot tea or cold lemonade together is a particularly nice time for volunteers, family and friends to join the residents for a social.
  
  
• Arts and crafts. The Heathers, volunteers or family members lead special projects such as creating greeting cards or painting. Residents enjoy socializing during this time.
  
  
• Religious services. For residents who are non ambulatory, The Heathers welcomes denominational and non denominational groups to provide religious services in the home for those who wish to attend. This often provides an opportunity for families and friends to join the resident in worship. The organization of such services is usually handled by the activities coordinator.
  
  
• Guest Speakers and Discussion Groups. The Heathers residents enjoy listening to guest speakers and joining in interesting and relevant group discussions.