Extendicare Kirkland Lake resident Helen Cook is seen here participating in the home’s recent casino night.
Monthly themed events successful at encouraging resident participation
Events also encourage staff participation and media engagement
Wednesday February 17, 2010 -- Deron Hamel
Hosting unique, themed events each month at Extendicare Kirkland Lake has successfully engaged residents at the northern Ontario long-term care home in activities, says programs manager Lynn Stabryla.

Stabryla says these events are avenues that can get residents reminiscing. These activities also encourage staff participation and enhance the home’s profile in the community through the local media, she adds.

Most of all, the events are fun and the residents have a good time, Stabryla says.

“This is something we’ve been doing now for the past three or four years — the residents enjoy (these events),” Stabryla says.

“(The events) also get the staff involved. We also get good (media) coverage.”

The latest activity in this series was Jan. 25 when the home hosted a casino night, featuring card games including, pinochle, blackjack and roulette.

The 35 participating residents were each given $500 worth of “Extendicare bucks” for betting.

Stabryla recalls one event at the home that was particularly fruitful, in terms of encouraging resident reminiscing. This was the day Canada’s most beloved trophy, the Stanley Cup, paid a visit to the home.

Events in February include a local winter carnival and the Valentine’s Day “sweethearts’ dinner” for couples.

In March, the home hosts a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. April will see Easter celebrations. Another noteworthy event will be the home’s annual dog show. In summer, the home will host its yearly barbecue.

Stabryla says she encourages other long-term care homes to host monthly themed events that encourage resident participation and provide community awareness.

Do you have a story you would like to share with the Morning Report about an event at your home? If so, please contact the newsroom at 800-294-0051, ext. 23, or e-mail deron(at)axiomnews.ca.

If you have feedback on this story, please call the newsroom at 800-294-0051, or e-mail deron(at)axiomnews.ca.