A successful small group activity with my residents in memory care is creative writing. It is not a long lasting activity but brings on the satisfaction for your residents that they helped contribute to the story!
Supplies Needed:
- Printed Picture for each participant. THE SAME PICTURE.
- Paper and pen for group leader to write down comments.
Tip – make sure that the picture is engaging and possibly familiar with your participants. Print in color and have the picture be as large as possible to fit the page. There are many online sources to find pictures. (Examples follow after this article)
The Group:
Pass out the picture to each participant. Ask questions about the picture and write down all of the comments. Try asking five senses questions. What do they see? What can they smell? What do they hear? What would it feel like? What would it taste like?
After the group, take the comments and type them into a cohesive story. Put the typed story and copy of the picture on a board for all to see. Make sure to read the story to the participants and praise them for their part in this creative process.
Another added bonus is that this looks great during tours. Make sure that you let the marketing and other department managers know what it is and how it is a great selling point.
