The theme for this May’s Older Americans Month has been announced by the Administration on Aging. The theme for 2012 is “Never Too Old to Play”, which encourages older Americans to stay active in their lives physically, socially, and mentally. This theme will allow for a lot of fun, creative activities that the staff and customers we serve can engage in. Additional information will be released soon, visit the AOA website to stay abreast of developments.
This theme comes at a very good time. There is an increasing amount of research being done that touts the positive impact playing simple games, including electronics, can can have on preventing physical and cognitive decline. U.S. PharmD, a list of pharmacy schools and degrees in the U.S., has a list of the 50 best video games for improving health and preventing senior decline.
This theme does not end with activities! There are a variety of ways you can include “Never Too Old to Play” in your menu planning for the month. Have a game night and let residents decorate their own sugar cookies. SureQuest’s Recipes® OnDemand contains great, simple recipes for Sugar Cookies and Vanilla Icing. Cut the dough into crazy shapes and add some food dye to the icing. Have interesting, interactive meals that allow the residents to “play” with their food, all the while letting them know how important they are to you and your facility.
Most importantly, have fun!
Posted in:Culture Change, Events, January 2012, Menus, Quality of Life
