Outline:
Section 1: Introduction A. About This Course B. Learning Objectives Section 2: Background of the Activities Department A. Maximizing Well-Being and Independence B. Areas of Well-Being C. Transforming Lives D. Let’s Review Section 3: Staffing A. Activity Coordinator B. Drivers C. Volunteers D. Let’s Review Section 4: Volunteer Programs A. A Vital Part of the Team B. Elements of a Good Volunteer Program C. What Volunteers Should and Should Not Do D. Let’s Review Section 5: Assessment, Evaluation, and Documentation A. Admission B. Treatment Plan C. Record Keeping D. Let’s Review Section 6: In-House Activities A. Advantages B. Group Activities C. Tours D. Let’s Review Section 7: Other Activities A. Intergenerational Activities B. Choral and Instrumental Groups C. Movie and Film Viewings D. Academic Activities E. Special Interest Groups F. Crafts, Pottery, and Resident Exhibits G. Life Stories H. Let’s Review Section 8: Food as a Catalyst for Communication and Socialization A. Food as a Catalyst: An Example B. Let’s Review Section 9: Exercise and Physical Wellness Programs A. Options B. Specialized Activities C. Walking D. Weight Training E. Basic Exercise and Movement Instruction F. Weight Loss and Diet Programs G. Aquatic Exercise H. Games I. Let’s Review Section 10: Importing Activities A. Using your Imagination B. Performances by Local Students and Community Members C. Classes and Lectures D. Visits from Local Officials and Politicians E. Awareness Campaigns and Safety Instruction F. Review Section 11: Exporting Individuals A. Transportation B. Let’s Review Section 12: Activities for People Confined to Bed A. Meeting Social Needs B. Encouragement C. Let’s Review Section 13: Facility Equipment A. Tools for Participation B. Vehicular Needs C. Let’s Review Section 14: Communications A. Deviating from the Norm B. Keeping People Informed C. Let’s Review Section 15: Feedback A. Improvement of Future Events B. Directed or Undirected C. An Annual Survey D. Let’s Review Section 16: Conclusion A. Summary B. Course Contributor C. References D. Congratulations! E. Exam

Karen C. Schnaufer, BSN, RN, Content Writer, Relias Learning, has held positions as staff nurse, charge nurse, research nurse clinician, and clinical instructor with over 25 years of clinical practice in a broad range of specialties: med/surg, pediatrics, long term care, mental health, research, and IDD. Prior to becoming a Registered Nurse, Ms. Schnaufer successfully challenged the Practical Nursing Boards in NY. After working with the Breast Oncology Research group at Duke, Ms. Schnaufer switched her focus to the area of IDD and worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health issues, who live in group homes. Among her various responsibilities in this area was to train direct support staff and clinicians in medical issues/medication administration, participate in state surveys, providing and implementing plans of correction, as well as, serving on various committees, such as Human Rights, to help improve the lives of the individuals supported. To this day, she continues to volunteer in this realm. A veteran of the U.S.A.F., Ms. Schnaufer is committed to creating relevant and intelligent continuing education courses for healthcare professionals throughout the continuum of care. Disclosure: Karen C. Schnaufer, BSN, RN has declared that no conflict of interest, Relevant Financial Relationship or Relevant Non-Financial Relationship exists.