The latest instalment in our activity coordinator interviews. This month: Barbara Bell, activity co-ordinator, Rose Lodge Care Home, Exmouth.
Barbara has been an activity coordinator at Rose Lodge for two and a half years. Her previous roles were in administration, and, she says, the organisational skills she learned there have benefited her in her current role, helping with planning and prioritising activities. “I share an interest with the residents in the content of the Daily Sparkle, and this is reflected in our Chit Chat Club when discussing historical events and stories,” she adds. “I take great pleasure seeing the residents happy. It is a very rewarding job and I am very thankful when the residents show their appreciation.”
The best thing about my job is…I never dread getting out of bed each day to go to work.
The hardest thing about my job is…there are not enough hours in the day to do all I would like to do.
I can’t get through the day without…singing and smiling.
I tend to do most of my planning…when the residents are having dinner.
The best time of the week is…Pamper Day. I love to manicure nails and see the ladies (and gents!) getting their hair done.
The busiest time of the week is…mornings – getting the Daily Sparkle in reception and delivered to rooms and then setting up for the days activities.
I use the Daily Sparkle for…my Chit Chat Club and one-to-one activity with residents in their rooms.
Our residents love the Daily Sparkle because…they can relate to the articles and they love to chat.
My top tip for busy activities coordinators is…I’ve learned that you can’t please everyone all of the time, so slow down and plan activities for residents with equal ability, and also don’t forget to take time for those alone in their rooms.
