Flipping the Script: Empowering Residents through Meaningful Engagement
Too often, I have observed staff directing residents—telling them what they need or where they are expected to be. This approach overlooks an essential truth: Long Term Care Facilities are the residents’ homes. Like anyone else in their own home, they deserve the autonomy to decide how they spend their time and how they live their lives.
We must shift our perspective. When we take the time to ask residents what they want and need, they are quick to respond. Even more importantly, they feel heard, respected, and valued. This sense of agency is vital for emotional well-being and quality of life.
What Are We Asking Residents?
As Activity Professionals, it’s worth reflecting on the types of questions we pose to residents. Are we limiting conversations to “Will you attend this activity?”—or are we opening doors to deeper involvement?
Consider asking:
- Which activities would you like to see on the calendar?
- Would you be interested in leading or volunteering in a program?
- Could your family members contribute ideas, materials, or financial support to enhance our activities?
When residents become collaborators rather than passive participants, their engagement and sense of purpose grow exponentially.
Harnessing Technology and New Skills
As the resident population becomes younger and more technologically adept, we have opportunities we didn’t have before. Residents may already be comfortable using tablets, smartphones, and laptops. Why not ask them to:
- Research content for a program or lecture using Google.
- Design presentation slides for an educational or entertainment session.
- Co-host events—from trivia games to discussion groups—using their own expertise and experiences.
This not only builds programs that are more relevant to them, but also validates their modern skills and life experiences.
Real-World Examples
- A retired teacher might enjoy leading a monthly book discussion.
- A former nurse could help organize a basic health education session.
- A tech-savvy resident could create a slideshow about their favorite travel destination for a cultural program.
- Residents could invite family members to donate art supplies or sponsor a music event, allowing loved ones to be part of their community life.
Recommendations for Activity Professionals
- Conduct regular resident councils or feedback sessions focused on programming.
- Create leadership roles—residents can serve as activity ambassadors, co-planners, or program hosts.
- Document and honor resident input—when suggestions make it onto the calendar, acknowledge who inspired them.
- Use technology surveys to see who is willing to help with research, presentations, or social media posts about facility events.
- Involve families intentionally by letting them know how their contributions—time, resources, or expertise—directly enhance their loved one’s daily life.
The more we engage residents as active partners, the more we empower them to live meaningful, self-directed lives within our communities. Instead of telling them where to be, we can stand beside them, helping them shape a daily life that truly feels like home.
- Catherine Sabatini NAAP Leadership Team 2025
