That’s a WRAP!

This article is a rewind from last year.  I feel that the article is a good reminder to us for the upcoming year and will be new advice for all of our new members who have joined NAAP this year.

With the year 2024 coming to an end, let’s reflect on the amazing engagement opportunities you have had for and with your residents in 2024.  Are there some standout ones that you remember that were positively received by residents and families?  Are there events that you may want to continue as a tradition at your facility?  I encourage you to purchase a 2025 planner now if you haven’t and start using it! It is not too early to book your favorite entertainers for next year.  Do you want to have your local area’s BEST Elvis entertainer actually perform on Elvis’s birthday?  BOOK NOW!

My best practice when it came to hiring the favorites was to book the year in advance.  In doing this, I was able to book the entertainer that I wanted on the date that I wanted to give my residents the best of the best and at the best times.  Another win from doing this is that when other entertainers call to try to book with you, you can let them know that you are booked for the year but are willing to squeeze them into a 30-minute time slot at an upcoming happy hour or social if they wanted to “try out” for next year’s calendar free of charge.  I found some great new (and free) entertainment this way.

One more thought to close out the year: Compile a “Yearbook” or “Year in Review” book chock full of pictures and fond memories of the fun and engaging year at your facility.  This does not have to be fancy. Create a WORD or Publisher document for each month, add pictures and comments about what was happening in the photos.  Compile into a booklet form that is available for each resident at your New Year’s Eve Party.  Make extras to keep in the lobby for those that may not attend the party.  This does not have to be a big project or undertaking.  Seek assistance from your front receptionist, volunteer, or high school student in need of service hours.  Pro-tip: create a folder in your computer for the project for 2025, add to it each month at the commencement of the month so it is easily accessible and less work to compile at the end of the year.   Ensure all people in your pictures have a signed photo/media release form giving permission for pictures to be taken of them.

Happy (almost) New Year!

Kim Mead NAAP Leadership Team