Leisure Skills for Group Homes

A group home is a residential facility for people who need some level of living assistance or care. Residents receive services ranging from personal care to health-related assistance and recreational activities, according to Senior Living Guide. Facilities should strive to offer a variety of leisure activities that promote the physical, mental and emotional well-being of residents.

Exercise

• Exercise is beneficial for everyone, but can be especially important for those who are elderly or disabled and would not otherwise get much exercise. A variety of entertaining games involving large, light balls or balloons promote hand-eye coordination. The Therapeutic Recreation Directory suggests playing Seated Soccer, a variation of soccer in which a group of 5-15 residents sit in chairs in a large circle and kick a large exercise ball back and forth. Another suggestion is Balloon Bop, a helium balloon game for 2-20 residents in which they attempt to keep a balloon from hitting the ground. The score is determined by the number of successful hits before the balloon falls.

Relaxation

• Activities related to relaxation promote healing and a normal heart rate, ease anxiety and lessen mood swings, says Nursing Home Activities Resource. Some relaxing activities that work well in a group home setting include watching a movie, listening to music, reading or having someone read aloud. Recordings of nature sounds or white noise can also be helpful, particularly for those who have problems with insomnia.

Games

• Games can reduce stress, sharpen memory, improve coordination, and foster a sense of acceptance, states Nursing Home Activities Resource. Board games such as Checkers and Chess are favorites, along with card and dice games. Others may be more flexible, such as Bingo or games featuring trivia, both of which can revolve around a theme, depending on a season or occasion. Name That Tune or Charades are also classics for which there is plenty of material.

Outings

• A change of scenery is important for everyone occasionally. Facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid are legally obligated to provide residents an opportunity to attend religious services if they desire, according to Nursing Home Activities. Additionally, community events, tours, musical events or picnics make a nice change of pace. Many facilities, especially larger ones, routinely transport residents on trips or to run errands. If this is a problem, smaller facilities can recruit volunteers. For outdoor activities that do not require travel, consider gardening. An occasional cookout is also a welcome break in routine.