Infection Control is at the forefront of our minds in everything that we do here at Voyage Long Term Care, especially when it comes to resident activities. As highlighted in our previous blog post “The Importance of Daily Activities in Nursing Homes”, the activities we offer our residents are proven to help counteract depression, prevent boredom, and lead to socialization amongst peers.
This is why our team here at Voyage decided to create fun and engaging disposable infection control placemats. These placemats not only provide an extra layer of protection during mealtimes, but also promote safe socialization, physical and mental improvement activities, and healthy habits.
Providing an Extra Layer of Protection At Skyview Nursing Center & Oak Hills Care Center, tables are always cleaned and disinfected prior to mealtimes.
“These placemats are an additional layer of infection control that not only helps to reduce the spread of germs by limiting surface contact, but also keeping our residents mentally and socially engaged.” - Daniel Van Wechel, Infection Control Specialist
Promoting Safe Socialization Socializing with others can actually help boost resident’s confidence and self-esteem, as well as prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation. During these trying times, it has become increasingly important to keep yourself at a safe distance from others. One way that our residents can practice this while also being social is by playing the “Socializing from a Distance” game section on our disposable placemats. This section directs residents to safely ask questions to residents or staff members such as “when is your birthday” or “what is your favorite sport”. This allows residents to find things in common with and learn more about others they live with.
Improving Coordination & Muscle Control
As a person ages, it becomes more difficult to control the muscles in their arms and hands. One way that our residents are able to improve their muscle control is through drawing and coloring. The disposable placemats provide plenty of space for these types of activities, while also allowing residents to express their creativity.
Improving Cognitive Abilities Regularly engaging in mental exercises can have a positive impact on a person’s brain. This is especially important as people age, because some cognitive abilities can start to fade as we get older. The disposable placemats have a vast range of mentally stimulating activities such as word searches, puzzles, and mazes.
“These are an amazing way to keep residents engaged and having fun!” - Vincent Holden, Director of Social Services & Activities (Skyview Nursing Center)
Promoting Healthy Habits In an additional layer of infection control, our in-house design team created Sammy the Squirrel, the Voyage Infection Control mascot.
On our placemats, Sammy takes residents through a comic book style approach on how to stay healthy, including different strips such as Handwashing, Wearing a Mask, and Healthy Habits with Sammy the Squirrel. This is a fun and engaging way to keep residents educated on the proper practices of staying healthy.
To learn more about Voyage Long Term Care and the long term care facilities they manage, visit http://www.voyageltc.com.
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