‘Funtastic’ Lockdown in Warburg!

One of the challenges we’ve all experienced during Covid-19 is keeping active and engaged. That can be even more of a challenge in a congregate setting like the Cloverleaf Intensive Supports program with tight restrictions needed to keep our residents and staff safe. Boredom, loneliness and fear of the unknown can lead to escalated client behavior. To combat those issues, the team consistently goes outside the box in the  activities they organize for clients.  

Holidays are ideal for celebrations and staff often arrive dressed in the theme of the day. Lianna Mackinnon, Case Manager, plans holiday activities (Christmas, Canada Day, Easter, Valentine’s Day, etc.) and staff volunteer to come in on their days off to make the event much more entertaining. As there is limited family involvement with our clients and residents in the Warburg Cloverleaf Manor where our program is based, the team wants to make holiday times as special as possible.

Clients suggest some activities themselves. Their ideas have led to us making s’mores by the fire at night, having wiener roasts, or holding games tournaments. Activities are often open to Cloverleaf Manor residents adding to the community spirit across the site. Staff definitely participate due to the FUN factor but the activities are also great opportunities to strengthen individual relationships with our clients.

Staff participation is a key strategy for client ‘buy-in’. The wackier the activity, the more clients join us. The enthusiastic response of clients before, during and after activities is plenty of incentive for staff to continually create unique, inclusive and ‘funtastic’ activities for all! Check out these photos for samples of the COVID fun at Cloverleaf.

Contributed by John Norton, Program Manager, GSS Cloverleaf Intensive Supports Program