Q:
How does the activities CAA influence care planning?
A:
The Activities Critical Assessment Area (CAA) triggers when the MDS identifies that an individual’s activity preferences or needs require further evaluation. This process ensures that the care plan is personalized to the resident’s unique preferences, abilities, and barriers, enhancing their quality of life through meaningful engagement. Here’s how the Activities CAA influences care planning:
- Detailed Assessment: The CAA prompts the care team to assess the resident’s
- Interests and preferences (e.g., cultural, spiritual, recreational).
- Functional abilities (e.g., mobility, dexterity).
- Cognitive and emotional status (e.g., memory, mood).
- Barriers to participation (e.g., sensory impairments, health conditions).
- Individualized Goal Setting: The care team develops person-centered goals that align with the resident’s interests and needs.
- Customized Interventions: Based on the assessment, interventions are written to address barriers and promote activity engagement.
- Collaboration: The interdisciplinary team ensures all aspects of the resident’s needs are considered, involving activity staff, nursing, therapy, and social services.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment: Participation and satisfaction with activities are regularly reviewed, and the care plan is updated as needed.
Below are some examples of how using the activity CAA can help to write goals and interventions that are individualized for the residents:
Goals:
- General Engagement
- I will participate in one activity of preference (e.g., music therapy, gardening) at least two times per week to enhance emotional well-being
- Social Interaction
- I will join at least one group activity weekly to reduce isolation and promote social engagement
- Cognitive Stimulation
- I will complete one cognitive activity (e.g., puzzles, memory games) daily to support cognitive function
- Physical Activity
- I will engage in seated exercise sessions twice weekly to improve physical strength and mobility
- Mood Improvement
- I will engage in reminiscence therapy sessions once weekly to enhance mood and self-esteem
Interventions:
- Adapted Activities
- Provide large-print materials or audio versions of books for visually impaired residents
- Use adaptive tools for arts or crafts for residents with limited dexterity.
- Tailored Scheduling
- Schedule activities during times when the resident is most alert and engaged (e.g. morning time for those with dementia)
- 1-on-1 Engagement
- Offer personalized activities such as reminiscing with photo albums or listening to preferred music for residents who prefer individual attention
- Facilitating Participation
- Ensure staff assistance is available to transport the residents to activity locations or help them participate
- Social Opportunities
- Pair residents with similar interests for small-group activities or buddy systems
- Therapeutic Activities
- Incorporate music, pet, or art therapy sessions for residents who benefit from non-verbal or creative outlets
By creating goals and interventions focused on the resident’s unique needs, the care plan helps support meaningful participation in activities, improving their overall well-being and quality of life.
Written by:
Jessica Miller, RN, RAC-CT
Clinical Consultant
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