Authors: (including presenting author): :
Lau OL, Ho KH, Chan SF, Wong F, Yeung YM and Li KY
Affiliation: :
Geriatric Day Hospital, Department of Rehabilitation and Extended Care, TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital
Introduction: :
Hong Kong is one of the places in the world facing a serious ageing population problem. In 2016 Population By-census, 15.9% of total population was over aged 65 Wong Tai Sin district has highest older population (17.2%) in Hong Kong.
Traditionally, Geriatric Day Hospital (GDH) provides assessment and treatment program by multidisciplinary professional team. We also have a mission to expand our services to community level. Some studies showed that elderly have benefit from exposure to nature and time spent on outdoor. Therefore, we take a step forward to arrange outdoor activity for our solitary elderly in September 2019.
Objectives: :
1. To improve communication between solitary elderly.
2. To provide cognitive and reminiscence therapy to solitary elderly
3. To increase the job satisfaction of GDH staff.
Methodology: :
To achieve our mission, we should consider target participants, destination place, transportation and planned activities. The target participants should attend GDH regularly and live alone in Wong Tai Sin District. The destination place should be accessible, convenient and safe. The car park is nearby where elderly can walk safely to the place. Site visit was arranged. We have own rehabilitation buses for this outdoor activities. Two staff were arranged to escort solitary elderly to destination place. Safety is our main concern. Briefing and training was given to the staff before the activities.
It is believed that fun games can inspire them to pursue enjoyable pastimes that make them laugh. We choose some fun games which has element of cognitive and reminiscence therapy. It helps them to recall their memories which may strengthen their present ability to face the life.
Result & Outcome: :
We arranged one outdoor activity for ten solitary elderly in September 2019. We chose a nearby restaurant in Wong Tai Sin District since they enjoy Chinese food very much. Besides eating, they play card games which can enhance their calculation skills. The staff also conducted reminiscence therapy to solitary elderly. It arouses their memories in their heart. They enjoy the times with the staff and other elderly. It is full of their laugh and happiness.
We will continue this dream and arrange more different indoor and outdoor therapeutic activities for the elderly in the near future.
