Keeping clients or residents engaged in a regular activity routine is meant to keep them healthy. However, sometimes, things just don’t go as planned; either they’re not in the mood to participate, want to do something different, or you’re not getting the intended results.

Whatever the case may be, this can feel a bit frustrating. But instead of focusing on the negative outcome, start focusing on what went wrong and finding a solution that works. Read on as we explore some practical steps to handling disengagement in any care setting, from home care to assisted living facilities.

Step 1: Identify red flags

Avoiding eye contact, sitting passively without joining in, or even leaving the area are clear signs that they’re just not interested in the activity. But there are also subtle signs of disinterest, even when clients participate as some appear unmotivated or aren’t fully invested.

You can also tell an activity isn’t working when there are frequent disruptions or confusion. You’ll notice when the residents find it difficult to understand instructions and struggle to follow along. Either the directions weren’t explained well or the activity is too complex that it doesn’t fit their cognitive abilities.

Step 2: Talk to your care team and clients

Now that you know an activity isn’t getting anyone excited, it’s time to find out why. Start by gathering insights from your care team and clients.

Allow your staff to openly communicate their opinions with you during your one-on-one meetings. Then, encourage them to ask for client feedback. These valuable insights can directly show you what’s not working and why. If there’s consistent negative feedback, take this as a sign to switch things up.

Step 3: Reassess the activity

Just because an activity isn’t working doesn’t mean you should give up altogether. You can always make adjustments.

Check if the activity’s objectives are clear, realistic, or accessible for all clients, including those who may have limited abilities to participate actively. Reassess if the activity is also suitable for the client’s age and interests.

The time or day or the environment also plays an important role in their level of participation. Is it too early for the activity? Are they comfortable enough to move around in the current weather?

Step 4: Adjust or replace ineffective activities

There are various practical ways to improve activities to encourage more clients to participate.

Switch up the structure. Help your clients break free from their usual routine by introducing interesting activities. A simple tweak, such as shortening the duration or putting a simple twist into a common game is sure to keep participants on the edge of their seats. This can make the activity less overwhelming and more enjoyable.

Change the dynamics. Things can get more interesting when there are new faces joining the fun. Consider inviting a new mix of participants or different care staff to facilitate the session. Experimenting with different facilitators can help you determine what energy or approach resonates better with your clients.

Brighten up the environment. Prep the environment. Rearrange seating, brighten up the room, and reduce noise levels, then observe how participants respond to these changes.

Know your audience. Perhaps some of the activities don’t interest the participants because it isn’t something they enjoy. Instead of doing the same generic activities, introduce new activities that suit their hobbies and interests. You can even try something more collaborative, interactive, or creative apart from usual cognitive activities.

Step 5: Apply strategies to prevent future problems

Create a flexible plan. Develop an activity plan that allows quick changes just in case something isn’t working. This proves to be helpful when managing diverse needs and interests in any setting, from home care to care facilities.

Regularly check activity. Set up periodic reviews of each activity to make sure it’s still meeting its objectives. You can make these reviews quarterly or monthly, depending on the frequency of the activity.

Maintain a feedback culture. Keeping communication lines open between you and your staff will help you prevent potential issues. Identifying them early can help you and your care team spot problems and make improvements to maintain your client’s well-being.

Feel free to use this guide whenever you find yourself struggling to maintain engagement within your care community. By recognizing when activities aren’t working, assessing the underlying causes, and involving both staff and clients in the problem-solving process, you can create a more adaptable and thriving environment.