Troubleshooting
- Problem: Resident does not participate.
Solution: Even if a person is not performing the exercise with the class, they may be benefiting from the calm atmosphere. If a second person is available, they may sit next to the resident and assist the resident with their own hands to guide the movement pattern. They may also use props such as foam balls to help the participant with the exercises. - Problem: Resident comes to class and sits quietly but only occasionally follows any of the exercises.
Solution: Try to engage the resident by using her name and making eye contact. Otherwise as long as she is quiet and seems to be enjoying herself she may very well be achieving the desired calming effect. - Problem: The resident begins to wander during class.
Solution: Attempt to engage the resident. If a second person is available they may also attempt to work with the resident. If the resident is not disruptive allow them to come and go as they like. If the resident does become disruptive the best thing to do is have him or her escorted to a more appropriate setting. Another day, this may not be a problem. You may also try having him/her attend a class at a different time of day. - Problem: The resident wants to follow the exercises in standing but he or she has momentary lapses of balance during some of the routines.
Solution: If you have another staff member in the room, have them stand close to the resident for guarding or have the resident sit for these exercises. Also, consider having a physical therapy consult to see if a short period of active one-on-one physical therapy performing the exercises in front of a mirror in the parallel bars will help. - Problem: The resident has weakness in one arm from a previous stroke and has trouble performing the movements.
Solution: Although the exercises are done bilaterally, allow the resident do as much as possible. You may even see some improvement. You may also have an assistant work with the resident. If family members are available they work well as assistance. Also, consider having a physical therapy consult to see if a short period of active one-on-one physical therapy performing the exercises in front of a mirror will help. - Problem: Staff is in short supply to run a standing program.
Solution: If adequate staff in not available to guard residents during a standing routine, much of the benefits of the class may be achieved during the sitting routine. Families, volunteers, and students may also be recruited to assist with the program. As a third option, if two people are available to run the session, one staff person could lead the class and the other person could complete an exercise in standing individually with residents who are able.
