Failure to Provide Ongoing Activities Program for Residents with Memory Impairments
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide an ongoing program of activities to meet the interests and support the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of residents on one of four nursing units, specifically 8 North, which is a secure unit for residents with memory impairments such as Alzheimer's disease and non-Alzheimer's dementia. Review of the facility's assessment indicated a commitment to providing therapeutic recreation for this population. However, observations on the unit revealed that the only activity provided was folding towels in the morning, with no further recreational or structured activities observed throughout the day. The posted activities calendar for the month contained multiple blank days and vague entries such as 'TBA' (to be announced), with limited scheduled activities and many days lacking any planned events. Interviews with staff confirmed the lack of structured activities, with one activities employee stating that the calendar had been hastily prepared and acknowledging the absence of a comprehensive program. Further, there was no evidence of nursing staff engaging with residents in a non-clinical manner during the observed period. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the facility did not provide an ongoing program of activities to meet the needs of residents on the affected unit, as required by facility policy and state regulations.