Failure to Provide Individualized Activities for Dementia Residents in Memory Care Unit
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide an ongoing program of daily, individualized or group activities and meaningful engagement for residents with dementia residing on the secure memory care unit. Observations revealed that several residents were sitting in the common room without any music, television, or interactive activities occurring. Multiple interviews with family members and staff confirmed that there were no consistent activities provided for residents in the secure unit, with staff noting a lack of time and resources to conduct such activities. Family members reported never witnessing activities during their visits, and staff expressed concern about the absence of daily engagement, which they identified as important for redirecting and ensuring the safety of dementia residents. Documentation regarding activity participation for three sampled residents in the secure memory care unit was requested but not provided by the facility. Review of facility policies indicated that special considerations should be made for developing meaningful activities for residents with dementia and that appropriate treatment and services should be provided to meet their highest practicable well-being. Despite these policies, the facility did not demonstrate that activities were planned or implemented for residents in the secure memory care unit, leading to a deficiency in meeting their cognitive and psychosocial needs.