Improving meaningful activity and meaningful engagement for residents in long-term care settings

Abstract

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, restrictions were placed on social contacts and group activities in long-term care settings. Evidence has suggested that social isolation can lead to the onset of health issues including depression and cognitive decline in older people. This article details a quality improvement project undertaken by the managers of nine long-term care settings in Northern Ireland that aimed to enhance meaningful activity and meaningful engagement for residents following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. The findings suggest that improving meaningful activity and meaningful engagement can benefit residents in terms of nutrition and hydration, sleep patterns, use of medicines and number of falls.