A broad range of programs is directed by the activities coordinator. A home certified for Medicare and Medicaid must have someone designated as an activities coordinator. The planning and implementation of activities comes from requests by residents, families, staff, and volunteers. The activities are usually posted on a calendar of events that is available to each resident and also posted in large print where a wheelchair-bound resident can easily see it. Families and friends may be invited to participate.
Volunteers often help to bring residents to the party and join in the fun.
Celebrations of various holidays , both secular and religious. Holidays are particularly difficult times for those away from their own homes, families, and friends. Valentine's Day, Halloween, Christmas, Hannukah, Easter, and Memorial Day are a few examples. Musical events can be enjoyed actively or passively depending on the abilities of the residents. Many homes have sing-alongs in which the residents request their favorite songs and sing along with a leader.