LAAS Clients navigating through COVID-19
8 weeks ago, the announcement of COVID and the related restrictions provided new challenges to LAAS, staff and especially clients. With the support of the entire LAAS team has been able to move through COVID with ingenuity and positivity.
Many changes have been made during this period, the most significant being the temporary closure of the LAAS Day Options programme.
Social and community participation play a large part in many client goals and LAAS recognises the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle. Within days of the Day Options closure, LAAS staff developed programs which worked within the limitations of social distancing. Clients also gave their input as to which activities were to be included in the activity planners so that they were still meeting goals, maintaining skills and developing new skills.
Some of the clients have chosen to plant gardens and have been working on developing their winter vegetable gardens. Fresh air, vitamin D and the development of fine gross motor skills are a bonus to the delicious vegetables that are being grown.
Other activities clients have been involved with are cooking, jigsaws, regular outings maintaining social distancing, daily walks, craft activities and activities that that appeal to clients’ personal interests.
Social media and technology have provided a way to stay in touch with family and friends, many clients have become quite proficient at using technology and have enjoyed learning new skills relating to IT. IT classes are an activity that have been flagged for when Day Options reopens later in the year with iPads purchased and IT specific programs being developed.
The re-opening of Day Options will provide many exciting changes, the closure has allowed LAAS undertake many renovations and develop a state-of-the-art sensory room.
