Transforming lives, one Activity Program Box at a time: Inside a unique program at Extendicare Athabasca

Led by Nadine Miller, the Recreation Programs Manager at Extendicare Athabasca in Alberta, the Activity Program Boxes program is enhancing the quality of life for residents through purposeful engagement.

Extendicare Athabasca’s Activity Program Boxes were created to offer residents meaningful, personalized engagement based on their unique needs, abilities and interests. Designed to create a positive environment, the boxes have also helped to reduce responsive behaviors, depression, and isolation, while promoting better sleep and enhancing mental and social stimulation. Each box focuses on a specific area of therapeutic engagement:

Relaxation box: Encourages self-expression through art to foster a sense of accomplishment, boost self-esteem, enhance mood, and increase social interaction

Redirecting and attention box: Provides tactile engagement, helping reduce restlessness, wandering, and agitation

Fine motor box: Supports hand and wrist movement, to improve grip and dexterity

Sensory stimulation box: Engages the senses to promote relaxation, reflection, conversation, and reminiscence

“I love the idea of using recreational activities to enhance people’s quality of life. It’s rewarding to be part of this remarkable journey,” says Nadine – who earned a degree in Physical Therapy in the Philippines, before continuing her education in Canada to become a Certified Health Care Aide, Physical Therapy Aide, and Recreation Program Leader.

Team effort, remarkable impact

The success of the Activity Program Boxes is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire Athabasca team. Team members across different disciplines came together to develop the program. These therapeutic activities are available to team members, residents, and family members throughout the week. The impact has been remarkable: residents are more engaged, less anxious, and experiencing a renewed sense of purpose.