Friday, October 22, 2010

What are 'meaningful activities'?

This side box was in the Lambeth report. Some of the things I agree with, some I'm not so sure about. I mean, you can't define meaningful by saying it is meaningful to the person - it circuitous, because it still doesn't say what's meaningful. What is genuinely enjoyable - and is enjoyment necessary for meaning, or is just things that provoke us to action or thought (enjoyable, frustrating, or interesting)? Where are the dividing line between what you or I might find meaningful, and what each individual with PIMD might find meaningful (does it always need to have a community parameter?)
What do you think? Have you seen any better definitions of meaningful activities
What are ‘meaningful activities’?
• They are stimulating and meaningful to the individual.
• People’s physical and health needs are supported in a dignified manner.
• The person can access the community by taking part in activities that they find genuinely enjoyable.
• They recognise that many people with PMLD experience the world largely on sensory level and take this into account.
• People are included in community activities in ways that are meaningful to each person.
• Manual handling policy and practice don’t act as a barrier to the person taking part in community activities.
• They recognise the importance of one-to-one interaction, with a workforce who are skilled in meeting complex health needs, and trained in nonformal communication techniques.
• Suitable and flexible transport is provided that enables people to physically move around their community.

New UK report: Lambeth PMLD project


I wish I didn't mention UK all the time - but that's where the info is coming from.
MENCAP have just come out with a new report that might be of interest.

Mencap has recently launched a report exploring the numbers and needs of people with PMLD in Lambeth. The report will not only help Lambeth Council and NHS Lambeth better plan for this part of the population, but the project and recommendations will help other local areas to focus on the needs of people with PMLD and ensure their plans are inclusive of those with the most complex needs.

Find out more and read the report http://www.mencap.org.uk/page.asp?id=19495