At RESTORE-Skills, we are committed to continuously innovating to serve you better and enhance patient care quality. I am excited to introduce you to our new Therapy EMR, RESTORE-Insights.

We believe it’s time for a change. RESTORE-Insights is the alternative the market has been waiting for—a fresh approach to therapy EMR that addresses the market’s pain points and challenges.

Here’s how RESTORE-Insights can benefit your organization:

• Streamlined Documentation: Say hello to autosave and goodbye to time-consuming data entry. RESTORE-Insights simplifies documentation, ensuring accurate and efficient record-keeping.

• Real-Time BI: With access to real-time actionable data, you can make informed decisions and gain valuable insights into patient progress, therapy outcomes, and facility performance, your BI dashboard are included.

• Customizable Solutions: RESTORE-Insights offers a flexible, customizable platform to meet your specific needs. We’re here to support your unique requirements and growth objectives.

• Enhanced Efficiency: Our platform boosts operational efficiency with streamlined workflows and reduced administrative overhead. It empowers your team to focus more on patient care and less on paperwork.

• Cost Savings: Reduce costs associated with documentation errors and administrative tasks. RESTORE-Insights optimize your resource allocation, making every dollar count.

• Collaborative Partnerships: Foster collaboration among therapy, nursing, and wellness teams. RESTORE-Insights creates a unified environment where all care providers work seamlessly toward shared patient goals.

Gear up, Activities Pros! It's time to cast into the vibrant world of Fishing Quest! This blog is your treasure map to discover why this game is a must-have in your activity toolkit, and how to make the most of it.

Five Reasons to Play

1.       Universal Accessibility: Fishing Quest is suitable for everyone, regardless of their gaming experience. Its inclusive design ensures all residents, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, can join in.

2.       Social Interaction: Fishing Quest naturally fosters social interaction. Residents can play together, share tips, and celebrate each other’s catches, strengthening community bonds.

3.       Interests and Learning: The game opens doors to learning about different fish species, ecosystems, and fishing techniques, appealing to residents with a love for nature and learning.

4.       Variety and Flexibility: With different levels and challenges, the game offers a variety of experiences. Residents can enjoy a casual play at their own pace or engage in more competitive, skill-based challenges.

5.       Memory Lane: Fishing Quest can be a nostalgic experience for many, recalling past fishing adventures. It’s a wonderful way to connect residents with their personal histories and spark conversations.
   

Five Ways to Play

1.       Fish Identification Workshop: Following gameplay, host a session on fish identification and interesting facts about each species found in the game. It can be both educational and a great conversation starter.

2.       Fishing Quest Storytelling: Invite residents to share their own fishing experiences or tall tales inspired by their gameplay. It’s a fantastic way to engage in storytelling and reminisce about past adventures.

3.       Fish-Themed Art Day: Organize an art day where residents can draw, paint, or craft the fish they’ve caught in the game. This activity encourages creativity and self-expression.

4.       ‘Fisherman’s Feast’ Themed Party: Host a themed party where the menu, decorations, and music revolve around a fishing theme, inspired by their virtual catches in Fishing Quest.

5.       Fishing Quest Picture Frames: Take pictures of residents playing the game and then have them create picture frames for the photos, fostering creativity and a sense of accomplishment.

Bring Fishing Quest into the mix and see how it transforms your community! These activities are all about connecting, sharing laughs, and building stronger bonds. Watch as each session fosters new friendships and shared experiences, catch by catch!

P.S. We'd love to hear about the creative ways you're using RESTORE-Wellness. Post in the RESTORE  Game Changers, skilled-care professional Facebook group and let the world see your genius!

Transform how residents receive care all while streamlining workflow with RESTORE’s innovative platform. Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Wellness demo.

Welcome to Fishing Quest, where fun gameplay aligns with therapeutic progress. We're uncovering how this game works on crucial skills for therapy patients, offering a unique blend of engagement and skill development for therapists across disciplines.

Balance and Bilateral Coordination

•         Occupational Therapy: Improves ability to perform tasks requiring coordinated use of both hands, like preparing meals or doing laundry.

•         Physical Therapy: Aids in developing stability and coordination necessary for climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or navigating uneven surfaces.

•         Speech-Language Pathology: The integration of cognitive-linguistic tasks supports abilities like following verbal instructions for daily self-care routines and effectively communicating needs and preferences.

Crossing the Midline

•         Occupational Therapy: Enhances the ability to perform tasks that require reaching across the body, like washing the opposite arm or leg or zipping a jacket.

•         Physical Therapy: Promotes flexibility and range of motion, critical for activities like exercising or vacuuming.

•         Speech-Language Pathology: Facilitates communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, aiding in conversational turn-taking comprehension like participating in group discussions or responding appropriately to family or caregivers.

Range of Motion

•         Occupational Therapy: Aids in increasing joint movement for activities like dressing, grooming, and other personal care activities.

•         Physical Therapy: Focuses on improving mobility for actions like bending or stretching, for daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, or reaching for items.

•         Speech-Language Pathology: Helps in facilitating breath control and posture for clearer speech, supporting tasks involving verbal communication, like phone conversations or asking for help.

Attention and Endurance

•         Occupational Therapy: Builds concentration for tasks such as managing finances or following recipes.

•         Physical Therapy: Develops stamina necessary for taking showers or grocery shopping without fatigue.

•         Speech-Language Pathology: Improves sustained attention for better comprehension and expression in conversations, like making appointments or community participation.

Eye-Hand Coordination and Motor Planning

•         Occupational Therapy: Essential for precise tasks like eating with utensils or brushing teeth.

•         Physical Therapy: Helps in activities requiring coordination, such as cooking or driving.

•         Speech-Language Pathology: Aids in the coordination of speech production and non-verbal communication, assisting in the management of technology for tasks like reading newspaper headlines or ads.

Fishing Quest is your new ally in therapy. By incorporating it into your sessions, you’re not just adding fun; you're enhancing skill-building in an exciting way. Let's leverage this game to inspire and progress our residents' journeys towards better health and independence.

Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Skills demo and experience a facility-wide commitment to skill building. 

Already part of RESTORE-Skills? Then join Game Changers, the skilled-care professional Facebook group!

In the world of elder care, the bonds between caregivers and residents go beyond professionalism—they are profound connections that shape life in senior living communities. The friends made in these communities hold a special place, and for those of us dedicated to elder care, their value is unmistakable. 

A Haven for Meaningful Connections

When we perceive senior living communities as small enclaves of remarkable individuals, these spaces transcend beyond mere residences. They become sanctuaries where a second family is discovered. The bonds formed between residents and caregivers are not just functional; they are integral, fostering genuine connections. It's through the commitment and dedication of the staff that an atmosphere is created, where these functional bonds transcend into meaningful friendships. This enrichment resonates emotionally and socially, creating a nurturing environment for both residents and caregivers alike.

Chair Yoga: Building Bridges Through Wellness

For caretakers, promoting well-being is key. Group Chair Yoga is an ideal bridge between physical health and community bonds. Beyond exercise, it fosters unity, with synchronized movements and collective breaths serving as conduits for meaningful connections, contributing to residents' physical health and catalyzing deeper relationships.

The Power of Shared Experiences

Group activities such as Chair Yoga for seniors provide benefits that extend beyond the physical realm. They create platforms for shared experiences, fostering community. For those in senior living communities, these moments are the heartbeat of caregiving, going beyond tasks to connect on a deeper level, reinforcing that caregiving is a calling to be present in lives entrusted to our care.

Discovering an old, new friend is a Valuable Treasure.

As caregivers, friends cultivated later in life in senior living communities are not just residents; they are individuals with stories and wisdom. These friendships enrich both residents' and caregivers' lives, contributing to a nurturing and fulfilling workplace culture.

Fostering Connections: Chair Yoga Classes as the Social Catalyst in Senior Living Communities

In the heart of senior living communities, my Chair Yoga video classes provide the perfect social setting for forging new friendships. Through shared experiences and gentle movements, we connect in synchronized breaths and laughter. These moments, rich with camaraderie, lay the foundation for lasting connections, showing that the beauty of friendship blossoms in the communal spirit of shared activities.

Blessings,

Sherry Zak Morris, Certified Yoga Therapist

Founder of Yoga Vista

P.S. We'd love to hear about the creative ways you're using RESTORE-Wellness. Post in the RESTORE  Game Changers, skilled-care professional Facebook group and let the world see your genius!

Transform how residents receive care all while streamlining workflow with RESTORE’s innovative platform. Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Wellness demo.

Welcome, Activities Professionals, to the season of sparkling lights, heartfelt traditions, and global celebrations! Let’s curate a tapestry of activities that honor the richness of holidays this month. From Hanukkah to the final countdown on New Year's Eve, here's how we can bring the joy of worldwide festivities to our community.

Hanukkah: Spinning the Dreidel of Tradition

Immerse your residents in the rich traditions of Hanukkah with a themed game night. Play our holiday games and then travel to Jerusalem and take part in our Scavenger Hunt.

Introduce dreidel spinning competitions, and engage everyone in crafting sessions to make their own dreidels and menorahs. Set up a storytelling circle where residents can share their Hanukkah stories, fostering warmth and community spirit.

Christmas: A Carol of Joy

Transform your community into a festive Christmas haven. Organize a Holiday Sing-A-Long on RESTORE-Wellness and set the stage for a heartwarming karaoke night. On Christmas Day, cozy up for a marathon of classic movies. Ensure everyone feels connected by arranging video calls for residents to send festive greetings to their loved ones.

Kwanzaa: Weaving a Tapestry of Heritage

Embrace the cultural significance of Kwanzaa by setting up an educational and interactive "Kwanzaa Corner." Use Visit Familiar Places to explore the continent of Africa. Each day, highlight one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa through engaging discussions, storytelling, and displays.

New Year's Eve: Toasting to Togetherness

Play the different decades of Trivia Night and discuss where your residents where at that time. Ring in the New Year with a "Resolution Tree" where residents can hang their wishes for the year ahead.

Memorable Moments Throughout the Month

 Be Buddy the Elf Day:
Channel the infectious energy of Buddy the Elf by playing holiday games on RESTORE. Encourage residents to embody the joy and enthusiasm of Buddy, by using or creating red or green controllers. Screen the movie "Elf" and spread laughter and Christmas cheer throughout your community.

Holiday Tournament:
Get into the competitive spirit with a holiday-themed games tournament. Hae your residents select the holiday games. Learn and encourage laughter and teamwork, ensuring that everyone joins in the fun.

Christmas Eve Cookies & Games: Invite residents to roll up their sleeves for a cookie decorating contest, with a spread of icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter for creative expression. Pair this with holiday-themed RESTORE games for an evening of strategy, fun, and festive teamwork

Let's make this December a celebration of global traditions, creating a journey through the holidays around the world right in our community. Engage the senses, honor traditions, and most importantly, foster the joy and togetherness that define this time of year. Here's to a month of wonder, warmth, and worldwide celebration!

P.S. We'd love to hear about the creative ways you're using RESTORE-Wellness. Post in the RESTORE  Game Changers, skilled-care professional Facebook group and let the world see your genius!

Transform how residents receive care all while streamlining workflow with RESTORE’s innovative platform. Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Wellness demo.

Game 1: Order Up

Brief Description:

Order Up is a game where players control a server to catch falling items in a specific order, using one or two controllers. It focuses on improving cognitive and physical coordination skills in a fun and interactive way.

Clinical Value:

This game enhances cognitive skills such as recall and scanning, and physical abilities like functional reach, balance, and mobility. It’s particularly effective for improving coordination and following directions.

Application in Therapy:

Physical Therapists (PTs): PTs can use Order Up to work on balance, functional reach, and mobility. It's beneficial for patients recovering from injuries or with movement disorders.

Occupational Therapists (OTs): OTs can utilize the game to improve hand-eye coordination, crossing the midline, and enhancing daily living skills like multitasking and quick decision-making.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs): SLPs can use Order Up to help clients with cognitive-communication skills, including processing speed, following multi-step directions, and enhancing attention.

Game 2: Kitchen Mixin'

Brief Description:

Kitchen Mixin' is an engaging game where players select and prepare recipes from a virtual cookbook. It's designed to improve cognitive skills and simulate cooking tasks.

Clinical Value:

This game boosts cognitive skills like attention, concentration, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. It also improves visual scanning, eye-hand coordination, and range of motion.

Application in Therapy:

Physical Therapists (PTs): PTs can use this game to enhance fine motor skills and upper limb range of motion, as well as standing balance and endurance during cooking tasks.

Occupational Therapists (OTs): Ideal for OTs to develop cognitive planning for cooking and daily living activities, as well as to improve task sequencing and organizational skills.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs): SLPs can focus on language comprehension and expression related to cooking, following recipes, and sequencing steps in cooking.

Game 3: Pill Skill

Brief Description:

Pill Skill is a game designed to mimic medication management by organizing pills in a specific sequence, enhancing recall and attention to detail.

Clinical Value:

This game is excellent for improving medication management skills, recall, scanning, functional reach, and attention to detail, key in cognitive therapy.

Application in Therapy:

Physical Therapists (PTs): PTs can use Pill Skill to assess and improve patients' dexterity and coordination, especially those recovering from hand injuries or with motor skill impairments.

Occupational Therapists (OTs): OTs can focus on fine motor skills, medication management training, and cognitive skills like planning and organization.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs): For SLPs, this game is a tool for cognitive-communication therapy, focusing on memory, sequence processing, and problem-solving skills.

Game 4: Safely Home

Brief Description:

Safely Home engages players in identifying and resolving safety hazards in a virtual home environment, enhancing safety awareness and problem-solving skills.

Clinical Value:

This game improves cognitive skills like attention, safety recognition, problem-solving, judgment, and decision-making, essential for independent living.

Application in Therapy:

Physical Therapists (PTs): PTs can use this game to teach safe mobility and balance strategies in different home environments.

 Occupational Therapists (OTs): OTs can employ the game to educate about household safety and adaptive strategies for independent living.

 Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs): SLPs can focus on improving understanding and expression of safety concepts, as well as enhancing problem-solving and reasoning abilities.

Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Skills demo and experience a facility-wide commitment to skill building. 

Already part of RESTORE-Skills? Then join Game Changers, the skilled-care professional Facebook group!

As therapists, our goal is to bridge the gap between therapy and everyday life, ensuring that our interventions translate into tangible benefits for our residents. RESTORE games are a pivotal tool in this mission, especially when it comes to honing a key skill: Sitting and Standing Activity Tolerance.

1.       Mobility for Greater Independence
   
   Mobility is the cornerstone of independence, and sitting and standing are actions that most residents perform multiple times a day. RESTORE games are designed to mimic these everyday movements, providing a safe and controlled environment to practice and improve. The repetitive nature of the games helps reinforce the neuromuscular pathways essential for these fundamental movements, paving the way for smoother transitions in real-world scenarios.

2.       Strength and Balance
   
   Strength and balance are the dynamic duo of fall prevention. Our games target the specific muscle groups and motor skills involved in posture and locomotion. As residents engage with the games, they are essentially participating in a form of resistance training, which can lead to increased muscle mass and better balance — both critical factors in reducing fall risk.

3.       Endurance for Daily Activities
   
   Activity tolerance is all about endurance. The more residents play, the more they can do. RESTORE games are cleverly designed to keep residents engaged for longer periods, helping to increase their cardiovascular and muscular stamina. This means residents can enjoy daily activities — from leisurely walks to gardening — with less fatigue.

4.       Tracking Progress

With our gaming platform, therapists can easily monitor a resident’s progress in activity tolerance. This data is invaluable in setting goals, adjusting care plans, and providing residents with visible proof of their improvements, which can be incredibly motivating.

5.       Adaptable to All Ability Levels

Every resident is unique, and so are their abilities. Each game can be tailored to meet a wide range of needs, ensuring that everyone can participate and reap the benefits, regardless of their starting point.

6.       Injecting Fun into Therapy

Let’s face it: therapy can be hard work. But when it’s game-based, it’s also fun! By turning therapy sessions into engaging and entertaining activities, you can improve resident participation and adherence to therapeutic programs. A resident who looks forward to therapy is a resident who is more likely to engage in it consistently and with effort.

7.       Promoting Holistic Well-being

Playing RESTORE games goes beyond physical health—it uplifts spirits and fosters a sense of accomplishment. It's about bringing smiles and a sense of community to residents, enhancing their overall well-being and enriching their daily lives.

 Incorporating RESTORE games into therapy sessions isn’t just a matter of providing entertainment — it's about offering a multifaceted approach to care that resonates on multiple levels. For therapists across all disciplines, these games represent a resource that can transform the therapeutic experience for our residents, making each session not just a step toward recovery, but a leap towards enriched living.

Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Skills demo and experience a facility-wide commitment to skill building. 

Already part of RESTORE-Skills? Then join Game Changers, the skilled-care professional Facebook group!

November marks a time of warmth and togetherness, presenting a perfect opportunity for Activities Professionals to bring a renewed sense of engagement and joy. With the RESTORE-Wellness Calendar as your ally, each day is a chance to weave RESTORE games into a fabric of fun, learning, and memorable experiences. Let’s maximize this month’s potential.

1.   Seamless Integration:

Enhance American Football Day by syncing "Football Frenzy" with a celebratory social hour, where residents can share their favorite game-day memories. It’s an excellent way to increase participation and social interaction among residents.

2.   Thematic Continuity:

For days like Cookie Monster's Birthday, why not play "Grocery Grab" beforehand to pick ingredients and bake together? It reinforces the theme and creates a tangible reward—delicious cookies!

3.   Educational Opportunities:

Geography Awareness Week turns educational by playing “Take Flight” and using Visit Familiar Places to visit airports in your area. Follow this by encouraging residents to recount personal travel stories, which supports cognitive engagement and reminiscence therapy.

4.   Emotional Connection:

Veterans Day is deepened by pairing "Veterans Trivia Night" with a heartwarming "Share Your Story" segment. This not only acknowledges their service but also validates their personal journeys.

5.   Cultural Celebration:

The "Turkey Hunt Challenge" on Thanksgiving can lead to an afternoon of sharing gratitude. It’s a moment to connect over shared histories and create new traditions within your community.

6.   Community Building: Spark collaboration with Puzzle Week. Play "Holiday Word Search" as a group and then set up a communal jigsaw puzzle station. It's a fulfilling way to encourage social bonding and gives a shared sense of accomplishment as the puzzle comes to life.

Expanding the Experience:

1.   Wellness Focus:

Health Day is more than just activity; it’s about holistic well-being. Start with "Grocery Grab" and evolve into a wellness workshop where nutrition meets physical activity, like chair yoga or guided meditation.

2.   Creative Expressions:

After exercising with Paul Eugene, introduce a digital storytelling workshop for Cyber Monday where residents can narrate their life highlights or create a community blog.

3.   Seasonal Festivities:

Capitalize on Fall Feast by hosting a cooking class post "Grocery Grab.” This not only teaches new skills but also results in a communal meal that celebrates the harvest and flavors of fall.

 November brings a treasure trove of opportunities for Activities Professionals to curate a month brimming with excitement, growth, and togetherness. With the RESTORE-Wellness Calendar activities and games as your canvas, paint a November filled with rich experiences that resonate with every resident!

P.S. We'd love to hear about the creative ways you're using RESTORE-Wellness. Post in the RESTORE  Game Changers, skilled-care professional Facebook group and let the world see your genius!

Transform how residents receive care all while streamlining workflow with RESTORE’s innovative platform. Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Wellness demo.

In the realm of skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, where our primary goal is to enhance the well-being and vitality of seniors, the concept of actively aging takes center stage. Much like the wear and tear on a tire accumulating over time, the aging process can take its toll on our residents.

However, what if there was a way to engage in actively aging, slowing down the impact of aging and preserving strength, flexibility, and overall wellness? This is where the practice of Chair Yoga becomes a transformative tool.

In the enchanting universe of Dr. Seuss, characters navigate peculiar challenges with resilience and humor. Similarly, aging can be an extraordinary adventure, and the practice of Chair Yoga allows seniors to approach this journey with empowerment.

Now, at 68, I've observed the transformative effects of Chair Yoga on our seniors. Here are the principles for helping your residents to age well.

1. Activity for Empowerment
   "You're Only Old Once," but you can stay young at heart.

Regular physical activity is essential for the health and independence of our residents. Chair Yoga, tailored for all ages, becomes a gentle yet effective means to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.

2. Breathe for Vitality
   "You're Only Old Once," but your breath can change everything.

In the world of Dr. Seuss, a deep breath often signifies overcoming challenges. Deep breathing in Chair Yoga reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and enhances oxygen flow to the brain and body.

3. Mindfulness for Serenity
   "You're Only Old Once," but mindfulness keeps you in the moment.

Promoting mindfulness among our residents is a crucial aspect of enhancing well-being. Mindfulness reduces stress, improves mood, and fosters a sense of serenity, allowing them to navigate their environment gracefully.

4. Connection for Joy
   "You're Only Old Once," but you never have to be alone.

Social connections are vital for mental and emotional health. Chair Yoga classes provide physical activity and create a supportive, non-judgmental space for meaningful relationships to flourish.

As we facilitate the aging journey, let's remember that our residents are only Old Once. Through years of observing our Chair Yoga sessions, I've realized that happiness is a choice. In the world of Dr. Seuss, it's similar to choosing whimsy over grumpiness.

Chair Yoga empowers residents to radiate positivity, embrace life's quirks, and continue their adventure with a twinkle in their eyes. Age is merely a number; the attitude with which they embrace it genuinely shapes their journey.

P.S. We'd love to hear the benefits of Chair Yoga you have discovered. Post in the RESTORE  Game Changers, skilled-care professional Facebook group and let the world see your genius!

Transform how residents receive care all while streamlining workflow with RESTORE’s innovative platform. Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Wellness demo.

Tackling ADLs Through Trivia

1. Dressing

Trivia Connection: The "70s, 80s, and 90s" categories can stimulate memories of past fashion trends. This reminiscence can motivate residents to dress themselves, prompting discussions about clothing choices from those eras and integrating dressing practice.

2. Grooming & Personal Hygiene

Trivia Connection: The "Classic Movies" category can inspire residents to discuss iconic movie stars and their grooming styles. Residents might be inclined to emulate their favorite celebrities, encouraging grooming routines like combing hair or washing their faces.

3. Eating

Trivia Connection: The "Food" category can trigger appetites and memories of favorite meals. These memories can be an opportune moment for OTs to work on hand coordination, using utensils, and discussing healthy eating habits.

4. Mobility & Transferring

Trivia Connection: In the heat of the game, patients often reach out, move slightly, or adjust their seating. The subtle physical actions incorporated in the game mechanics can be amplified and directed towards improving mobility and transferring from one position or place to another.

Maneuvering IADLs Through Trivia

1. Cooking & Meal Preparation:

Trivia Connection: The "Food" category can lead to discussions about recipes, ingredients, and cooking methods. Encourage patients to discuss and plan meals, potentially leading to cooking activities under supervision.

2. Communication Management:

Trivia Connection: The "Food" category can lead to discussions about recipes, ingredients, and cooking methods. Encourage patients to discuss and plan meals, potentially leading to cooking activities under supervision.

3. Managing Finances:

Trivia Connection: Categories like "Retro Games" or "Sports" can lead to questions about the cost of items or events in the past, initiating conversations about budgeting, inflation, and the value of money.

4. Safety Awareness & Home Management:

Trivia Connection: The "Discharge to Home" category is a goldmine. Therapists can use this section to discuss potential hazards in the home, safety protocols, and adaptations necessary for a secure living environment. It emphasizes the vital skills and awareness that residents need once they're discharged, ensuring they can handle daily tasks confidently and safely.

Trivia Night is more than a game – it’s a bridge to real-world skills, encompassing ADLs and IADLs. The trick lies in drawing connections between the trivia categories and daily tasks, making rehabilitation essential and engaging. Give it a try and discover the therapeutic wonders of Trivia Night!

Click Here to schedule a RESTORE-Skills demo and experience a facility-wide commitment to skill building. 

Already part of RESTORE-Skills? Then join Game Changers, the skilled-care professional Facebook group!