Cohort 12 explored meaningful activities in their respective care settings for their quality improvement initiative. Sharing their ideas, resources and learning supported the group to move beyond initial concepts and expectations of what constitutes a meaningful activity, and view activities as a dynamic and important part of well-being.  

During ''Discovery work'' residents shared those activities 'were a bit of crack'', ''they help me feel calm'', and that ''I don't want to be involved but I like to be included''.  During ''Envision and Co-creation'' stages of the Appreciative Cycle the group considered that one size does not fit all in terms of meaningful activity, but by getting to know residents preferences, introducing choices, identifying language that helps residents take part, and engaging all staff in supporting activities to take place, the outcomes for residents can be profound.

The group found that meaningfully introducing activities can positively impact residents sleep patterns, reduce sundowning symptoms, improve eating and drinking, and reduce the numbers of falls occurring for many of their residents. The group were excited to share their findings at My Home Life Celebration event.

Cohort 12 also were curious about streamlining Respite paperwork and keen to develop existing systems and processes of arduous Respite paperwork for quality improvement initiative.  The group invited Lyn Buckley (RQIA) to explore this issue further and benefitted from insight on the importance of standards, professional requirements, and policies and procedures of the home around respite paperwork, as when and how to incorporate community care teams assessments and intermediary care plans.

The group moved beyond their initial concepts and expectations of Respite Paperwork processes and disseminated learning and good practice at the My Home Life Celebration Event with all care setting leaders in attendance.