Following its success in Ayrshire and Arran, an award-winning pocket guide has been launched across Scotland.  The guide is primarily for care staff working with older people and gives tips for good quality, meaningful engagement and conversation. 

The easy-to-use pocket guide was developed by NHS Ayrshire and Arran Activity Team and endorsed by the Care Inspectorate.  It is divided into five sections: communication, games, physical activity, music and culture and wellbeing.

How we approach people matters, and how we help people engage in purposeful activity is important. Every moment we have to offer older people in a meaningful experience is valuable. It promotes increased self-esteem, reduces risk of low mood, and empowers people to achieve their goals.

You can download the pocket guide here.

For more information and to watch a short video on the guide and how it can benefit older people, visit www.nhsaaa.net/activelyengaged/pocketideas.aspx