Halloween Highlights at Long Term Care Centers

October 30, 2020

In the face of the pandemic, long term care communities have had to find innovative ways to keep residents engaged – and Halloween is no exception.

See how five long term care facilities have turned a tricky situation into a Halloween treat:

  • A Halloween parade – at a distance
    Nursing homes like Golden Oaks Village are encouraging community members to dress up and showcase their costumes to residents by waving through windows or driving by. “Just to see the joy on their faces… and just to know that people outside remember and care about them, and they are not forgotten, means so much,” says Kristine Redd, one of the organizers. Read the full story here. 
  • A very hairy Halloween
    Welty Home had to forego its traditional Trick or Treat party for the children and grandchildren of residents and staff. However, several nurses found another way to cheer up residents: dressing up pets and bringing them in as a surprise. Read the full story here.
  • Pumpkin decorating
    Hometown Manor Assisted Living posed its first annual pumpkin decorating challenge to the broader Glasgow and Russellville communities. Residents will vote on pumpkins submitted by individuals, families and businesses for the winner. Watch a video about the competition here
  • Star turns in an original Halloween movie
    Several Riverside Rest Home residents starred in a Halloween movie based on a true story about the property. The film was shot using a green screen to make it appear as though the actors were performing together, and the movie – which can be screened in residents’ rooms – includes a blooper reel to boot. Read the full story here.
  • A not-so-spooky scarecrow competition
    Every Sunny View Nursing Home staff member created their own scarecrow to delight residents in need of a pick-me-up. From a scarecrow playing bingo to a “Singing in the Rain” homage, residents have quite the selection from which to choose their favorite. Read the full story and see photos here.