What is Connecting?
Connecting with residents improves their mealtime experience.
It only takes a moment and it improves food intake, health and quality of life.
Connecting is feeling a sense of togetherness and belonging with others.
When residents feel included and welcome, Connecting is easy.
What does Connecting look like?
In this video, George reaches out to team members during a meal. Something is making his mealtime unpleasant. What does he need? How does Sue, the personal support worker, Connect with him?
This video has no sound.
How can you Connect?
Sitting down with residents
Giving residents your full attention
Making eye contact with residents
Asking residents questions
Smiling
Being emotionally present
Explaining what you are going to do before you do it
Looking for shared experiences and interests
Greeting residents by their name
Allowing residents to sit for as long as they need
Using a light touch with residents
Introducing people to one another