Based on the old “fishing game, clients “fish” apples from the floor using magnetic fishing rod. Each apple is marked on the back with “Action”; “Question” or “Rotten Apple, Pick again”. Once an apple is picked the facilitator asks the participant to undertake a task in relation to the apple they picked. I.E. if a participant picked “Question” the facilitator would ask a question; if a participant picked “Action” the facilitator would ask the participant to complete an action eg put your hands on your head. If the participant picks “Rotten Apple, Pick again”; they will need to pick another apple and complete that task. Having the three headings allows you to tailor each question or action to a participants capabilities.
Activity Goals:
Enjoyment/ Entertainment
Engagement
Reminiscence
Socialisation
Hand eye coordination
Mental stimulation
Suggested Duration:
30 minutes (can be adjusted accordingly dependent on how the game is progressing with the clients)
Safety/Precautions
Ensure activity is undertaken seated. Ensure clients are not over reaching for the “apples”. Stand by assist.
Venue Location:
Lounge/ Activity room – or other room with sufficient space for client numbers and to setup furniture in a horseshoe or circle proximal to the apples.
Group Size: 10-12
Target Group – activity can be modified to suit variable needs. We run this activity successfully with people with moderate to severe dementia.
Equippment Required:
• Magnetic fishing rods
• Paper Apples (you can print these from the internet and attach a paper clip to make them magnetic)
• List of Question/ Action prompts suitable for your group
Activity Plan
1) Setup room (ideally circle or horseshoe arrangement)
2) Setup equipment/ discuss with assistant roles & responsibilities during activity.
3) Assist clients to be seated
4) Introduce yourself
5) Introduce/ explain activity
6) Demonstrate activity using the following steps:
i) Pick up apple with magnetic fishing rod
ii) Ask your assistant to read the back of the apple and allocate you a question or action.
iii) Complete question/ task you were given.
7) Assist clients to participate one at a time.
Provide prompts / re-demonstrate the activity as per point 6
Other variations:
You could adjust the game to any time of year for example fishing for hearts,; shamrocks, pancakes, presents.