Upcoming Events
◂ March 2026Activities Professionals - Team Training with Cat Selman
Activities Professionals - Team Training with Cat Selman3/19/20269am4pm
Venue
Holy Cross Health Care Center
357 Island Pond Road
Manchester, NH
Manchester, NH
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A day of programming appropriate for those new to Activities and seasoned pros – Cat Selman will provide all with new perspectives and information that will enhance your ability to care for residents AND yourself! These topics are appropriate for both Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) & Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs). While the framework for some of these programs is rooted in the CMS survey process, the core information about resident care is applicable to ALFs as well.
Cat’s Topics Include:
Connecting Minds: Creative Care for Residents with Dementia
Caring for residents with dementia requires more than just technical expertise; it demands creativity, patience, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges they face. Cat provides a dynamic and interactive session designed to equip staff with practical, evidence-based strategies to improve communication, reduce agitation, and foster meaningful participation among residents with varying stages of dementia. Dementia often creates barriers to traditional communication, making it difficult for residents to express their needs and emotions. This session provides innovative tools and techniques to overcome these barriers, helping staff deliver personalized care that enhances both the quality of life for residents and the satisfaction of caregivers. Through a combination of verbal and non-verbal strategies, redirection techniques, and activity adaptations, staff will be empowered to create a more positive, enriching environment that encourages engagement, reduces stress, and builds connections with residents.their own health.
Choices that Matter: Empowering Residents Every Day
Every day, residents in long-term care settings face a delicate balance between receiving necessary care and maintaining their independence. Choices That Matter: Empowering Residents Every Day is designed to help staff at all levels enhance the quality of care by focusing on the empowerment and autonomy of residents. This session provides essential tools and strategies to transform routine care into personalized, meaningful experiences that promote dignity, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Through this interactive, solution-focused training, staff will gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact that respecting resident preferences can have on both emotional and physical health. Research shows that when residents are given choices and a voice in their care, they experience improved outcomes, greater satisfaction, and a more positive quality of life. By shifting from a task-focused approach to one centered around the individual, staff will be empowered to create an environment where residents feel truly valued and respected.
What Can We Learn from the Most-Cited Activity Deficiencies in 2025
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state health departments regularly cite nursing homes for deficiencies related to the well-being and treatment of residents. These deficiencies often cover issues that lead to psychosocial harm, such as emotional distress, social isolation, or poor mental health outcomes for residents. This session will address the top 10 deficiencies related to psychosocial harm that were commonly cited in nursing homes in 2025. These deficiencies, which were typically coded under F-Tags, specifically F600- F629, for psychosocial well-being, aim to ensure that nursing homes meet the necessary standards to promote residents’ dignity, emotional health, and overall14. 15. 16. quality of life. Cat will be sharing insight to the findings and providing common-sense operational strategies to address the potential deficient practices.
Beyond the Walls: Bringing the Community In
Residents in long-term care and assisted living settings often experience isolation, which can negatively affect their physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. By creating meaningful connections between residents and the broader community, we can foster a sense of purpose, belonging, and engagement. This is an interactive session designed to equip staff with the tools and strategies needed to design and implement safe, engaging, and sustainable community outreach programs that bring together residents, families, local organizations, and civic groups. We will explore the power of intergenerational experiences, volunteerism, and community partnerships in enriching the lives of residents. Participants will learn how to break down the walls of the facility, build lasting connections with the local community, and introduce programs that engage residents in ways that are both meaningful and enjoyable. These efforts will not only improve social, emotional, and cognitive well-being but also strengthen the facility’s reputation and presence within the broader community.
Earning the Respect You Deserve: Professional Empowerment for Activities Departments
“I don’t get the same respect as the D.O.N.” “I’m at the bottom of the totem pole.” “The only reason we have a Social Worker or Activity Director is because the government requires it!” If you’ve ever felt undervalued or overlooked in your role, you’re not alone. Research shows that confidence and professional self-image play a critical role in how others perceive your leadership. Many Social Workers and Activity Professionals unintentionally downplay their expertise, which can impact how colleagues and administrators respond to them. This empowering session is designed to change that narrative. Participants will learn practical strategies to project confidence, strengthen professional identity, and command respect within the interdisciplinary team. From education and training to communication, appearance, and interpersonal skills – every detail contributes to how you’re perceived. It’s time to shift from “paraprofessional” to professional leader.
Elevate your presence and enhance your credibility. You’ve got the education, the heart, and the expertise – now it’s time to make sure everyone else knows it. Walk away inspired, equipped, and ready to command the respect you deserve!
NHHCA Members: $125/1st attendee from facility * $100/each additional attendee
Non-Members: $150/1st attendee from facility * $130 each additional attendee
Interested in attending Cat Selman’s Social Services Professional Training on March 18th? Add this day for $100(Members) or $130 (Non-members). Program description at www.nhhca.org.