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244 Page 2. <br /> apparent to committee members as a result of these monthly visits. Over the <br /> last two years, observation and discussion have elicited a number of needs <br /> these clients have that do not appear to be satisfactorily met by currently <br /> available resources. Requests (see attached) are made on almost every <br /> D.H.C.A.C. visit for assistance in increasing activities for the residents. <br /> Less than 15% of the clients attend or are eligible to attend day programs and <br /> few have regular contact with family or friends. Appropriate utilization of <br /> community volunteers requires the existence of training, supervision, and <br /> emotional support to insure success and continuity. A framework for this is <br /> not available to domiciliary residents. <br /> Meeting these needs through the development and implementation of a well- <br /> designed activities program is a priority goal of the Orange County D.H.C.A.C. <br /> These needs are: <br /> 1. The need to be involved in a community. Whether the community is as <br /> small as one's residence, one's workplace, or the larger community, a <br /> sense of involvement is a basic need. Older and disabled people are often <br /> overlooked in group and community involvement because of the challenge of <br /> individualizing recreational activities. These persons, too, need to feel <br /> that they have a place and value in their community. An Activities <br /> Facilitator would be able to encourage and facilitate the residents <br /> involvement in small and large group activities that would provide a <br /> foundation for individuals to become more involved in their community. <br /> 2. The need to occupy much expanded free time in more satisfactory ways. The <br /> most typical complaint of residents and administrators alike is that of <br /> the resident's boredom. This often signifies few activity choices and <br /> "too much time on their hands." A visitor to a domiciliary home can't <br /> help but notice the many residents who sit and stare at the TV for hours <br /> with only their meals and sleeping breaking up their day. Having a <br /> satisfying routine, enjoying oneself, being involved in stimulating <br /> activities, all contribute to a more positive self-concept and <br /> satisfactory life. Breaking out of the old pattern of non-activity into a <br /> more well-balanced pattern often requires the intervention and guidance of <br /> a specially trained person. An Activities Facilitator, by virtue of <br /> training and experience, would have the skills necessary to guide <br /> residents into more active participation. <br /> 3. The need to enjoy companionship and social interaction. Social <br /> interaction is a basic need and manifested in a variety of ways: the <br /> expressed joy of having a family member visit (often a rarity), coming up <br /> and touching a new visitor, smiles exchanged with fellow residents. <br /> Companionship and friendship make one feel valued. Without opportunities <br /> for this, withdrawal, illness, and depression can negatively impact on an <br /> individual. An Activities Facilitator would provide diverse opportunities <br /> (incorporating volunteers and students) for large and small group <br /> activities in which residents would be able to establish new friendships, <br /> share experiences with others, and interact with people having similar <br /> needs and interests. <br /> 4. The need for recognition as an individual. When someone speaks to you by <br /> name, establishes eye contact, or touches your arm in greeting, one feels <br />