Tiana H

LEI 4724

Table Ball
Source: Natasha Pokorny of Nesconset Nursing Center, January 31, 2000

Size: 10-20

Equipment: Tables that line up together and a ball (preferably a bright color)..

Description:

Place tables end to end (enough to fit about 10 or more people all the way around).

Place the ball in front of one of the residents and tell him/her to roll it to someone else at
the table but it can't be the same person

Encourage each resident to keep the ball moving on the table.

Leadership: Objective of table ball is to improve hand eye coordination, socialization, and
attention span Not all Alzheimer residents can play this game depending on what stage of
Dementia they have. Place those more capable next to someone who might have difficulty
and encourage them to help each other. This increases the socialization. Call out names
often to refocus the group into the activity.

Children with cerebral palsy could also benefit from the activity due to their muscle
spasticity. Adaptations can be made by changing the size of the ball for easier control