NEWS

January 27, 2005

Bergen Regional Medical Center’s Long Term Care Unit Hosts 6th Annual Resident Variety Show

Laughter resonated through the halls of Bergen Regional Medical Center on January 20th, 2005 when BRMC’s Long Term Care Therapeutic Recreation Department hosted their annual Resident Variety Show, titled “We Are Family,” in honor of National Activity Professionals Week. Patients and residents, along with staff and visitors, enjoyed a showcase of performances by their peers. The event is one of many activities that the Long Term Care Therapeutic Recreation Department sponsors throughout the year.

“Our resident performers are a unique group, each with special qualities. It is very rewarding to see them take an active role in our Therapeutic Recreation programs which is a credit to the excellent job that our activity professional does,” said Vice President of Long Term Care Lowell Fein.
The Annual Variety Show, now in its 6th year, allows residents an opportunity to display their many talents. Performances included native dance sets from Korea and Latin America, song interpretations ranging from Sinatra to Opera Ilpalachi La Juva and even an original piano piece composed by one of the residents.

“The LTC staff encourages all of us here to continue doing the things we love. This new piano piece was inspired by the kind acts that I see in this hospital everyday,” said composer Benjamin Penney.

Resident Arnaldo Gonzalez agrees, “It is a great thing that the staff cares enough to help you overcome difficulties and encourage you to believe in yourself.”

The Variety Show finished with a special surprise from the Therapeutic Recreation staff. With smiles beaming from everyone across the room, the staff sang “We are Family” to the delight of the audience of patients, residents, other staff and family members in appreciation for the great performances of the day.

By incorporating fun healthy activities along with quality care, the patients and residents in LTC can enjoy interactions that lead to new and lasting friendships between themselves, residents and the staff that care for them. This is a one component to quality of life for the LTC residents.

The recreational activities for the LTC residents are provided by the Therapeutic Recreation Department to promote physical, social, cognitive and emotional well-being. Activity selections include daily exercise, physical games, arts and crafts and social events. Other innovative programs such as Snoezelen, WebTV, Horticultural Therapy, Community Involvement and various clubs and committees are also offered.