Diane

The Importance Of A Thank-You Note

August 10, 2019 by Diane Leave a Comment

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importance of thank-you notes

Many of you know that my daughter, Sarah, works as a physical therapist in Minnesota. Last weekend she came home for a visit, and we talked about some challenges we experience as healthcare professionals.

Then Sarah showed me a note she received in the mail from one of her former patients. Besides expressing thanks for the excellent care Sarah provided, he also noted that much of his rapid recovery resulted from Sarah’s kindness and encouragement.

The note meant so much to my daughter. As Sarah described it, “This is the reason I decided to become a physical therapist.”

What You Need To Know When A Resident Hoards

August 7, 2019 by Diane Leave a Comment

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hoarding in the nursing home

According to the American Psychiatric Association, 2-6% of the U.S. population exhibit a hoarding disorder. This tendency doesn’t suddenly disappear when a person enters a senior living community. So, if you’ve worked in eldercare for any length of time, I’m sure you’ve encountered hoarding.

What is hoarding?

Hoarding goes far beyond being a messy person. We often define it as the excessive collection and retention of things until they interfere with day-to-day functions.

This Hospice Volunteer Has A Big Heart For Nursing Home Residents

August 4, 2019 by Diane Leave a Comment

Early last month, I traveled to Hillsboro, North Dakota to visit with a delightful woman named Clarice Satrom. We met to talk about her experiences as a hospice volunteer in a nursing home.

People often wonder why someone needs hospice services when they’re already living in a nursing home. After all, when we think of hospice we usually picture caregivers going into private homes to provide services for people who are terminally ill.

Yet, it’s important to remember that the nursing home is the resident’s home. At the end of life, people living in nursing homes are equally deserving of the extra attention and expertise provided by hospice staff and volunteers.

How To Give A Perfect Manicure

August 1, 2019 by Diane 2 Comments

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How to give a nursing home manicure

When new volunteers start at the nursing home, they often ask for suggestions as to activities they can do with the residents. One idea I recommend is providing manicures.

This is an excellent activity because it makes the residents feel pampered. Also, especially if you’re a new volunteer and feel uneasy about chatting with residents, it helps when you can focus on a task like a manicure.

Why Should I Volunteer After Retirement?

July 29, 2019 by Diane Leave a Comment

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Why volunteer after retirement

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the average person will live about 17 more years after reaching retirement age. That’s another 6205 days to fill with enjoyable and meaningful activities.

While most retirees treasure the freedom and flexibility that comes with no longer working full-time, many miss some aspects of being employed. Volunteering is a great way to fill that void.

Diane

What is hoarding?

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