I learned an important lesson early in my career when I would read the obituaries of recently deceased residents of our Seniorsfirst communities. I learned just how little I really knew about the person behind the face.
Oh sure, I may have known the resident's name and probably had met their son or daughter a time or two. I may have had the pleasant opportunity to have had some conversation with the resident as I visited in the households or participated in a resident activity. Depending on the resident, it was very likely that I was privy to some other specific data about their medical history, current behavior tendencies or personal care needs. But did I really know them?
Too often we fall into the trap of "knowing" our residents only by the way they live their life today. Time and age may have robbed them of elements of their independence and health, requiring them to adapt in ways that threaten the identity of the person they once were.
Yes, I learned this lesson when I would read an obituary full of life-long accomplishments, active pursuits and a fulfilling life that often defied the person I thought I knew.
Behind that aged and sage face was a teacher, businessman, doctor, nurse, banker. Not that long ago they were world travelers, first-time authors, avid golfers or gardeners. Somewhere in their past are those wonderful childhood years, first loves, marriage, children and grandchildren. Their lives are as full as they are unique and each has an amazing and wonderful story to tell if we take the time to listen.
Thankfully, at Seniorsfirst we not only take the time to listen, but we take the time to ask. The relationships that develop between residents and staff are not only built on the person they are today, but the person they have always been. Resident routines and activities are established following their life-long pursuits and preferences. Of course, there are compromises and limitations brought on by aging, but it doesn't change the person inside or take away the person they have become over a lifetime.
At our Valley Manor retirement community, we take great pride in the cultural and learning pursuits that our residents continue to pursue. If time and age are slowing them down, it sure is hard to tell based on their active schedules and fulfilling lives.
At our Assisted Living Cottage and Adult Day Program, every resident and client is uniquely supported in a manner that recognizes their individual needs, preferences and lifestyle. Ensuring a safe and caring home where every individual can feel loved, respected and able to live in the manner they choose, is our primary objective.
At Kirkhaven, we don't let the nature of one's frailty or age detract us from this same objective.
