As National Nursing Home Week closes, I reflect on my experience with a nursing facility. My family has been very pleased with the care Grandma and Grandpa have received in a nursing home.
My grandparents lived on a farm and took care of "their own." About 10 years ago Grandma started having heart issues. Grandpa decided it was time to move to "the city" so she could be closer to her doctors. Then, Grandpa started having back issues, which meant he was unable to help Grandma when she needed it. He told me, "Michelle, find us a good home, one where I know that your grandma will be taken care of when I go." So, we did. They were admitted into the facility and we witnessed all the employees - from the administrator to housekeeping - take amazing care of these two very special people.
The staff embraced the concern, questions and even complaints from my family and they made sure that we all knew that Grandpa and Grandma were in good hands.
Grandpa loved to talk with the administrators about hunting, drinking beer and, despite my objections, stories about me! The CNAs, nurses, and social service director have all spent a great deal of time cheering on Grandma as her strength continues to improve.
This past January, Grandpa passed away. I have heard about facility employees and the grief they go through when losing a resident. I didn't understand until I saw it myself. These employees had become part of our family and they grieved right alongside us.
We worry that Grandma will not be far behind Grandpa but the days she does have left are being lived out well. She has requested additional therapy, she attends activities, and relays conversations she has with residents. It may not sound like much, but it shows how much stronger the staff have made her and how happy she is there! She told us recently that she "just might go to those Golden Age Games and see Michelle work!" I'm thinking she is going to show those fellow "cow-milkers" how it's done!
The facility that cared for my grandparents truly live the National Nursing Home theme. "It's a small world with a BIG Heart!" I am so proud and honored to serve you all who care for these beautiful residents!
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