Story No. 3

When a new resident was coming to our community, as an Activity Director I would look at his or her care plan, talk to the family member and/or the resident and get to know the person the best I could. I wanted to know his or her past. Where did they grow up, any brothers or sisters, children, married, career, hobbies. Did they like to travel, attend Church (what denomination) attend or host parties, dance, cook, play games, craft, paint or gardening? Do they like salty or sweet, hugs or handshakes? Any pets or play a sport? Any allergies? Diagnosis and the medicine they were on. Are they a morning or night person?

Why is all of this important? Actually, for many reasons. To create an Activity calendar of activities that they will want to attend. To know how to approach them. To give them comfort right from the start by knowing them. Really knowing them. I have and will share many stories that by just knowing my residents as a person and by the life they’ve lived made a huge difference not only for them, but for me and all of the staff who worked along side of me.

Never take for granted the story of a life lived! Love them where they are in their disease, but remember they are NOT defined by a diagnosis, but rather by the person they are. Peel back the disease and find the person inside.