3
347932
I just don't get the stigma with taking care of the elderly in Nursing Homes. Is it the most glamorous or lucrative aspect of what we do? It sure isn't, but you know what? It sure does make those old folks feel good.
Not just because you are providing a service that they used to do for themselves, but no longer can. Not just because they get to hang out with a "youngster" for a little while. Not just because you eventually get to know them, and them you, and they get just as excited about that story about your son scoring as you did when it happened. Not because it opens a flood gate of potential opportunities to give a lasting, good impression to the staff that work there.
Mostly, it's because it reminds them of how they used to be, and they are thankful they were there once.
For me, it humanizes me. It makes me realize that one day, it'll be me sitting in that chair staring out the window, remembering when I was young and reliving it a little when that young doctor comes to chat and cut my toenails for me.
It also makes me realize how, even though it's not fixing broken bones, or correcting bunions, it is still one of the most important jobs we have.
Don't hate. It's part of who we are.
Not just because you are providing a service that they used to do for themselves, but no longer can. Not just because they get to hang out with a "youngster" for a little while. Not just because you eventually get to know them, and them you, and they get just as excited about that story about your son scoring as you did when it happened. Not because it opens a flood gate of potential opportunities to give a lasting, good impression to the staff that work there.
Mostly, it's because it reminds them of how they used to be, and they are thankful they were there once.
For me, it humanizes me. It makes me realize that one day, it'll be me sitting in that chair staring out the window, remembering when I was young and reliving it a little when that young doctor comes to chat and cut my toenails for me.
It also makes me realize how, even though it's not fixing broken bones, or correcting bunions, it is still one of the most important jobs we have.
Don't hate. It's part of who we are.