How Seniors Can “Engage at Every Age” from A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab May is “Older Americans Month,” a nationwide celebration of what older Americans contribute to society. Use this year’s theme, “Engage at Every Age,” as an opportunity to …
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from A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab
Kids are sponges, absorbing everything that’s thrown their way. Give children a peek into your world by sharing personal stories with them. This could involve connecting with your grandchild, reading to local children at a library or allowing yourself to be interviewed for a student’s project. You will come away with a positivity boost, and they will gain an alternative perspective on the world.
People of all ages and abilities can volunteer. Revisit a cause from your younger years, or take on a new cause you have always been passionate about. Some ideas include writing letters or sending care packages to military personnel, knitting clothes for babies, picking up litter in the local area, planting a community garden, serving as a tour guide, tutoring underprivileged youth or helping at an animal shelter.
No matter how niche your interests are, someone else likely shares your passions. Center your club around a hobby like gardening, reading, cinema or theatre and invite everyone in your local community to join. Even better, you can make your club intergenerational! Schedule special events like harvests, author visits, movie screenings or trips to theatre shows for a nice break from routine.
Active seniors tend to be happier and healthier overall. Even if you have arthritis, a low-impact exercise like swimming, yoga or tai-chi can help you stretch and strengthen your muscles without putting stress on your joints. If you like to move at a faster pace, consider joining a walking or biking group in the community. Keep your eyes peeled for charity walks, races and marathons in your area.
Did you know that 34 percent of seniors 65 and older use social media, 42 percent own a smartphone and 67 percent go online? The internet can connect you with family, friends and even people thousands of miles away. Plus, older voices are desperately needed in the online sphere, which tends to be dominated by the young. If you’re nervous or easily frustrated when it comes to technology, try taking a class at the library or tech store.
You are never too old to learn. Many local community centers offer low-commitment classes at reduced prices if you are just looking to dip your toe into a new subject area. Or, if you want to mix things up, you can attend college or university and earn a degree. There are many scholarships out there for so-called “non-traditional students,” so take a look into those opportunities if you’re interested.
After retiring, many seniors find themselves yearning for the structure and socialization that work provides. If you miss your industry or want to try something new altogether, start searching for low-stress part-time, seasonal or temp jobs. Retail and customer service are always good options, but you can also try something else, like being a driver, working for a nonprofit, doing direct sales, bookkeeping or freelancing.
Life becomes much more fulfilling when you have companions to share it with. At A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab, our friendly care team provides long-term care, short-term recovery and inpatient and outpatient therapy and rehabilitation for seniors. We care deeply for our community and foster social connection with regularly scheduled events and activities. Call us at (877) 918-6413 for more information.
The Cathedral Antiques Show raised more than $230,000 for A.G. Rhodes, which was the show’s beneficiary this year. Funds will be used to provide person-centered care for many A.G. Rhodes residents who are living with dementia and who lack the …
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The Cathedral Antiques Show raised more than $230,000 for A.G. Rhodes. A check was presented at the Cathedral of St. Philip on May 6.
The Cathedral Antiques Show raised more than $230,000 for A.G. Rhodes, which was the show’s beneficiary this year. Funds will be used to provide person-centered care for many A.G. Rhodes residents who are living with dementia and who lack the resources to pay for their medical and living expenses.
A.G. Rhodes will implement a Living Well with Dementia program, which will include:
“Thanks to the generosity of those who supported the Cathedral Antiques Show, the Living Well with Dementia program will enable elders living with dementia to thrive in a homelike environment, connected to and supported by their families and friends,” said Deke Cateau, Chief Executive Officer at A.G. Rhodes.
The Cathedral Antiques Show raised more than $230,000 for A.G. Rhodes. A check was presented at the Cathedral of St. Philip on May 6.
About the Show:
The Cathedral Antiques Show is a festival of art, antiques, and floral and interior design held annually to benefit a designated charity. The Show is a major outreach project sponsored by the Episcopal Church Women, and has raised more than $5 million for Atlanta-area nonprofits since its inception in 1969. For more information, visit www.cathedralantiques.org.
May 11, 2018
In another significant step toward transforming and improving nursing home care, A.G. Rhodes’ Cobb home became the first stand-alone nursing home in the state to be accepted into the Eden Alternative Registry, which consists of 250 national and international long-term …
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In another significant step toward transforming and improving nursing home care, A.G. Rhodes’ Cobb home became the first stand-alone nursing home in the state to be accepted into the Eden Alternative Registry, which consists of 250 national and international long-term care communities committed to improving the quality of life and care for the people they serve.
The Eden Alternative is an international, nonprofit organization that provides education and consultation for organizations across the entire continuum of care. With its person-directed care philosophy, it is dedicated to creating care environments that promote quality of life for elders and their care partners, leading to improved quality of care and higher rates of satisfaction. Last year, A.G. Rhodes of Cobb became the first nursing home in Georgia to complete Eden Alternative training, which was an important move toward de-institutionalization nursing home care so that it’s more home-like and tailored to individual needs and preferences.
“Achieving Registry status indicates A.G. Rhodes’ understanding of the unique needs, preferences and desires of those individuals entrusted to its care,” said Eden Alternative’s Chief Executive Officer, Jill Vitale-Aussem. “This significant step demonstrates the organization’s commitment to become a prominent provider for elders in the greater-Atlanta area.”
Working with employees at all levels at A.G. Rhodes, the Eden Alternative provided professional development training in person-directed care, an evolving process that honors the voices and choices of elders and those working most closely with them, thus transforming the delivery of care to the entire community. Throughout this comprehensive Registry process, both ancillary and clinical staff at A.G. Rhodes focused on core person-directed values that included choice, dignity, respect, self-determination and purposeful living.
“There is global initiative focused on transforming nursing home care as we know it,” said Angela Daugherty, Administrator of A.G. Rhodes’ Cobb location. “It’s a culture change movement, and we have been excited to lead the way among nursing home providers in Georgia. We have diligently worked through the preparation to become an Eden Registry Member because our care partner team is committed to improving nursing home care. It’s something we all want for our loved ones, and eventually for ourselves.”
May 10, 2018
The Effects of Creativity on Mental Well-Being from A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab Creative pursuits are good for more than just filling your free time. According to a study from the American Academy of Neurology, participating in the arts can …
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Creative pursuits are good for more than just filling your free time. According to a study from the American Academy of Neurology, participating in the arts can slow mental decline in individuals of middle or senior age by up to 73 percent. Check out these benefits of nurturing your inner artist.
Hobbies can introduce us to new people who share our interests and may become new friends. By participating in creative activities with a social component, such as a painting or pottery class, your aging loved one could begin making lifelong friendships that will help stave off loneliness as they age.
Art is often described as an emotional endeavor, and, in a way, that is true. Emotion often inspires us to paint, craft, build or write a particular piece, releasing the positive or negative stresses we may have been carrying with us. Seniors can relieve stress and manage negative emotions in a healthier, more beautiful way through art, while also expressing their joys.
According to the American Academy of Neurology study, patients who enjoyed creative passions are less likely to experience memory or thinking problems. This effect is typically attributed to the consistent use of neurons, which in turn strengthens neural connections and networks. Creativity may encourage the growth of new neurons as well.
No matter the age, everyone feels good about themselves when they’ve built or created something impressive. For seniors who may be dealing with feelings of dependency and hopelessness, this feeling could be invaluable. Completing an artistic project and feeling proud of the results can significantly boost a senior’s self-esteem in all areas of their life.
Many aging adults, especially those in short- or long-term care or rehabilitation, are struggling with chronic conditions or sudden illnesses that can make day-to-day life tedious and uninspiring. Receiving diagnoses and treatments and undergoing rigorous therapy can make life feel like drudgery. Pursuing art provides an escape from medical problems and declining health, boosting mood and improving overall attitude.
As your loved one ages, they may require more intensive care, therapy or rehabilitation to maintain their quality of life. At A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab, we understand that struggling with health conditions can put a damper on one’s zest for life. That’s why we offer a unique array of exciting services for all our residents, including horticultural, music and art therapy and social events. Contact us at 877-918-6413 to learn more about our available care and rehabilitation services.
As people grow older, retirement and rising health care costs eat away at their income. This can make it difficult for seniors to afford necessities like food and housing. Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security certainly help reduce that income gap, …
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As people grow older, retirement and rising health care costs eat away at their income. This can make it difficult for seniors to afford necessities like food and housing. Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security certainly help reduce that income gap, but there is another program in place to help seniors, although many don’t realize it – the Older Americans Act.
The Older Americans Act (OAA) is a piece of legislation passed by Congress in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson that aims to provide resources to a growing senior population. The initial act established the Administration on Aging, which is the federal agency responsible for overseeing the implementation of OAA programs. Grants fund State Units on Aging – and as of 1973, Area Agencies on Aging – so they can provide resources to local communities.
The OAA has been reauthorized several times over the years. The most recent reauthorization was in 2016 under President Barack Obama, and that reauthorization is for three years.
Technically speaking, any American age 60 and older is eligible to receive the services provided by the OAA. However, there are more than 49.2 million senior adults in the United States as of 2016, and only $1.88 billion available as of fiscal year 2014.1,2 The amount allocated to OAA programs has stagnated over the years, lagging behind inflation.
Simply put, there is not enough money to serve every American senior under the OAA. While is no mandate within federal law that states OAA money must go toward seniors that meet certain qualifications, states make their own rules regarding local distribution of funds.
Despite its limited funding, the OAA covers a lot of ground. Its overall goal is to ensure older Americans have a good quality of life. The OAA offers community services, combats hunger and food insecurity, provides care and establishes advocates for seniors. This allows seniors to be more independent, active and engaged in their communities.
Some specific services provided include:
More than 40 percent of the OAA budget goes toward providing meals and nutrition counseling to seniors.2 The Meals on Wheels program has combined federal funding with donations from corporate sponsors to serve nearly 218,000,000 meals over the course of the program’s existence.3 Funding is divvied up between congregate meals at gathering places like senior centers and home-delivered meals for seniors who may have limited access to transportation or physical disabilities.
Low-income adults age 55 and older may receive job training and part-time job placement via the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). This gives them extra income, community and a sense of purpose. Two-thirds of SCSEP participants are women, and nearly one half belong to a racial or ethnic minority group.4
About a fifth of funding goes toward a wide variety of community and health services, including senior centers, adult day care, transportation, legal assistance and home care.2
The OAA helps fund the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP). This program assists non-professional caregivers who give their time and energy to their older family members. Caregivers have access to training, respite, counseling and information services. In limited circumstances, supplemental caregiving may be provided.
In fiscal year 2017, 13.9 million dollars went to elder rights support, including Adult Protective Services, the Elder Justice Initiative and Long-Term Care Ombudsmen programs.5 This funding ensures seniors are not abused or neglected, especially seniors in long-term care and those who have cognitive or physical disabilities.
Having served Atlanta as a nonprofit for nearly 115 years, A.G. Rhodes Health & Rehab has seen many shifts in older adult care. We recognize that many aging American adults feel unheard and unsupported, which is why we strive to provide high-quality care and develop a sense of community for all our elders through social activities and events.
Our caregivers provide long-term care, short-term recovery, therapy and rehabilitation to seniors in the Atlanta area. Call us today at (877) 918-6413 for more information about our community.
https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press–releases/2017/cb17–html
https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/research/public_policy_institute/health/2014/the–older–americans–act–AARP–ppipdf
http://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/docs/default–source/fact–sheets/2017/mealsonwheelsamericapdf?sfvrsn=2
http://www.seniorserviceamerica.org/our–programs/the–senior–community–service–employment–program/
https://www.ncoa.org/resources/federal–budget–fy19–aging–program–funding–table/
Employee spotlights feature exceptional A.G. Rhodes staff members who are doing great work throughout the organization. May’s spotlight features Sarah Jordan, who has worked at A.G. Rhodes for 20 years in various positions, and she is currently a Unit Clerk …
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Employee spotlights feature exceptional A.G. Rhodes staff members who are doing great work throughout the organization. May’s spotlight features Sarah Jordan, who has worked at A.G. Rhodes for 20 years in various positions, and she is currently a Unit Clerk at our Wesley Woods home.
Sarah and her children (left to right): Shaqurry, Bernard Jr. and Yani
On May 7, Sarah graduated from the Atlanta Technical College with an Associate of Science in Nursing Degree. Now that she has completed her registered nursing educational requirements, Sarah will soon take the state board exam to become a licensed registered nurse.
“Sarah is an inspiring member of our team,” said Greg Heath, Administrator of A.G. Rhodes at Wesley Woods. “Not only is she incredibly dedicated to her job and the well-being of our elders, but she sets a wonderful example for other employees through her success in achieving her professional and personal goals. Sarah’s determination is contagious!”
Where are you from?
I’m from Bogalusa, Lousiana. I came to Georgia in 1998 and started working at A.G. Rhodes’ Cobb location. I was only 19 years old! In 2002, I transferred to the Wesley Woods home and have been here ever since. I’ve grown up at A.G. Rhodes.
What is your job title, and what does it entail?
My current title is Unit Clerk. This position entails direct interaction with the physician, Nurse Practitioner (NP), charge nurse and floor nurses. I am responsible for pulling off lab orders written by the physician or the NP. I also ensure that the lab work is done, and that the results are reviewed and signed by the physician or the NP and filed in the residents’ charts. I communicate directly with the residents and families to schedule follow-up appointments and transportation.
When I first started at A.G. Rhodes, I was a CNA. I also worked in housekeeping for a while, and then I was a receptionist here for 10 years before I become a Unit Clerk.
What’s the best part about your experience working in various positions at A.G. Rhodes?
Each position has been a learning experience, and I think of them as advancement opportunities. In each position I learned something new—a new trade, a new skill.
There is plenty of opportunity for growth at A.G. Rhodes. This company seeks for advancement within the company—they look for current qualified employees before looking to the outside.
What made you get into this field?
I have always loved taking care of people. I believe that with this profession, I can make a difference and make people feel that someone does care. I love interacting with elders and families, especially in relation to teaching and helping them help themselves.
When I was about 11 years old I used to help take care of my grandmother. I would watch what the home health nurse was doing when she came over and I thought, “That’s what I want to do when I grow up.”
What’s the best part about your job?
The best part about my job is working with elders and their families, and making sure their needs are met. I get to do quality work for a company—and with coworkers—who put elders first.
What do you want people to know about working with elders?
Working with elders is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. They deserve to be treated with respect and valued for what they have contributed to society.
Several years ago, I was going through something in my personal life and an elder gave me some great—yet simple—words of advice. They can offer you simple words of encouragement, and in turn, you can offer them simple things such as sitting with them and listening to them. These relationships and bonds make a big impact on not just the elders, but on the employees, too.
On May 7, Sarah graduated from the Atlanta Technical College with an Associate of Science in Nursing Degree.
You’ve juggled a lot over the last couple of years with your job, family and going to school. What keeps you going?
What keeps me going is that I put God first, my kids second and knowing that failure is not an option.
A friend of mine once said something that has stuck with me, “Anything worth having is worth fighting for”. I had a lot of determination, and I kept pursuing my dream.
My kids have been a big source of motivation throughout my journey. I want to be the image and role model that they look up to up, and I want them to say, “That’s how I want to be when I grow up”. As I try to inspire them, they actually inspire me. Both of my girls have told me that they want to be nurses.
What does it take to work in this field?
The Six C’s: Compassion, Caring, Competence, Communication, Commitment and Courage.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting into the long-term care industry?
The long-term care industry is a great place to learn, grow and build relationships. It’s a selfless industry where you will not only gain solid skills but also a sense of purpose.
I would recommend to anyone interested in getting into this field to talk with someone who currently works in long-term care. When working with elders, you have to be patient and willing to slow things down. You may even need to repeat yourself several times. These are important qualities when working in this field and you need to make sure your expectations are realistic.
What do you do when you are not working or in school?
For the last couple of years my focus has been church, my kids and school. I’m looking forward to finding out what I will enjoy now that school is over. I love to read and go to the movies.
What’s next for you?
My first priority is to get through state boards so that I can get licensed as an RN. Beyond that, I’d like to eventually go back to school and earn my Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN).
Do you have anything to add?
I want to encourage everyone to pursue your dreams and not give up. It doesn’t matter where or when you start or how long it takes, it only matters that you finish. A dream is more than a vision, a dream can be held, felt, touched and reached if you are willing to strive for it!
If you have an employee you’d like to nominate for the employee spotlight feature, please let your HR representative know.
May 9, 2018