Shining Moments During These Difficult Times
By Roberto Muñiz
It’s in times of adversity like these that I’m most amazed by the resilience of our team at Parker. We have seen leaders and more importantly the front-line staff rise up in the midst of all the work we are doing to keep our residents and employees safe. It’s not surprising to me that even the quietest caregivers have stepped up to take the helm and lead others. Everyone on our team is doing their part, and it’s really a joy to see.
We continue to follow all the steps and recommendations from the CDC and the NJ Department of Health to reduce the potential for exposure. There is nothing more important than the health and welfare of the people we care for and serve and it’s for this reason we have taken every step possible to ensure their safety. Yet we are seeing an equally important need: the need to keep our Elders engaged, bring them meaning and moments of joy in the midst of what would seem to be our new norm.
Without being able to socially interact with friends, venture out, or have visitors, the days could get lonely. Yet our staff has brought moments of meaning to a whole new level. Our horticulturist, Lee, recently provided a session from the ground courtyard of our assisted living while residents watched from their balconies. One of our Landing Lane nursing residents celebrated their 60th anniversary over Skype with their spouse. Some of our recreation staff created a happiness cart which delivers assorted beverages, music, dancing, bubbles, spontaneity and some good old-fashioned silliness to our residents at their doorstep. Rehab and personal exercise therapies are being given in resident rooms and suites.
We realize that we work with a vulnerable population and it is our responsibility and privilege to protect them. We will continue to do so and hope this virus comes to its end soon. Until that comes, I urge you to take a moment to notice the positives in the midst of the storm and it’s important that we see them.
Godspeed and stay healthy!
Roberto