A HOSPITAL RESIDENT

EDEN PRINCIPLES

2012-01-31T18:24:00.000-08:00

Ten Principles of
Eden Training

1. The three plagues of loneliness, helplessness and boredom account for the bulk of the suffering among our Elders.

2. An Elder-centered community commits to creating a human habitat where life revolves around close and continuing contact with plants, animals and children. It is these relationships that provide the young an old alike with a pathway to a life worth living.

3. Loving companionship is the antidote to loneliness. Elders deserve easy access to human and animal companionship.

4. An Elder-centered community creates opportunity to give as well as receive care. This is the antidote to helplessness.

5. An Elder-centered community imbues daily life with variety and spontaneity by creating an environment in which unexpected and unpredictable interactions and happenings can take place. This is an antidote to boredom.
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6. Meaningless activity corrodes the human spirit. The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essential to human health.

7. Medical treatment should be the servant of genuine human caring, never its master.

8. An Elder-centered community honors its Elders by de-emphasizing top-down bureaucratic authority, seeking instead to place the maximum possible decision-making authority into the hands of the Elders or into the hands of those closest to them.

9. Creating an Elder-centered community is a never-ending process. Human growth must never be separated from human life.

10. Wise leadership is the lifeblood of any struggle against the three plagues. For it, there can be no substitute.

GANDHI QUOTE:

2012-01-30T16:25:00.000-08:00

---Something mentioned in the training. A good piece of advice, also

My BROTHER and FRIEND HANK:

2012-01-30T10:15:00.000-08:00

My Brother and Friend Hank -

---My brother and Hank both told a story to me about things that they both have done…concerning animals.

---Hank once found a mocking bird that had a broken leg. He took the bird home and made a splint for him. The mocking bird mended and was part of his family. Hank was married at the time. He speaks of the bird riding in his car. He would perch on the steering wheel. Hank said that the biggest problem was that when he turned the wheel the bird would have to compensate for all that. Hank says that the streets in North Carolina aren’t very straight.

---I told my brother, Peter, Hank’s mocking bird story in an email. Peter told me in a quick email that he soon sent back.

---When he was working one morning as a campus policeman for a college in Massachusetts, he saw a skunk with a yogurt container on his head. The skunk couldn’t shake the container off. NOT able to see, the skunk was in and out of the street. Peter says that he knew that soon the skunk would be hit. Knowing Peter as I do, his next step didn’t surprise me. His partner was another story…HOWEVER!

---Peter got out of the car and slowly approached the skunk. I’m sure that he spoke quietly and reassuringly…the whole time. He had a special-type voice he would use at times like this. What was even better is that he genuinely likes animals.

---A skunk in fear is really nobody’s first choice of an encounter to have. Fear is what starts them spraying in the first place. AND...THEN THAT SMELL! After a short time, he had the situation well in hand. I wondered what he would have done if he was sprayed by the skunk…but, before I asked he said, ‘’It would have been terrible if the skunk had been hit by a car.’’ I know that he was thinking of the ‘’poor ole skunk.’’

---Oh, yeah! The reason I am not surprised by any of this – Peter has a way of putting others first. So does Hank, at times, for that matter. They are at those times much like many of our nurses and others who work and volunteer at Laguna Honda. It may NOT resemble EDEN all the time…But, SOMETIMES IT DOES. Be Well.

They both heard the ''helplessness'' of the animal and took it seriously.

SPARK of LIFE - Dementia

2012-01-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

---It is said that the memories are still there it is just that the patient/resident has lost his/her ability to access them. They would need assistance in obtaining that skill again. He becomes re-connected. This video was shown at the training.

Green House: A Place To Call Home

2012-01-26T07:08:00.000-08:00

---A part of the Eden Alternative Project. Make the big into small. It may take ingenuity, but very doable. ''Be the change you want to see.'' Residents and staff working together.

Where Love Matters

2012-01-26T06:31:00.000-08:00

---The Green House is part of the Eden Alternative Project. Dr. Bill Thomas is in this video, also.

Dr. Bill Thomas - Founder of Eden Project

2012-01-25T06:03:00.000-08:00

---There are many YouTube's concerning Dr. Bill and the EDEN ALTERNATIVE PROJECT. This video is just a piece of the puzzle.

A VIDEO YOU MAY FIND INTERESTING

2012-01-22T23:34:00.000-08:00

Different Look

---Here is a video that I sent to members of the executive staff a few years ago. It illustrates ways that a positive viewpoint can make to the clientele that it serves. Administration is principal, the teachers are the nurses and of course the students are the residents.

---In this video we are able to easily see the impact that a little positive regard has and the change for the better it indicates. It shows that the kinds of principles we learned at the Eden Training are very successful when applied.

---Watch the first 10 minutes and see if it relates to what you may want to know. The whole video lasts 57 minutes, but give it ten if you can. You may be surprised at how similar our situations can be. It is called - ''why do these kids love school?''

EDEN ALTERNATIVE I

2012-01-20T21:33:00.000-08:00

Eden Alternative I
WEDNESDAY

• Nothing is framed wrong. One is just looking for the next BEST answer.
• When taking picture, noticed that best light comes from within…when person is first acknowledged.
• Residents/Staff can be ‘’diamonds in the rough.’’
• Loneliness, helplessness and boredom are three moods NOT fixable w/medication.
• Care Partner is a better term than Caregiver.

THURSDAY

• There is NO ramp for dementia
• We have let meds be our master. If we get our foot caught in a bear trap we would probably give a Tylenol or stronger for the pain...instead of taking off the trap.

FRIDAY

• Be The Change That You See
• Staff Is Kept Happy With Positive Feedback – Not By Being Told Don’t...Constantly.

EDEN PHILOSOPHY IS NOT A PLACE - IT'S A MINDSET
Listen and Hear the Resident. You May Actually Want To Hear Some of What He/She Has To Say.

Antidotes

• Loneliness – Loving Companionship
• Boredom – Do things you enjoy and access to children, plants and animals
• Helplessness – Getting one's medical needs met and do something for another

The Staff/Resident DANCE -

2012-01-15T22:08:00.000-08:00

---What we want to speak of is the dance between the Staff and the Resident. I think we ALL can relate to an old-fashioned high school dance. It is a dance where the boys sit on one side of the room and the girls sit on the other. Every now and then we see two of the participants actually dancing together...but, mostly we find the boys with the boys and the girls with the girls.

---This is much the same vision I have of the hospital in which I live. The Residents could be the boys and the Staff could be the girls. It really doesn't matter who plays who in the scenario. The point is that both sides don't communicate very well. I'm, also, not speaking of the fine medical part of the equation. They take care of us pretty well. But...I think that as far as interacting together, the ''Staff/Resident Dance'' - needs some help. It is ALL about the attitudes involved toward one another.

---This coming week we are having members of the Eden Project coming in to teach us how to ''dance'' better, together. I would once again like to reiterate that I think we are better TOGETHER...than we were in 2003, when I began living at the Hospital/Nursing Home. If we were back at the old-fashioned dance, we would see only a few staff/resident couples dancing.

---Just to be sure that you understand that I'm not trying to be weird here. The couples signify the staff and residents. They understand each other's role very well...for the most part. The residents need the help and kindness of the staff...just to do ordinary things. When it works...IT WORKS GREAT. This is what the Eden classes are for. To fix what needs fixing.

---Let's tweak what needs tweaking. Good luck to all who are taking the class. I hope everyone hears what they need to hear. Shoot HIGH. Convey your learnings. Help those who need help on either side. Does ''DANCING WITH THE STARS'' sound good to anyone?

''The STORY''

2011-12-31T09:30:00.001-08:00

http://www.mediafire.com/?k8f9gasmae53l27
---Here is a powerpoint that I presented at a meeting between the executive staff and the residents' council. This took place after John K., had passed away. The location was in A-300 in the nurses offices of the old building.

The NEW HOSPITAL - VIDEO

2011-12-30T19:39:00.000-08:00

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http//www.archive.org/details/LhhYesterdayAndToday&reCache=1
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---Here is a video made by my friend, Rey G., who works at the hospital where I live. I had some tears watching this video. If you are connected with the hospital, you may find yourself welling up, also. Thank you, Rey, for the great gift of making the DVD and my being able to post it. The video lasts a little over 32 minutes.

NURSES WEEK 2011

2011-12-30T09:34:00.000-08:00

http://www.archive.org/details/NursesWeek2011LagunaHonda
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---Rey Guarin has come through with another video. Thanks, again...Rey! More to come -

BONDING - ppt.

2011-12-28T21:49:00.000-08:00

http://www.mediafire.com/?o0s0c9w44mkb2o9
---A refresher course in what I see is happening much, more often. Kudos to ALL who see the value in this and how it reflects back to us ALL. This DOES means you, also. Bonding is a wonderful thing and improves the life of all concerned. I think that if we'd each do one more heartfelt deed per day that we see needs to be done...I think that we would see an improvement overall

Two Powerpoints That Make The Point!

2011-12-26T10:48:00.000-08:00

---What is the need to be heard? What are we suppose to hear?
http://www.mediafire.com/?gond5kzzzed
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---The TWEAKER makes it right.
http://www.mediafire.com/?owrg0xylojm

What I have been up to -

2011-12-18T08:01:00.000-08:00

1. http://www.archive.org/details/Thought-provokingLightlyComicA
2. http://www.archive.org/details/Thought-provokingLightlyComicC
3. http://www.archive.org/details/Thought-provokingLightlyComicD
4. http://www.archive.org/details/Thought-provokingGandhiQuotes
---Originally published in May 2011

A Poem To Set The TONE -

2011-12-16T21:08:00.000-08:00

HOSPITAL TIME -

(Dedication to Dr. Grace - See Video below)

TIME Is ''DIFFERENT'' For RESIDENTS And STAFF
RESIDENT TIME Is MUCH SLOWER,
FOR THE MOST PART!!

When A RESIDENT In ''PAIN''
Waits For TEN MINUTES
It Can Seem Like ''FOREVER.''
TEN MINUTES To The STAFF
Almost A ''BREAK.''

STAFF GO HOME
GO OUT
GO

GO TO PARTIES
THEY HAVE SOMETHING ELSE

RESIDENTS ARE HOME
WATCH TV
TAKE MEDICATION

GO TO BED...
THERE'S NOT MUCH ELSE

The TRICK Is -
To FEEL GOOD

HOSPITAL TIME -

Video - I made this video awhile ago about the time Dr. Dammann had her accident. John Kanaley had liked this poem and recited it to the nurses. To set the record straight...there is little connection between the poem and Dr. Grace, other than the fact that I dedicated it to her. She has been to visit at the hospital.

FEAR of BEING WRONG - The ''STROKE'' GUY

2011-11-21T22:13:00.000-08:00

OCCUPY LAGUNA HONDA or ANYPLACE AT ALL!

2011-11-15T23:32:00.000-08:00

Occupy Laguna Honda or
ANYPLACE AT ALL!

---We may ask ourselves the question – how does the ‘’Occupy’’ movement affect those of us who already occupy the walls and halls of Laguna Honda? I see it this way.

---The ‘’occupy’’ movement itself seems concerned with ‘’equality’’ for all…and NOT having only the top money makers doing well at the expense of 99% of us. Much more of a ‘’we are ALL in this together’’…while breaking down those things that separate us – money vs. humanity.

---We will concede that the amount of money is controlled by those who built and run the hospital…BUT, they do NOT lay claim to ALL the brainpower that is necessary to relate the 99% to the 1%. We are all in this together - has come home to roost where I and a few others knows it rightfully belongs. It is with ALL of us…NOT just SOME of us.

---I see the sharing of the wealth coming in a way of NOT being caught in worrying over the distribution of monies…but distribution of the decisions being made. My personal gripe would be in the realm of ‘’why is so-and-so deciding such-and-such when the decision or decisions being made affect me much more than they are affecting themselves [except in their pocketbook?]’’

---Finding your own home, within, is where I think our happiness lies, so I can NOT waver on the idea that I think that to ‘’occupy’’ the self is the better movement. But, the Occupy Wall Street movement is certainly a step in the right direction. We still need to TWEAK a lot, but it is getting there. Be Well.

To OCCUPY the SELF

2011-11-15T23:24:00.000-08:00

Occupying the SELF

---A natural offshoot of the Occupy movement seems to eventually be that we learn to occupy the self. Through the occupy movement as it now stands, we see a movement toward the occupiers themselves becoming more aware of their own needs and preferences. Each citizen is discovering who he is…and THAT is very valuable.

---Though there will be some who only scratch the surface of who they really are…and STOP! There will be others who will glimpse what is contained within. They will find the greatness that is in there…and be changed by it all. They will realize that they have stumbled upon their true home and as quick as you know…they will move in.

---They will recognize that all is contained within and it is preferable to stay there. You are able to negotiate a way to bring your home with you wherever you go. You can live your life from an optimal spot and real living has transformed itself as being your life. CONGRATULATIONS!

From the Esplanade - David

2011-10-21T04:16:00.000-07:00

''MOTHER THERESA'' by David R.

2011-10-21T02:19:00.000-07:00

''COME BACK'' - David R.

2011-10-21T01:26:00.000-07:00

MORE POEMS

BBC-News Video - ''Pretty much a miracle''

2011-10-12T20:53:00.001-07:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-15114479
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---For anyone who hasn't seen the video. Mark M., is no longer at the hospital. Congratulations to ALL who were part of his rehabilitation.
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---Definitely a MUST SEE video. Good Luck to you...Mark (from the residents.)
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---Thanks to ALL in the HELPING profession for coming through for so many of us in our hour of need and for the days following. I am very glad that you receive back the help that you give. It confirms my belief that we are ALL in this, together - when I witness this kind of thing first-hand, everyday. For anyone that has ever HELPED anyone at anytime. Kudos.

To the NURSES (and everyone) at Laguna Honda!

2011-10-12T08:08:00.000-07:00

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---I would like to dedicate this song by the Beatles to ALL the nurses at Laguna Honda. I know that this song was written by John Lennon about a relationship to a girl he may or may not have been involved with. He may have found it applicable to that situation. But, I think it applies very strongly to myself and many others at Laguna Honda, also.
---I was very self-reliant most of my life and was very able to fend for myself. The bad times were the bad times, but I seemed to survive them alright. The stroke hit me in 2002...and I had NO idea what to do. I was immediately plugged into the system and ended up at Laguna Honda.
---People have been very good to me here. I love them ALL and I really think I mean that. They have helped me...so many times in so many ways. The song fits in, in so many ways, also. I didn't think too much about what people did who couldn't do the fundamental things that I used to take for granted. Well, I learned, in spades. They get - HELP!
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---I wrote the HELP piece about six months ago. I piggy-backed them, for now.

ELFIS the Movie 2000?

2011-10-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

---A little early, but some familiar faces.

John Kanaley Community Center Slideshow

2011-09-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

---My FRIEND - John Kanaley (1957-2009) WORCESTER, MA.

''ODE TO THE NURSES''

2011-09-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

My FRIEND - Frank A.

Frank's Success Story (Click)

Puff the Magic Dragon - The GUMBO BOYZ

2011-09-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday - The GUMBO BOYS (live) From The Esplanade

2011-08-18T00:26:00.000-07:00

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---It is hard to completely fail when Cho brings his baby.

I Am - Shirley M. (Well Worth a Listen)

2011-08-10T20:40:00.000-07:00

My FRIEND, Shirley M.

MORE POEMS (CLICK)

SAN FRANCISCO WEATHER!

2011-08-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

BE LOVING -

2011-05-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

Mahatma Gandhi -

2011-05-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

---The RESIDENT is the CUSTOMER of the HOSPITAL.

Tortoise helps friend who's flipped over.

2011-05-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

---Here is a good example of what I am speaking about. This video was sent to me by my friend, Elizabeth C.

CONNECTIONS: STAFF/RESIDENT RELATIONSHIP!

2011-03-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

---An IDEAL I'm kind of stuck on. Though, this is GOOD ADVICE...EVERYONE does NOT need it as much.

NEW CURRENT EVENTS MOVIE

2011-03-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

---MUTE the AUDIO on your computer, if the soundtrack is too strange.

''THE CART BEFORE THE HORSE''

2011-03-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

---I have been living in a Nursing Home for over seven years. It has been asked of me - ‘’what do you think is wrong at LHH?’’ Many expect me to comment on the move, in someway.

---What I see as needing change at LHH is much the same thing that I have always thought. The staff should interact with the resident much, more often. The staff as authority figure and substitutes for parents do wonders with the acknowledgement of residents as individuals.

---The staff records and deals with what the residents do, but don’t address ‘’why they do what they do?’’ It seems they are in an ideal position to change lifetimes of negative behavior to authority figures and parental figures by just providing a helpful, listening ear when necessary. But, most residents are on-the-clock as soon as they open their mouth. The staff has paperwork to get to…which has somehow become their jobs.

.---Writing and having meetings about and for the residents has taken the place of spending time with the resident and getting to know him. In my estimation, the latter would yield great benefit to the health and well-being of the resident. It seems the former gets the most play. It divides the people, here, into two camps - the staff and the residents. And, it furthers the existing isolation. Staff is busy with paperwork while residents sit in a quiet desperation. One can see that this a true statement when one experiences how a resident lights up at staff attention.

---These are the things that I think we need much, more of and no more of the separating attitudes that really don’t do anyone any good. Take Care.

.[Definition: The HORSE is the resident and the CART is anything and everything that causes distraction from that fact.]

HOW THE WORLD CONFLICT PERTAINS TO THE HOSPITAL

2011-03-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

World Conflict Pertains To Hospital Resident/Patient

---We find unrest all around the world, at this point. It mostly seems that the individual is asserting himself and the oppressive government where he is located, (Tunisia, Egypt, Bahrain and Libya,) is having a difficult time accepting this. They react violently to a non-violent proposal made by the protesters.

----We see that this is, also, showing itself at the hospital. The resident is standing toe-to-toe with the administration, asserting itself as a viable entity…much as the citizens of the oppressed nations around the globe. It is the same as stating that, ‘’we are as mad as hell and are not going to take it anymore.’’ As long as there are two sides, someone will be as ‘’mad as hell.’’ Working, together, will solve the situation.

---To be more fair, I have to admit to a big improvement that has taken place over the last few years. When I first arrived at the hospital in 2003, the resident and the staff were more like ships that pass in the night. There wasn't much in the way of communication. But, there has been an improvement in the last few years that let's me know that headway is being made. It is a big ship that moves very slowly, at times, while, in-the-meantime, I've been known to try and ''push-the-river.'' Not a very good match in that regard.

---We can learn from our own David and Goliath where we realize that the stoning WILL STOP when they break bread together and see each other as equals. Peace will happen when negotiations take place for needs and preferences of those on BOTH sides. This will be the ONLY way that a real peace will take place.

---The gap exists and the gulf is very wide in some places. The real solution is the same in ALL cases. The truth of the matter is that, ‘’We are all in this together.’’ It is just a matter of realizing that fact. We then work together and weed the garden to make the existing situation a positive one for all concerned. As long as everyone has a different outcome in mind, we tend to see chaos. Take Care.

LAGUNA HONDA POETRY

2011-03-20T09:32:00.000-07:00

---Link to recordings that the POETRY GROUP has made (DVD's and audio recordings) in the past.
Click Below -
Laguna Honda Poetry Group

BACK-TO-BASICS

2010-10-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

Resident-Staff
(Back-To-Basics)

---I see it this way. We beef up the Staff-Resident Communication. All Residents, now, go to their IDT. They participate in their own Care Plan.
---At IDT, the Resident comes away with 4 or 5 needs and preferences that he has come to terms with Care Team about. They are his goals or situations he will work on.
---His immediate Providers are aware of needs and preferences, and will work with Resident on acheiving his goals. This is Residents participation in own Care Plan, and ALL working with him. They are ALL on same page.
---Provider is anyone working with Resident on goals. They are usually part of or directed by the IDT. For example, CNA is well aware of Residents Needs and Preferences, and agrees to work toward acheiving goals, through willingness and ability to do this. This should be very recovery oriented.
---Resident Centered Care is the working on the N's and P's of Resident to relieve stresses, etc. Don't forget that the N's and P's have been ''GENERATED,'' in IDT. Should ALL be geared to gains in positivity of Resident, and dovettail into his happiness.

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Caregiver Is ''Willing and Able'' To Fulfill ''Needs and Preferences'' Of The Resident.

SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY .

2010-10-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

Vision Change -

(A Resident P.O.V.)

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--We have stated the problem to be one of the Resident relating to Staff. We feel that it is necessary to improve along these lines. We want to make the picture that is presented, match the one that actually exists.
---The nature of the beast is that the Residents are the Patients, and are here to be cared for by the Staff. The maladies that the Resident/Patient has, dictates this. It qualifies the Patient to take up Residency. The Staff have decided to work here. It is their job.
----When the Staff sees their job, as more of a vocation and are here because they want to be, they seem to be more Assistive. Their are others who don't seem to care as much.
---I see the difference and the distance between the two, to be summed up in the word - involvement. Their are staff self-involved (Work for paycheck to pay rent, etc.), and staff other-involved. (Vocational). Their is nothing wrong with either, their is nothing wrong with both. People usually fall between both extremes. If both sides ''pull-their-weight,'' it doesn't work, too badly.
---I think a Staff-Vision upgrade is necessary. This begins with how the ''work'' situation is seen. We have to begin, there.
---To upgrade, here, we have to increase the staff involvement - with the Resident/Patient. Both elements carry out the assignments given them. We are trying to implement the understanding that the situation at hand is an US situation, and NOT a Me vs. Them, situation.

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---A trick to employ - would you want a family member to endure your treatments? Could you watch your Mom or Dad, be treated and have the same complaints you are hearing? Would you do what you are doing to your infirmed child?
---Put yourself, a parent or a child on the other end of the complaints you are hearing. Would you do anything different?

NO Matter HOW You Look At It,

We Are ALL In This Together.

SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP -

2010-10-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

Staff-Resident Relationship -

(Symbiotic)

---The Staff-Resident Relationship is a very symbiotic relationship. This means that one depends on the other to survive. The Resident needs the Staff to do certain things for them, so as to carry out as normal a life as possible. The Staff ''does'' for the Resident, because it is their job.
---The best relationship is one that has the Residents needs and preferences taken care of by someone willing and able to take care of them. In the hospital setting the care giver would be on the Staff.
---They, (Staff and Resident,) also, have whatever attitude they bring to the table. We must remember that each is a human being and is capable of displaying any attitude possible. Some are better together than others. Each position has unique qualities that better may fit with one over another. Any two people does not necessarily a match make. One may not fit as well as another. A personality matching.

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A Resident, Sometimes, NEEDS An Inordinate Amount Of Help...To Do Ordinary Things.

NOT SMARTEST or STRONGEST!

2010-08-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

HERE IS A TOUCHING STORY...

2010-08-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

---I guarantee that you will be moved by this.

http://www.mediafire.com/?p4hazip8b6rahr2

FOOD FOR THOUGHT...EAGLES SONG

2010-08-02T17:43:00.001-07:00

De-INSTITUTIONALIZE HOSPITAL

2010-07-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

---A Version ''De-INSTITUTIONALIZE HOSPITAL''

A FEW YEARS AGO...

2010-02-02T17:53:00.000-08:00

Volunteer Holiday Show - 2005

Tim Hockenberry - Performer

RELATING TO THE RESIDENT

2009-11-08T22:27:00.000-08:00

http://www.mediafire.com/?dhmmznkzymt

THIS APPLIES TO EVERYONE - BAR NONE

2009-07-25T18:45:00.000-07:00

---The following applies to EVERYONE, whether they be staff, resident, butcher, baker or candlestickmaker. The following applies to YOU.

We ALL want/need to be heard + taken seriously

We ALL want/need to do what we enjoy doing

---Until the first point is satisfied, we may never find what we truly like to do.N

Doing FOR or Doing WITH

2009-03-20T20:05:00.000-07:00

Being an EFFECTIVE HELPER

Set OBJECTIVEs

Work toward INDEPENDENCE of client

---Ideally work toward making client as independent as possible. Do for...with independence as the objective.

---Being a resident/patient as I am, the best situation for me is one where my caregiver is willing and able to work with my needs and preferences. The better that this situation is, the better I am, all the way around

LEARNINGs FROM: Doing FOR/Doing WITH

2009-03-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

DOING FOR

Learn skill of accepting help

Learn how to take

NO skills to be self-reliant if giving stops

DOING WITH

Learn skill of working w/others

Learn value of partnering

Learn skills to be and maintain, self-reliance

WHAT IS EFFECTIVE HELP?

2009-03-20T17:19:00.000-07:00

Help that a person needs

Things done for a person that positively effect his life

Changes that last over time - needed/wanted

Things that help the person grow

Help that leads to INDEPENDENCE

WHAT IS INEFFECTIVE HELP?

2009-03-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

Intervention that one doesn't need or want
No change at all, when help is given
Help that does NOT help
Help that creates DEPENDENCY

WHAT IS NEGATIVE HELP?

2009-03-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

Negative help works against objective
Works negatively

VOLUNTEERS RECOGNITION QUOTE

2009-02-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

---We have many volunteers at the hospital. They are here because they want to help. We have two full-time employees working on placing the volunteers in the activity that is most necessary.

---Last week was held the, annual, Vounteer Recognition Tea. A former local newscaster gave the keynote address. She recited a very good quote at the end:

''Volunteers don't get paid - Not because they are
WORTHLESS, but because they are PRICELESS.''

Sherry Anderson

My Presidency -

2009-01-19T10:14:00.000-08:00

Residents Council President -
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---I feel, from my own perspective that the Resident Council, should be made up of least someone in charge of the proceedings. That is only for official reasons. In his/her absence, there should be the vice chairman.
---Any need to reprimand should be a staff issue, work to make situation workable, and deal with any situation that comes up between officers.
---My own presidency was based on the idea - to improve conditions for the resident, as he stays at the Hospital. I think that Consistent Care, whenever possible, provided, is a step in that direction. By Consistent Care I mean the same caregivers, who are and become more familiar with the resident in question. This should, also, take care of the ongoing concern of NOT being informed of appointments being made for him/her.
---I, also, believe that the IDT meeting should have a weekly checkin and an ongoing feel to it. I think that the resident would greatly benefit from having a working relationship with each member of his/her IDT Team.
---I think that the community meeting should be enhanced and that material from checkins be used whenever possible. The nurse manager, or someone, should be in these meetings, sometimes. Pertinent and accurate info could be discussed at these times. The RC mins are also, of value. Pertinent guests are not outlawed.
---I, also, think that familiarity with other workers is a good thing and beneficial to the resident. We are truly in this, together.

Happy Holidays!!

2008-12-21T15:17:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAY and SEASONS GREETING!

Both Are A Must See.

http://www.mediafire.com/?aczm4umfyji E-Card (Lauren S.)
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http://www.mediafire.com/?15kmijln2nm From Poetry Reading - The PEACE PROCESS

.YouTube Search - MrStrokeGuy

FLY SINGS - PEACE

2008-12-20T09:49:00.000-08:00

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---Same as video in the last posting, essentially!

CAREGIVER-RESIDENT PAIRINGS

2008-10-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

CAREGIVER-RESIDENT DYNAMIC
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---I don't think there is a right or wrong in this dynamic. To me, it is one where the resident has certain needs and preferences, and the caregiver, or any caregiver at the moment, has contracted to a certain willingness and ability to carry them out.
---This relationship is like any other. It is a dance that takes two-to-tango. In the setting we are speaking of, the relationship tends to be one-sided due to the nature of the game.
---For the dance to work optimally, one has to be aware of the above. Just like in a dance, some pair up better than others. People are not interchangeable. If they were, anyone could be paired up with anyone else, and it would work. You could have different spouses, constantly...you could go to your mechanic to fill your prescriptions, etc. Everyone is NOT the same. Everyone IS DIFFERENT, with different skills and fill criteria differently.
---There is NO right or wrong in THIS relationship...just some pairings that work better than others. If you spend a lot of time trying to be right, while trying to make the charge wrong, or vice-versa, then you are barking up the wrong tree...and invalidating the caregiver or resident, in the process.
---If the rotational situation is working in every case, all the time, then it is beyond me. I am completely wrong and will eat the crow that is due me.
---Just as in relationship, I think we relate to some better than others. My perfect caregiver may not be your perfect caregiver and vice-versa. This is, also, true from the caregivers perspective. Some caregivers prefer some and work with some residents, better than others. It is ALL a matter of what works.
---To note, again - I've noticed that the best caregiver relationship that I could have are with those caregivers most willing and able to carry out my needs and preferences.
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A Residents Perspective

Meditation -

2008-10-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

---I highly recommend this site.

http://how-to-meditate.org/

A HOUSE INTO A HOME

2008-01-09T06:02:00.000-08:00

---There has been a push to move the Hospital away from the INSTITUTIONAL model, and to make it more of a home-like environment. Here is my take on the subject. I think it is a very good idea.

Making The Hospital Into A Home - The MOVIE

BELOW

A RESIDENT PERSPECTIVE -

2007-10-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

From Resident Perspective -

A Resident, sometimes, needs an inordinate amount of help...to do ordinary things.

Resident Care Ideal: A hospital-wide mindset
where ALL workers are caregivers.

Caregiver is someone ''willing and able'' to fulfill ''needs and preferences'' of Resident.

Resident (needs and preferences):
GENERATED by IDT meeting.

EVERY Resident has an IDT (care team).

IDT is care team - made up of Staff, etc.
InterDisciplinary Team.

IDT meeting: Meeting of
care team and Resident.
(FOUR times per year)

NO Matter HOW You Look At It,
We Are ALL In This Together.

IDT or Care Team -

2007-10-07T06:42:00.000-07:00

Every Resident Has IDT (Care Team)

IDT and YOU -

2007-10-07T05:57:00.000-07:00

IDT and YOU -

http://www.mediafire.com/?mlbof7gu5hg

---Every Resident has different NEEDS and PREFERENCES. It is very rare if we find any two who have the exact N’s and P’s, someone else may have.
---Every Resident has an Interdisciplinary Team or IDT, to help with the management of his care. The IDT team is made up of your doctor, the nurse manager, the charge nurse, your dietician, your activities therapist, your social worker and whoever else may be a part of your aid team. It is also made up of YOU.
---The IDT will help the Resident to identify the N’s and P’s, that best suit his care. And that both sides have come to a happy agreement. Once we have identified the Residents N’s and P’s, we then convey the N’s and P’s to his CNA of the day.
---We remember that the best CNA-Resident relationship, is one that works. The relationship seems to work best when the N’s and P’s of the Resident are provided for him/her by a CNA who is Willing and Able to carry them out.

When the Ground Rules are straight, then we should have a more natural and healthier communication for all parties concerned.

Hospital-Wide Mindset - Where ALL Hospital Workers Are Caregivers.

Resident-Centered Care Conference -

(The Second Article Was Written About 18 months, After The IDT and YOU)

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---This is the new name chosen for the IDT. It spells out what it intends, from the beginning. It is easier to understand, right out of the gate.
---There was a committee formed that had as its intention, to ''continually improve communication,'' at the Hospital. There was a poster developed that put the results and conclusions we came to, in the meetings, into an easy to read version that will be prominently displayed throughout the Hospital.
---There is a real effort to put residents first, and not just give the idea, ''lip-service.'' In my own opinion, I hope that a Care Team Member checks in with each resident, at least once a week, just to see how he/she is doing and if anything new is going on. To me this will keep things current and fresh and forge more of a bond between the Resident and his Care Team.
---In my case, I like the fact that a member of my care team came into my own space and we talked for a bit. This person would see me in the hallway and ask how I'm doing, but I noticed it didn't seem to have the same effect that an actual ''visit and short chat,'' did. It was nice that she made some time for me. We talked of things outside of here, and, it seemed the beginning of a ''better'' relationship. There are efforts made to bridge the gap existing, sometimes, between staff and resident. To do this, we need the cooperation of EVERYONE, here. Take Care.

The RESIDENT COUNCIL -

2007-10-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

The RESIDENT COUNCIL -

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---This should be a place to get things done, after a try with your IDT has come up short. The chain of command would be to begin with the nurse manager of the unit. If you were unsatisfied with the nurse managers and IDT advice, then bring issue to Residents Council.
---We know that the above scenario doesn't come into play, very often. And that is for a number of different reasons. I started to think of the different ways and reasons that it doesn't work, and it comes down to the fact that the chain-of-command is NOT well-known.
---To top it off, we, for the most part, don't have a ''good,'' relationship with the person that we would take the issue to, anyway, if it was a perfect world.
---In my estimation, I think that if Residents felt ''comfortable,'' with members of their IDT, and trusted their judgments and decisions, they would use them more often. But, by the same token, the members of the IDT have to PROVE that their judgments and decisions are worth trusting. Some, of what goes down, as trustworthy decisions and judgments, makes you wonder.
---I believe that if the Resident has a top notch support mechanism, in place, the above would NOT be as problematic. He would naturally go to the party, who could resolve the problem.
---Personally, I find that the person I want to talk to, is NOT ALWAYS AVAILABLE. I, myself, find I play the ''waiting,'' game, a lot. I believe, also, that if the ''team,'' worked more as a unit and were more on the same page, that we would see a marked improvement.
---People tend to be more self-centered than Resident-Centered...and that includes, both, Residents and Staff. People prioritize differently - You may NOT be the priority, at that moment.

The Golden Rule - Treat Others As You WANT To Be Treated.

Resident-Centered Care - A STUDY

2007-10-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

RESIDENT-CENTERED CARE: The ''KELLOGG'' Study

http://www.esresearch.org/documents_06/Overview.pdf

My Personal Opinion On Resident-Centered Care - (SCROLL DOWN)

Resident-Centered Care -

2007-10-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

RESIDENT-CENTERED CARE -

---There is a buzzword going around. It is a term, actually. It is - Resident Centered Care. Contrary to what you may have heard, it wasn’t created to give the staff nightmares, or something else to worry about. But, I’ve noticed that when left on their own with terms like this, they can’t help but worry…or at least, wonder. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? Staff and Resident, alike, are looking for a definition.

---Suitable Definition, To Me -
---To me, it is where the rubber meets the road. Resident-Centered Care is where staff and resident have a DIALOG. They have to hash out it’s meaning. It may be different in every case. There really is NO definition that will fit everybody, all the time. There is NO real blanket definition.

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---Personally, I think, it is where the Resident states, what he wants. When you know what you want, I think you are at least, halfway there. It really doesn’t matter if it is possible or impossible, foolish or right-on, the staff will swoop down upon it and help you make your idea fitting and realistic.
---It takes, ‘’two, to tango.’’ There is a good chance that the Resident, with his idea, will need help to accomplish his goal, anyway. We, as Residents, have to be realistic with it all. Otherwise, it doesn’t have a ‘’snowballs chance in hell,’’ to get done. As sad as it may seem, we NEED the SWOOPERS.
---BUT, it is through this process of give-and-take, that we reach a comfortable agreement of dealing with the task at hand. When both sides are happy with the role each plays in the situation – We have a done deal. Then, the carrying it out part, is the easy part. Be Well.

EVERY Resident Has An IDT (Care Team)

CARTOON BREAK -

2007-10-06T20:00:00.000-07:00

Resident-Staff Communication

2007-10-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

Resident-Staff
Communication

---The Communication between the Resident and Staff is what I really mean, when I say that the focus should be on the IDT. To me, the IDT situation is where the Rubber meets the Road.
---From my observation, I have seen many cases where the Resident cannot communicate his needs to the staff, and vice-versa. They seem to be on a different page. Sometimes it seems there is a different book. I think the Objectives of each are different. The Resident seems very concerned with the immediacy of his needs, while the staff, per se, are broader in there thinking, and more casual about the situation.
---I think that the word URGENT says a lot. Residents think that there is an urgency, where sometimes there is NOT. BUT, the fact that the Resident thinks this, and hence, the Resident is reacting to this has got to be dismantled, in my estimation.
---The other-side of the coin, is that the Staff thinks that certain situations are more URGENT than the Resident, does. The Staff can even be taken aback by the Resident’s non-challance, in a situation.
---Staff and Residents have different priorities. They think different things are ‘’important.’’ The Staff seems more concerned doing things according to the book – To keep their jobs or because, to them, this is the best way. It may be the way they think it is done, and questioning it doesn’t enter the picture.
---The Resident response is laced with their upbringing, etc. but their time-frame is different. Earlier, I said that the Resident is on the ‘’doing it immediately, schedule,’’ and the Staff is prioritizing, etc. TRYING TO FIT IT ALL IN BEFORE THEY [leave, break, etc.]
---The Staff doesn’t seem to understand why the Resident isn’t ready when they are, and vice-versa. A classic example is when the nurse is ready with the medication, sometimes, the Resident is nowhere to be found. Their availability is much different, in many cases.
---Here we have a brainstorming point:

1. Interests are different
2. Staff and Resident should DO many, more things together. [Clubhouse Model] – Almost a mentoring situation where Staff and Resident share and exchange ideas, etc. [They Talk, Together]
3. People need to feel engaged, included, etc.
4. People have to feel they are part of the team. No matter what part they play, their part is important. [Realize that their part is important-Don’t fake it]

---What may begin by just needing ATTENTION at first, grows into a more comfortable setting where actual SHARING may take place.

---Residents may have much too say and to some it may just be rambling, that is okay. It is a very relative situation. You may NOT want to hear the Aunt Margaret Story. Many staff do NOT know how to disengage from a Resident Rambling. Brainstorm:

1. Resident may not know he is rambling or being repetitive
2. future

----How to deal with Resident Rambling. You have to actually hear what Resident is saying. You could help him be more specific.

This Occurs Very Often:

---Many Residents are trying to squeeze too much information into the time that is allotted them, by the Staff. Resembles Resident Rambling - but isn't. Some end up saying nothing, because somewhere in their past they were thwarted as they made this attempt. It is too painful to even try, now, or they are so out of practice, that they don’t know where to begin.

QUESTION: Out of it, or out of practice with
communication?

---Dealing with APATHY [Brainstorm]:

1. Be sure it IS APATHY Could just be out of practice with communicating.
2. Still find likes and dislikes. It may be difficult, but they are usually in there.

Know that some communicate too little, while some are trying to fit it ALL in. The Staff person involved is the time keeper by his/her reaction[s] and response, in the exchange.

ATTITUDE THERAPY -

2007-10-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

ATTITUDE THERAPY -

---When we have the right attitude, we can do almost anything. When our attitude is right, there is very little that can stop us. When our attitude is wrong for the situation we are in, getting out safely becomes something we are not sure of.
---There are so many words that we have to define our ''attitudes.'' We can be happy, sad, confident, needy, etc.. Our feelings to what we are relating to, denote the attitude we have towards it. Our attitudes cross all of Human Emotion.
---When we are comfortable with what we are relating to, we are more relaxed. The opposite is also true - If we are NOT comfortable with what we relate to, we are nervous, more stressed, tense, whathaveyou. This is reflected in our BP, also.

---When we have an OBJECTIVE Attitude and
Outlook, we seem to do better. We see things as they are as opposed to putting our own SUBJECTIVE spin on things. What we want to do is to’’see’’ the Needs and Preferences that have us make the choices we do.
---I would suggest that you look at a list you make of ''Needs and Preferences,'' and see which are real and separate out the ones you only ‘’think’’ you need. With this list, it should be clear to you where you stand and why you have the ATTITUDES you do. There is a good chance you will remember – How they became part of your personal inventory. By listing ones ''Needs and Preferences,'' we are listing the very things we consider important for our survival. We will then see the attitudes, we have come up with, to get our ‘’N’s and P’s,’’ met. They can be surprisingly creative, if you find that you been very honest. Be Well.

Treat Others, Like You Want To Be Treated.

We ALL Need Someone We Can ''LEAN'' On -

2007-10-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

Venting To My

NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST -

(Pictured: Just Kidding)

---We ALL seem to need someone that we can talk to. Someone who listens to us as we get things ''off of our chest.'' He can be a friend, a professional person, a relative or anyone who has a good ear and hears what we're saying. He may be someone that helps us put things into words if we are having trouble with that, ourselves.
---Have you ever noticed that some people are better to talk to than others? Some understand you better. Some are better at listening and know what you seem to need to hear. They ''get'' where you are coming from and you actually enjoy your time together, ''unburdening'' yourself. This usually happens when we don't feel that we are being ''judged'' by the other person. In fact, the more accepted we feel, the more ''open'' we usually find ourselves.
---As they say, you shouldn't keep your ''music'' inside. In fact, it may not be ''music'' until someone hears it. You may feel a bit exposed, but if someone lets you know it is ''okay,'' than suddenly it is ''alright,'' [especially if you hold him in much respect.] You feel good. All of a sudden you have some kind of positive relationship. Remember, ALL relationships have three components-1] The way you ''see'' it, 2] The way he or she ''sees'' it, and 3] What you two agree upon.
---The only reason I say the above is that I know how good it feels to get your frustrations out. I used to do this for a living and I, myself, have been through many sessions. I have seen myself and others feel better in the process. I used to think that what bothered me was so different, but you soon learn there is little you can say that hasn't been heard or said before, in some form or other. People tend to have the ''same'' emotions, just over ''different'' things. We are also clearing out our insides for something ''new,'' which takes care of some of that ''boredom.''
---One of the Neuropsychologists and myself [I had a stroke] have a session every Friday. It is an opportunity to ''get it out.'' Over time, I see that this relationship has ''grown,'' and I look forward to seeing him. As with any new relationship, we had to get to know one another, but now I feel comfortable in telling him just about anything. He has become a friend. It is taught in the 12 step programs that you are only as ''sick as what you keep secret,'' so having someone to talk to, is a valueable commodity.
---I urge everyone to find someone to talk to. There are many professional and non-professional people, here. Don't let things get to the breaking point before you do something. It is like a radiator valve that you learn to turn on slowly and when necessary, to let off some ''steam.'' As I said earlier, there is not much you can say that has NOT been heard before. Having another to talk to keeps the frustrations down and manageable. It keeps you current and present.
---ALL of the ''good-stuff'' is inside, but you may have to weed the garden, first. Give ''it'' a try, and see if it doesn't reap benefits, eventually. Give it some time. There are many people here willing and trained to talk, if you want to. There are psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, chaplains, volunteers, etc. Out of that bunch, there must be someone you can talk to. Be Well.

Float Situation - Pt. 1

2007-10-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

The ''Float'' Situation

Part 1

---Contrary to opinion, I do not dislike floats. In case you don't know, they are the people who fill - in for the regular workers on your Ward. They come in all shapes and sizes, varying degrees of life experience, intellect etc. In other words- They are like everyone else.
---What I do dislike is this - The training period. By this I mean, the period of time it takes me to teach my particular float the many, many things that I need them to do for me. The difficulty is that I have virtually no usable hands, except theirs. In addition to this, I have many idiosyncratic ways, that repeating them, to a different person [in what sometimes seems a daily situation] is also difficult for me. It increases my stress, etc. It becomes very much a teaching of the same boring class, ad finitum.
---As people, I have no opposition to those who have chosen this as their work. In fact, these are the very people who are learning a trade that I utilize constantly. I feel it is safe to say I probably need what THEY do, more than, say - many other professions [at least directly.]
---At first, I didn't even know there existed a job like this. Before I was in the hospital, it just never came up. I could do things for myself and never thought about what it is people do, who can't. It was my job to do for me, and that is about as far as it went.
---Then I needed help. And with no questions asked, they helped me. I had a stroke and if left to my own devices - I wouldn't know what to do. I was quickly plugged into a system that made it ''possible'' for me to continue on, in a different capacity, but nonetheless, continue doing what I do, whatever that is. I think finding ourselves is what we do - and everyone does it different no matter what the circumstance.
---They have given me another lease on living, and I am grateful. I have been ''different'' now, for four-plus years. In a certain way, they are part of my immediate family, no matter how dysfunctional it gets, sometimes. But, that seems the nature of families, anyway.
---It is NOT the CNA that I have a problem with, but the amount of my own idiosyncrasies. I have a lot of preferences and I verbalize them. To me, they are very natural, as I spent about fifty years - doing each one. But, when someone else does them, that's usually where the ''problems'' begin. I'm supervising someone else doing what I did, and did very easily. I forget that everyone has there own set of the way they do things, and the person making my coffee, for instance, may have a different idea from myself. They begin making it their way. [Do you know how many different ways there are to make coffee?]
---It can be like a dance, where you ''trade - off'' who is leading. I am not as flexible as some would like, while others prefer my direction. Well, I don't know exactly why I never could dance, and in kindergarten I got a check mark next to - doesn't work well with others. I'll work on my flexibility, just please tolerate me, while I do. I'll try to not sound like a tyrrannical dictator the next time I need two Equals in my coffee, and, ''God forbid,'' you forget. Just kidding.
---I am Thankful to all and Hope they know that. Be Well.

Float Situation - Pt. 2

2007-10-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

The ''Float'' Situation

Part 2

---The situation I speak of is the Resident and immediate (usually very intimate and fundamental) caregiver, the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant). This has all the earmarks and potential for one of the most important relationships that either have ever been in, or could just be ''two ships that pass in the night.'' Or, the situation (relationship) could fall somewhere in the middle.
---There seems to be different camps on this situation. There seem to be those Residents who prefer certain CNA's and those who go with whomever comes down the pike. There is also the CNA to consider. There are some who prefer certain residents and those who don't care as much. We cannot assume that every Resident and CNA is the same and each is interchangeable. We know from the evidence of the present circumstance, that this is not the case.
---How do we make beneficial and necessary changes when they need to be done? We must look at the ''factors'' that are the essential factors in the Resident - CNA relationship, and those that are not. Since it is the easiest, and because it is the most obvious, we will start with what the relationship is NOT.
---The CNA - Resident is not spousal. The CNA is NOT the
husband or wife of the Resident, or vice - versa. If an aspect of this exists, than the relationship is not purely a Helper - Helpee relationship. We have to know our boundary lines, and what we are doing.
---I think there are Residents who don't really know what [exactly and actually] the CNA does and really don't know what can be expected in the CNA - Resident relationship. I have seen a list of the different skills the CNA is able to provide, but, at present, some don't apply. All I really know or knew is that I had a stroke, and these CNA people will help. I have since learned that many of my own needs were not covered by that list, and to have the ''PERFECT'' relationship with a CNA, their ''Life experience'' and their ''Efficiency level'' enters into ''it'' constantly. A good match for me doesn't necessarily mean that ''the best CNA in the world,'' has to be found. But, I presently do better with a bit of structure or sameness.

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The Rules Of Any Relationship:

1. The Way YOU See It.

2. The Way HE/SHE/THEY See It.

3. What The TWO Sides, Agree Upon.

---I should be my own best CNA as I, myself, am the only one who can second - guess ME, on a continual basis. Well, we know this is NOT possible, as there are certain things I can not do for myself.
---It seems then a Helper is needed. My duty is to identify my ''needs'' and ''preferences'' and have a relationship with a CNA who is ''willing'' and ''able'' to deal with them. A good match seems to be one that ''works'' and the relationship that ''most'' naturally fulfills this criteria.
---A solution to this whole dilemma would be to ''cluster'' Residents together whose Needs and Preferences ''match'' the Willingness and Ability of the CNA's who agree to carry them out. The CNA who prefers a ''Float - type'' situation are placed with Residents who don't care as much. To him, one CNA situation seems to fit as well as another. Be Well.

The Creation Story -

2007-10-04T18:24:00.000-07:00

---Like You Have NEVER Seen. You Are What You Eat...Hmm.

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http://www.mediafire.com/?85y2twwi9zd

(Picture is an Old Advertisement)