Staying strong and active
During this uncertain time of COVID-19, care communities throughout The Lutheran Home Association have been making changes to ensure the safety of residents.
“When we are making decisions, we are considering how to best benefit our residents while keeping them safe,” explained Tiffany Olson, RN, the administrator at St. Michael’s Assisted Living, and the regional director of operations.
While working to keep the coronavirus out of the community, team members at St. Michael’s continue to focus on different aspects of health—most recently, falls and how best to prevent them.
According to the National Council on Aging, one in four seniors 65+ falls each year, thus making falls the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older Americans.
“There are a number of reasons why one may fall,” said Jess Watson, licensed practical nurse clinical care coordinator at St. Michael’s. “We take it case by case and consider all of the variables as to why the fall took place.”
As part of the fall reduction plan, Jess streamlined the documentation process for when a fall happens. All team members, not just direct caregivers, are involved in creating a safer community in which fewer falls happen.
“We have included everyone from dietary to housekeepers in this process. When we have more communication and education, we can do our best from every angle to prevent falls,” said Jess.
Part of preventing falls includes staying strong and active. Despite restrictions from COVID-19, residents continued their exercises in their doorways and have recently returned to a shared spaced, staying at least six feet apart from one another. Residents are encouraged to get exercise by walking, either in the community’s hallways or outside, if weather permits.
Maintaining the good overall health of St. Michael’s residents is nothing new: their wellbeing has always been most important.
“We continue to be thankful for our residents’ staying healthy and will continue to do everything we can to support them,” said Tiffany.
St. Michael’s promotes a healthy lifestyle that encourages continued independence with a tailored plan of assistance.