Back in the Spring I worked full time as a nurse assistant at a rehab center here in Philly. Because I now have a nanny job, I am not able to pick up many shifts for them but they know I am back and call me randomly as needed. Well, I got lucky a few weeks ago and was asked to help escort about 20 residents on the Spirit of Philly Boat Tour. I could not pass the offer up and immediately said yes! We got a buffet style lunch, drinks, dessert, and live entertainment all while they described to us what we were passing by. I have a deep love for the elderly, and thoroughly enjoyed myself!
The residents started dancing to the music...it was SO cute.
Oh, it was so much fun. Some of them got all dressed up for this outing...it is a big deal to them! They don't get out of the rehab center much so they get very excited for activities. I would have loved to go and be part of this even if I didn't get paid. I love being there to help them, and have grown a great love for elderly people. I could talk to them for hours, even if I know they won't remember me or any part of our conversation. There is a lot to learn from just listening to them talk...some are very wise and are usually more "with it" than you would think! The oldest resident we have in the facility right now just turned 112. Another one just turned 109. When I asked her the secret to a long life, she told me "to always think positive and don't waste time not being happy." Simple as that.
No comments:
Post a Comment