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September Letter from the CEO
Krystin Albert; RN, BSN
Living in New England my entire life I can’t imagine not experiencing all four seasons. Each season is unique in nature and holds its own beauty. As we slowly creep into fall what comes to mind? Leaves change color, kids go back to school, and the air becomes cooler. Schedules become busier and time moves forward swiftly, before you know it Thanksgiving and Christmas are here and we are transitioning into winter. Three months ago, we were making summer plans, planting gardens, planning trips to the ocean, and soaking up the sun. Today we are scheduling flu shots, prepping for fall cleanup, and pulling out warmer clothing.
The change in seasons can be challenging but it doesn’t have to be. It’s easy to get in a slump and not find time or motivation to do the activities that bring you enjoyment. Days slowly start to become shorter, getting darker earlier each day. People struggling with the loss of a loved one or mental health issues may find it harder to function and cope, especially with the upcoming holidays. Many with multiple co-morbidities struggle to function physically in the cooler temps leading to isolation and limited mobility. This can lead to confusion and an increased risk for falls.
As a Healthcare agency what can we do to help our community navigate the beauty of each season and adjust to the change it brings? Well, for starters we provide education on how to care for your physical and emotional wellbeing. We provide education to the Senior Centers and facilities on safety, falls, diet, chronic disease management, medication management, and other seasonal topics. We offer a monthly newsletter filled with interesting articles and events going on at Franklin VNA & Hospice and other community centers. If the holidays get you down sign up for our grief group which takes place before the holidays. We also offer 1 on 1 drop-in session if you prefer. Senior Centers offer socialization and once a month you will find us there checking blood pressures and providing education. Our education nurse develops and hands out the monthly “Call Button” newsletter filled with puzzles and interesting information to entertain most everyone. I hear it’s not to be missed.
Most recently we were welcomed into a local assisted living facility, and once a month our staff plan and provide a craft for the residents there. It brings smiles not only to the residents’ faces but to our staff as well. Our staff enjoy the time they get to spend helping seniors doing something fun. Building connections and forming relationships is what it is all about. This upcoming fall is bound to be filled with even more activities, a little something for everyone. If you know someone who struggles with the change in seasons, please reach out our team to be provided with resources to ensure that seniors get access to the care or service needed.
In closing, embrace change, play in the leaves this Fall, make a snowman in the Winter, keep a watchful eye for the tulips to sprout in the Spring, and lean your head back and let the sun warm your face in the Summer. Change is inevitable and the more we can prepare for the changes, the better we will navigate through them.
Franklin VNA and Hospice is here to support you and the community’s needs. Thank you for choosing Franklin VNA and Hospice as your Home Health and Hospice agency and for sharing your experience with our services with others. It is because of you that we are able to continue to remain a small independent hometown agency.
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