|
September Letter from the CEO
Krystin Albert; RN, BSN
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, autumn provides a wonderful opportunity to keep moving in safe and enjoyable ways. For older adults, staying active isn’t just about exercise, it’s about maintaining independence, preventing falls, and continuing to do the things that bring meaning to everyday life. At Franklin VNA & Hospice, our therapists focus on adapting movement to your environment and abilities, making physical activity practical and achievable right where you live.
Seasonal tasks can be transformed into healthy movement opportunities. Light raking, gathering fallen branches, apple picking or carrying small bags of leaves to the curb can build strength and endurance when done carefully and in short intervals. Indoors, reorganizing closets for cooler weather helps with stretching, reaching, and balance. Cooking seasonal meals, like chopping vegetables for soup or setting the table, engages fine motor skills, coordination, and standing tolerance. Even decorating for the season, whether hanging a wreath or placing pumpkins by the door, can support safe bending, lifting, and balance practice.
For days when the weather keeps you inside, our therapists recommend simple home-based routines to maintain mobility. Chair yoga, seated marching, or standing heel raises at the kitchen counter strengthen key muscles for balance. Using light weights or even soup cans for gentle arm exercises helps with endurance for daily activities. Walking laps through hallways, practicing sit-to-stands from a sturdy chair, or doing stretches before bedtime can easily be added to your daily rhythm. With small, consistent steps, you can enjoy the beauty of autumn while keeping your body strong and your independence thriving.
Autumn also encourages us to gather together as a community, strengthening the ties that support us all. Our mission in home health and hospice is not just about caring for individuals, but about fostering a sense of belonging and compassion across families and neighbors. One way we come together each year is through our Annual Hospice Ball, taking place on Saturday November 1st, 2025. This cherished tradition is more than just a celebration, it is a vital fundraiser that allows us, as a nonprofit organization, to continue providing high, quality care to patients and families regardless of financial circumstances. This year’s Hospice Ball promises an unforgettable evening of dancing, delicious food, a lively atmosphere, and opportunities to give back through our live and silent auctions. Those unable to attend have the chance to participate in our popular 50/50 raffle, with raffle tickets available for purchase now on our website https://franklinvna.org/hospice-ball/. You do not need to be present to win! By purchasing, you’re directly supporting compassionate care for those in need.
As the leaves remind us that change can be beautiful, let us carry forward the spirit of gratitude and unity. Whether through enjoying autumn activities with loved ones or joining us at the Hospice Ball, this season is a time to cherish our connections and uplift one another. Thank you for trusting us to be part of your lives and for supporting our mission of compassionate care.
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.
| 
