Your Capitol Lakes Foundation has always prioritized supporting our team members who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in service to our community. The Covid-19 pandemic has only strengthened that commitment.
I don’t need to tell you that Capitol Lakes’ employees are facing unprecedented challenges right now as they strive to provide the best care possible to our residents. Those challenges are perhaps most poignant for caregivers in our memory care unit. How can you provide quality care to a particularly vulnerable population during a time of physical and social distancing? How can you foster meaningful connections and comfort to those who may be grieving separation from family and friends?
These questions, among many others, were tackled by Teepa Snow – a well-respected dementia care specialist working in the field for over 40 years. Capitol Lakes Foundation Board Director, Dr. Barbara Bowers, alerted Capitol Lakes’ staff to her webinar. We had several staff take the initiative to complete the training and one team member who took the extra step of sharing a written synopsis of key takeaways with her colleagues.
Teepa’s recommendations include announcing yourself and your purpose while you are 6 feet away. Masks can muffle voices making it hard for residents to hear, but by stating your name and the reason for your visit at a safe distance you can put residents at ease. Furthermore, Teepa encourages all staff to take responsibility for engaging residents in activities and conversation. Our residents are normally very active and social - sharing meals and activities. At a time when this is not possible, social interaction from staff can greatly increase quality of life.
As always, Capitol Lakes’ staff demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond for our residents. During these difficult days we are grateful that with your support we can continue to provide our team members with the trainings and resources they need to provide the best care possible.
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