If you live with or care for an older adult, the approach of the fall season is a great mnemonic device to focus attention on a leading health threat for seniors—the risk of falls. In fact, according to the CDC, more than 1 in 4 older adults report falling each year and about 37% of falls results…
Aging well is a big topic. It’s something we all strive for, which is likely why it’s inspired an entire wellness industry. At The Nathaniel Witherell, we’re blessed to count several centenarians among our residents. They’ve aged well, weathering many of life’s storms. But they also have something to teach us about longevity from their…
Aging in place has been receiving a lot of attention lately, and it’s often a discussion older adults have with their family members. On the plus side, being in familiar surroundings and following the same old routine is comforting. But it’s also important to know that as we get older, our bodies change. Aging brings…
Maintaining social distance from elderly family members during the pandemic was challenging but necessary. Now, as more people are fully vaccinated, we’re reveling in those joyful reunions. For those whose parents or grandparents live independently, that first visit after months apart can offer valuable insight into a senior’s health and well-being. Typically, adult children notice…
The job of a social worker in a skilled nursing facility is challenging and complex. It generally involves overseeing the psycho-social well-being of hundreds of seniors, while also supporting family members before, during, and after the transition of a loved one to long-term care. During the last year, however, the pandemic brought new challenges: health…
As spring approaches, optimism is in the air! As of this writing, most of our residents have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and we continue to make strides in vaccinating all staff. New federal data now show that the number of new COVID-19 cases in nursing homes has dropped dramatically since December, when vaccinations of…
Time and treatment are critical when caring for someone with sepsis—the body’s life-threatening response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. But once someone survives sepsis, the journey is often not over. For that reason, the Witherell’s Sepsis Care Program is an important resource for patients, physicians, and hospital…
In early January, the Nathaniel Witherell began vaccinating our residents and staff against COVID-19. As of today, many at our facility have been fully vaccinated and our clinics will continue providing vaccinations this month. In the words of our medical director, Dr. Frank Walsh, “It’s important for us all to do everything we can to…
When you have a parent who is an older adult, gatherings during the holidays present a great opportunity to get a sense of how they’re doing, both physically and emotionally. You might notice that things aren’t quite what they should be; there may be signs of decline. Questions come to mind, like: Has dad lost…
