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PubMed · 17128675

Developing programs for older adults in a faith community.

Georgine M Redmond
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Abstract

I have worked in all areas of nursing, from staff and head nurse positions to faculty and administrative positions, but my work as a parish nurse, particularly with our community of older adults, is one of the most challenging and rewarding areas of nursing practice I have ever experienced. Recently, one of our independent older adult parishioners, Marge, suddenly had a marked decrease in her ability to function, which was precipitated by two trips to the hospital and surgery. She went from living independently to living in a skilled care unit, no longer able to walk or perform activities of daily living without assistance. I had known Marge for only 2 years. When she became ill, I visited her weekly during the last 4 months of her life, as she had no family in the area. During my visit one evening as I helped Marge get ready for bed, she left me with a very poignant memory. After sharing some hair-raising stories about her care at this facility, she said, "Georgine, you're my best friend. You're the only one I can tell these things to and I know you understand."

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Activities of Daily LivingAgedGeriatric NursingHumansLonelinessNarrationNurse's RoleNurse-Patient RelationsPastoral CareJournal Article

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Georgine M Redmond. 2006. Developing programs for older adults in a faith community.. https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20061101-03

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