In my visits to the nursing home to visit Jim, I find that because I am a frequent visitor, other residents are requesting my attention. Some ask me to help them straighten their chair, or cut their meat, or move their foot on the chair pedals or just want to share a word or two. Jim's dining table companion sees me helping Jim with a mouthful of food and requests my help. I'm getting to know everyones name and I feel like a rock star when I exit the elevator or enter the dining room. I'm aware that they all want a little personal attention. Although the nurses and aides are great, like every other business these days, they are pushed to their limit on minimal staff. They are sweet to the residents and spend the time needed to fulfill each ones request, but they are busy and pulled in every direction. They thank me for my help when I move someone up to the table or get a resident to sit or pick something up for one. Just little gestures but appreciated.
Oh don't get me wrong, there are a few residents there that represent the image of the "crumpy old man". They are rude, demanding, loud and argumentive. Those I stay away from, although I have made an attempt at a friendly "Hello".I guess what is important is that everyone likes attention. Nursing homes can be sad places, but if I can make not only Jim feel better when I visit, but Donald, Sy, Richard, Dorothy, Clare, Albert, Patricia, Agnes and many others, then I guess the time I take to visit 4 to 5 times a week, is well worth it!
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