Fresh perspective

[AmyB]

There are so many other threads about what you hate/dislike about your job, unit, aides, etc., that I wanted to share a new perspective. What do you all love about working in LTC???

For me, it's all about the moments, some are brief flashes in time, when the residents can express their appreciation. I was helping one resident get her feet on the footrests of her wheelchair and I asked if there was anything else she needed. She took my face with both hands, gave me a big kiss on the cheek, and said, "No, thank you." That made my day and still makes me smile when I think about it.

Yes, there are some truly cruddy days at work, but the others more than make up for it. What are your favorite moments in LTC?

[MDSlady]

I LOVE talking to my residents. We have one lady who will be 106 in January. Alittle forgetful, but pretty much on the money. I love her stories. I love to listen to them about their younger years, many with the wars. I also love the confused patients. There is always a laugh there. I also love the families who appreciate that I care about their family members. It's not just a job to me. You get to meet so many wonderful families, the gifts and everday thank you's for the update phone calls, etc. is great. Don't get me wrong, we have all dealt with those families that we can live without, but the good truly does outweigh the bad with me. I wouldn't give up my LTC job for any other........

[lovingtheunloved, ASN, RN]

I love my job. I'll be there at least 5 more years. I work on an Alzheimer's unit, so there's never an end to the funny things that happen. I could write a book. I just generally love caring for the elderly, specifically. They have so much wisdom, and I'm just a kid. They've lived long, productive lives that have paved the way for my generation to enjoy the freedoms and other things that we do. I love making the end of their lives comfortable and dignified.