I doubt the R in R.E.M. stands for rehab, but that rock band spoke truth with the song, “Everybody Hurts” in 1992. Experiencing physical pain is clearly disclosed in the fine print of being human,...
Things I Think: Anxiety-busting ways, Shavasana in a closet
By
Marty Stempniak
Mar 07, 2019
Seeking an antidote for the stresses of life and long-term care, I’ve been attending yoga lately, slipping out of the office at lunchtime in my sleek yoga garb to writhe and gasp on a rubber mat. I’ll...
Gary Tetz: Hands off my salt!
By
Gary Tetz
Feb 05, 2019
Here’s a question that just popped unwelcome into my idle mind. When time taps me on the shoulder and beckons toward a long-term care facility, what should I pack?
Things I Think: Champions of change
By
Gary Tetz
Nov 02, 2018
In long-term care, massive change is always afoot. Whatever was true 20 minutes ago isn’t anymore, and the new normal will be an unrecognizable stranger by nightfall. But there’s one thing that hasn’t...
Reader poll: “How do you make your staff smile?”
Sep 05, 2018
Reader poll: “How do you make your staff smile?”
Molalla on her mind
By
Gary Tetz
Sep 05, 2018
You wouldn’t have seen any flashing lights or scurrying EMTs, but it was still a major crisis. The nursing home resident was completely out of his favorite pickles, and not just any variety would...
Park in the Visitor spot
By
Gary Tetz
Jul 09, 2018
It sits, beckoning but unattainable, just outside the entrance to your long-term care facility — the Visitor parking spot. You can see it, but don’t dare use it. Every day, in big, block letters,...
Reader poll: What do you do to unwind after a long shift at your facility?
Jun 08, 2018
“I go home and I walk my black lab, Luke. He’s very happy to see me and usually after a long day at work, most people aren’t always that friendly to you, as the boss. But, no, when you go...
Things I Think: Out of control, loving it
By
Gary Tetz
Jun 08, 2018
Pretty much any sense of personal control — in your schedule, to-do list or even life sometimes. That’s what you’ll have to give up to be a great, and happy, long-term care facility administrator....
Reader poll: What is most memorable from your first day at your current job?
May 08, 2018
“I was a newbie on the job. I worked to develop rapport with the residents and staff. I always had wanted to work with Wesley Woods. I would ride past it and hope. It has changed so drastically over...