avila news spring 2010

for Excellence in Aging & Community Well-ness at the University of New York at Albany, the It’s Never 2 Late Company in Denver, Colorado, and two of the facilities served by the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, AIG has a grant to explore how modern tech-nology can be used to enhance and improve person-centered care. It’s Never 2 Late (IN2L) is a computer based technology for use with elders and it has been in use for several years, mostly in recreation and rehabilitation programs. Working with two researchers from Albany and staff for two facilities, the grant will be used to study and measure improvement in personalized care planning and program-ming. Until now, the benefits of using IN2L have largely been based on anecdotal evi-dence. This study and resulting changes in design and implementation could once again put the Carmelite Sisters in the posi-tion of leading the way to a new and far more individualized care of the aged. Mother Angeline would be proud!

By TEDDI ToMSIC

“The challenge of providing high quality care is ours. We are the standard-bearers against those who would exploit the infirmity of old age for their own profit.” — Mother Angeline Teresa, o.Carm

Mother Angeline was a real leader! She knew that she needn’t worry about do-ing everything herself ... not even coming up with every great idea. Like all good leaders she knew to trust God and surround herself with people who could help her ac-complish her Mission. First, she accepted women who possessed different gifts and then challenged them to use their God’ given talents to serve the “dear old people”. Under her gentle leadership, the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm grew and flourished and in no time were being hailed as an inspi-ration to others in how to care for the aged. They lead the way in things like providing occupational therapy, physical therapy, resi-dent’s rights, and spiritual care. Today, the Avila Institute of Gerontology (AIG) continues the tradition of Mother An-geline by providing up to date education in topics such as dementia care, palliative care, fund-raising and, of course, the latest regu-latory changes and challenges. Recently however, AIG received a grant from the Re-tirement Research Foundation that will once again put the Carmelite Sisters in the fore-front of current methods of care. Working in partnership with the Center

Long Term Care Conference Captures the Essence of Challenges in HealthcareRead about last year’s october Long Term Care Conference on page 8.

Teresian House Receives “Excellence in Care Dementia Program of Distinction” Award from AFARead the full story about Teresian House receiving this award on page 6.

AVILA INSTITUTE of GERoNToLoGY, Inc. SPRING 2010 NEWSLETTER

Avila Institute News

Geriatric Spiritual Care Course BeginsRead about the importance of Geriatric Spiritual Care and this year’s program on page 11.

Do You Know if Its Alzheimer’s? Avila Institute is offering a 5 hour seminar all about Alzheimer’s Disease and the different types of dementia. Read about it on page 11.

Featured ArticlesAvila Institute Partners to Study Effects of Technology in Person-centered Care

Avila Institute is currently working with researchers from the University of Albany to study and best utilize the technology built by It’s Never 2 Late, currently being used to aid elders.

2 Avila Institute News • Spring 2010

MISSION: TO ENHANCE THE MINISTRY OF THE CARMELITE

SISTERS FOR THE AGED AND INFIRM BY PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY, AFFORDABLE

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS RELATED TO THE CARE OF THE ELDERLY. THE

INSTITUTE CREATES OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS TO SHARE EXPERIENCES AND KNOWLEDGE REGARDING THEIR

WORK WITH THE AGED AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE FIELD OF GERONTOLOGY

THROUGH WORKSHOPS, PUBLICATIONS AND STUDIES.

AIG Newsletter

PUBLISHER Sr. M. Peter Lillian Di Maria, O. Carm.

GRAPHIC DESIGN Erin Pietrak

CONTACT INFORMATIONAvila Institute

of Gerontology, Inc.600 Woods Road

Germantown, NY 12526

518.537.5000518.537.4725 fax

[email protected]

AIG Newsletter is published bi-yearly by the Avila Institute

of Gerontology, Inc.

This newsletter is intended for educational purposes only.

It is not a substitute for formal medical training in one of the health care

professions, nor is it a substitute for professional

medical advice.

For more specific information you may have to consult a health

care professional. The Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc. does not assume

any liability if this information is used for anything other than

educational purposes.

All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or

part without permission from the Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc.

SPRING 2010

© 2010 Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc.

A Letter from the PresidentI was thumbing through a book by Laurie Beth Jones entitled Jesus — CEo and came upon many interesting chapter headings. one of the chapters

that stood out was entitled, “He Saw Them as God’s Gifts to Him.” I was curious as to what this chapter was about so I read it. As it turned out, Jesus was saying how people were God’s gifts to him. People were not projects to be completed nor corporate pawns to be maneuvered until the plan was in place. They were gifts to him. Have we ever stopped to think about the people that are gifts to us? As I began to think about all the people that we work with in our facilities, I realized that they are definitely gifts to us and to the residents. They come to work everyday, bring all their particular talents to their job, and in turn, assist us in carrying out the Mission of Mother Angeline Teresa to our residents. Do we appreciate their efforts, do we teach them everything that they need to know, do we encourage them with stories of Mother Angeline so that they can really understand our Mission?

Sr. Michelle Anne Reho, o. Carm.President, Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc.

one of the goals of the Avila Institute is to offer education to not only our own facilities, but to any organization who is caring for the elderly. We already offer programs to nursing homes, but this year, we are also offering some programs to Catholic hospitals and to volunteers who are visiting the homebound (Mother Angeline Ministries). Through education, we hope to share Mother Angeline’s philosophy wherever we can. Another goal of the Avila Institute is to collaborate with the Carmelite System to offer programs to Sisters and staff in the area of Health and Wellness. We all know that our health is one of the greatest gifts we have and we would like to help everyone preserve that gift. As we continue our work this year, the Avila Institute of Gerontology will continue to cherish the gift of all the Sisters and staff of our facilities as well as the staff, benefactors, volunteers, and teachers of the Institute.

In This Issue Spring 2010 A Letter from the President 2

Director’s Report 3

Employees at St. Patrick’s Manor and Carmel Terrace Enjoy Health and Wellness Fair 4

Thumbnail Sketches in Wisdom 5

Helping to Share the Philosophy of Mother Angeline 6

Teresian House Receives Award from Alzheimer’s Foundation of America 6

Grandparents Day ... A Day of Fun and Family 7

Long Term Care Conference Captures the Essence of Challenges in Healthcare 8

The “Italy or Bust” Jar 10

Geriatric Spiritual Care Course Begins 11

Do YoU Know if Its Alzheimer’s? 11

Hospitals Can Now “Lead the Way” in Dementia Care Training Back Cover

Avila Institute News can be found at our website www.avilainstitute.org.

3Spring 2010 • Avila Institute News

I think we can agree that many issues involving our healthcare ministry

are extremely complex. While it is important to discuss the challenges confronting healthcare providers from a variety of perspectives, it is important that we, as Catholic Long-term Care always give voice to the needs of the aged and infirm, who are entrusted to our care. Increasingly, the focus of the debate can become side tracked and tragically, amid all the discussion over the need to lower costs and improve access, the resident is seldom seen as a “person made in the image and likeness of God” – but rather as a “cost-center” with the potential of either generating a profit or a loss. We all worry about what the future will bring. We spend countless hours at meetings discussing how to insure that the ministry will survive the tumultuous years

ahead. Looking back upon my over thirty years in the healthcare ministry, I realize now that change is inevitable and the ability to be open to change is critical for survival. The technology may change, the reimbursement methodologies may change, and the governmental regulations may change. our philosophy of care however, that which is the essence of our identity must never change. Catholic healthcare was founded not only to care for the physical concerns but also the spirit and soul of the person we serve. Consequently, while Catholic healthcare providers may have to change the “HoW,” we must never change the “WHY.” We are going to continue to see new theories, best practices and much more as we try to provide the best care for our aged and infirm. In the midst of all the impending changes in the healthcare delivery system, we must remember that we, in the Catholic

healthcare ministry, are invited, as was Veronica, to literally wipe the face of the suffering Christ. The anxieties over whether healthcare will survive should not consume our energies but rather we should allow our energies to be consumed by our ministry– believing healthcare is surviving because we bring the healing mission of Jesus alive by our example of Love in action. Serving the aged and infirm is a privilege and as our Foundress, Mother Mary Angeline Teresa, o.Carm. reminded us, “Charity is Love in Action.” Let us pray we continue to be known by our love and TRUST THAT the mission we share will guide the complexities we may encounter.

Sr. M. Peter Lillian DiMaria, o. Carm. Director, Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc.

Director’s ReportKeeping the CARE in HealthCARE

We’ll Bring Quality Programs to Your DoorIn the last few years AIG has noticed that it has become harder and harder for facilities, caregivers and staff to find the time and resources to attend continuing education seminars and workshops. Therefore, AIG will come to you. You supply the students and AIG will supply expert speakers with the most up-to-date information that will enrich the lives of your elders and their caregivers.

Available Seminars Include:

Empowering Your Staff Towards Resident Centered Care

Through this 5-hour seminar, caregivers will learn the necessary steps to develop and assess dementia care programs; witness and understand the limitations of dementia through Dementia Simulation; and learn how to build a strong team to successfully implement Dementia programs. (5 hrs)

Is It Alzheimer’s?

There are many causes of Dementia and understanding the cause is crucial in deciding how to minister to each person based on his/her individual diagnosis. This seminar discusses the different types of Dementia, care issues that arise, recent studies, family concerns and ways to enhance family visits. (5 hrs)

We offer many other topics and are always happy to tailor a program to your specific needs. Please call Sr. Peter Lillian Di Maria at 518.537.5000 for more information.


St. Patrick’s Manor & Carmel Terrace want-ed to have a Health and Wellness Fair for their employees. When Sister Maureen, SPM Administrator, gave us the green light, it was like being shot out of a cannon. It was exciting and scary at the same time. This was going to be a lot of work, or so we thought. What should it be like? What could we offer? Who would pull it together? Who had the time!!! Well, as it turned out, we all found the time and it was wonderful. All departments pitched in. As I look back at what we thought was going to be a lot of work, it actually turned out to be the best team building experience ever. Nobody had second thoughts. We worked together and the end result was more than we could have hoped for. Each department was in charge of their own table and presentation. Talk about healthy competition…who would make the largest display…who would have the best handouts…what gimmick could

we use to draw employees to our table…it was just great. We had more laughs over that. Also, each department had some-one at their table at all times to answer any questions. We had between 250 and 300 employ-ees and Sisters attend. our local hospital, Metro West Medical Center, screened for cholesterol and blood glucose. The results were ready in 5 minutes. At first people were reluctant to be screened. Do we really want to know if we have high cholesterol? Well, of course, we do. Finally one brave soul walked up to the table, rolled up her sleeve and the rest is history. As they say, you couldn’t get near the place. People were waiting 2 and 3 deep. They actually ran out of test kits. Then it was off to have our glucose checked at the other end of the table. Again, it was like waiting in line at Filenes Basement when those designer wedding gowns go on sale and everyone rushes in. It was great. We were all compar-ing our cholesterol and glucose numbers

and bragging, just a bit, if our num-ber was low. Representatives from Ameri-cas Vein Centers were there and explained the importance of cir-culation and healthy veins. They also offered free screenings. To be honest I was surprised to see so many people at that table. I guess, in the past, many of us thought people took care of bad veins be-cause they looked terrible. Now we know the possible health risks and that’s important. Staff Development took blood pressures. Again, at first, people were reluctant to “know” the num-

bers. What if it’s high? Do I want to know that? of course, you do. So, one by one, we bravely took our turn and most people were happy with the results. Some were not so happy (yours truly). But don’t be concerned. In my case, I was fortunate enough to be ambushed in my office the following morning…away from the hoopla of the event. The nurse walked in and told me to roll up my sleeve and she took my blood pressure again. It was fine, despite the fear she struck in me when she suddenly appeared with blood pressure cuff in hand. Now, who cares enough to scare ? our nurses, that’s who. And then there was the food. We can’t say enough about Nutritional Services. What a display of delicious and healthy foods. I think I even saw some “doggie bags” make it out of there. The salads, the humus, the freshly made dressings, the sandwiches and fruits and yogurts were absolutely delicious. our Dietitians made little cards and placed them near the foods that were offered with the food’s nutri-tional value. So despite the rumors to the contrary, delicious, healthy foods do exist. our Dietitians didn’t have to make those

Employees at St. Patrick’s Manor and Carmel Terrace Enjoy Health and Wellness FairStory Submitted By MARSHA DIDoNATo of St. Patrick’s Manor, Framingham, MA

Nutritional Services offered a huge variety of heatlhy foods including salads, humus, freshly made dressings, sandwhiches, fruits and yogurts.

Each department was in charge of their own table and presentation. They created their own visuals and handouts for fellow employees.


ployee’s hands. Then she had the employee wash their hands. After that, she put the employee’s hands under an ultraviolet light and you could clearly see the bacteria that was left behind. So, we really have to pay attention to how long, how thorough and how often we wash our hands and make sure we have sanitizer on hand. Thank goodness for En-vironmental Services and Activities who set up and decorated the Tara Lounge for the fair. It looked great. Panza Shoes, a store with-in the community, set up a display of walking shoes and sneakers. Considering many of us are on our feet all day, this table received much interest and we got discount coupons to boot. A local health club, “Fo-cus on Fitness” provided discount coupons (30 days for $30). That is an afford-able way for someone to at least give it a try and see

what happens. Aetna sent us numerous handouts and we also went on-line and found other topics we wanted to copy and distribute. As I’m writing this and think-ing about all the “health benefits” related to this event, what keeps popping up in my mind are the employees and the Sisters. Every-one talked about this fair for days after. They felt wonderful that Saint Patrick’s and Carmel Ter-race cared enough to have this health fair for them. I asked my-self “what could be healthier than working with people you love?” It lifts your spirits and makes you smile. It just doesn’t get much better than that.

little cards but they did it for the employees. That’s what I’m talk-ing about…teamwork…you just have to love this place. Rehab, Staff Development and Risk Management worked together and displayed a large tri-fold on home ergonomics and body mechanics. I found out that my husband uses the wrong kind of shovel and I use the wrong kind of broom and if I want to keep gardening, I’d better change the way I bend. Infection Control gave out information on the season flu and other basic infection con-trol recommendations. In addi-tion, she gave a demonstration on hand washing. She sprinkled “glo-germ powder” on an em-

Flo inspired me in the middle of an ice cream social. Flo was in a customized wheelchair as she was unable to sit straight or to use her extremities, so she needed as-sistance with feeding. I went over to Flo and explained that the ice cream for that day’s celebration of the Fourth of July was not the usual Dixie cups but actual tubs of ice cream so we could make sundaes. I explained that the choices of ice cream were vanilla, strawberry, and choco-late. I asked her how many scoops and which flavors she would like. Flo explained that she didn’t like chocolate, was allergic to strawberry and so she opted for a scoop of vanilla. I explained that we had toppings in chocolate, strawberries, or butterscotch. Since Flo didn’t like choco-late or strawberries, I hoped that she might like butter-scotch. But that was not the case. Now, to me, a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream did not constitute much of a special treat, so I pushed on, explaining that we also had some chopped nuts, some whipped cream and some maraschino cherries. “oh!” Flo exclaimed, “I love cherry ice cream. That was my favorite!” So I cut up several cherries, used some of the ex-tra juice and stirred these together with the vanilla ice cream. I brought the dish over and offered Flo her first bite. She closed her eyes and her face filled with delight and it was clear that she was relishing a taste of long ago. Then she opened her dark clear eyes, looked right at me, and exclaimed, “oh! Life is grand!…if you don’t weaken.” I’ll never forget the pure joy in her face and I wonder, do I relish the small joys of life? If I were in a wheelchair, unable to do anything for myself, would a single bite of a loved food cause me to exclaim on the grandness of life? I can only hope that I will carry such a spirit of apprecia-tion and spontaneous joy into my own aging. Thanks for the wisdom Flo. Lesson learned!

Thumbnail Sketches in WisdomBy TEDDI ToMSIC

This is the first in a series of articles about the wisdom that residents impart to their family members and caregivers simply by being who they are. We can all learn from them.

Top Picture: Representatives from Americas Vein Centers explained the importance of circulation and healthy veins while offering free screenings.

Bottom Picture: Two employees smile for the camera while enjoying the Health and Wellness Fair.

Karin “Teddi” Tomsic is a Board Certified Chaplain, Member of National Association of Catholic Chaplains, and has worked with the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirn from 1986 to 2008. Teddi joined AIG as a part-time faculty member in 2009.


to work with their local parishes and the Mother Angeline Ministries of Care to ob-tain the higher levels of ministry. The Car-melite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm will also be working with parishes in Vermont to teach the beliefs of Mother Angeline.

The Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc is proud to announce that the Teresian House in Albany, NY, has received the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) “Excellence in Care Dementia Program of Distinction” Award. Barbara Walters, an AFA program representative, conducted a 24 hour evaluation of Teresian House’s specialized programs for their Alzheimer’s residents throughout the building. Her observations, monitoring and evaluation determined that their dedicated program was worthy of this award.

The Excellence in Care Award is one of the pioneering national programs to involve comprehensive standards, onsite evaluation and consultation to promote continual improvement for dementia care settings in assisted living, skilled nursing facilities, residential communities and adult day programs. The evaluation includes the setting’s physical environment, safety procedures, program activities, staff-client interaction and training for staff and families. The voluntary standards are part of AFA’s mission to raise the bar on dementia

care in the United States, and reflect what AFA believes to be essential components of any quality dementia care program. AFA introduced its Excellence of Care initiative in November of 2006, after design-ing the comprehensive program with input from the Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc, an AFA member organization, as well as other AFA member organizations, national organizations and industry experts. For more information about the Excellence in Care award please visit www.excellenceincare.org or call 866-AFA-8484.

Teresian House Receives Award from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

Recently the Avila Institute of Gerontology has been help-ing the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm create an educational program for outreach volunteers who at-tend the homebound. The program is called the Mother Angeline Min-istries of Care (MAMC) and consists of a series of training modules that teach the ideals and values of Mother Mary Angeline Teresa, o.Carm., the foundress of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and In-firm. Students will learn how to care and provide spiritual support for all elders especially for those in the later stages of life. The program launched this winter in Rochester, NH, working with four parishes with over 80 students eager to become “Mother Angeline Ministries of Care” Ex-traordinary Ministers. They will continue

Helping to Share the Philosophy of Mother Angeline

Mother M. Angeline Teresa, O. Carm., the Foundress of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, visiting with her beloved residents. Her beliefs and philosophy of elder care will be taught to outreach volunteers for the homebound.

The Mother Angeline Ministries of Care teaches the philosophies of Mother M. Angeline Teresa, the Foundress of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm who cel-ebrated their 80th Jubilee in 2009. The program works with parishes, offering three levels of ministry ser-vice for outreach volunteers who attend to the homebound.

For more information about this program please call Sr. M. Peter Lillian Di Maria at 518.537.5000.


St. Patrick’s Residence in Naperville, Illinois, hosted its first Grandparent’s Day on Sunday, September 13th. The event was made possible through the generosity of a grant from the Stephen Harsany Trust. Their residents enjoyed a beautiful day with their families and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In the main lobby, the children personalized Grandparent’s Day cards from a selection of six different cards. They thoughtfully colored them or wrote a loving little note inside. Everyone enjoyed the entertainment of Bubbleologist, Geoff Atkins, The Bubble Guy, who encased a willing assistant in a giant bubble, and Cinder the Clown, who was like the Pied Piper with a following of eager children, waiting to receive one of the fabulous balloon pets she created. Children of all ages enjoyed the games that included the duck and fishing derby,

the clothes pin drop and word and maze puzzles. There were also “tattoos” for the more daring. Hot dogs, chips lemonade and the ever popular, cotton candy and popcorn, filled the tummies of old and young alike. The highlight of the day was the “Dunk-A-Nun” dunk tank. Sisters Kathleen and Theresa Marie were such good sports. They donned their wet suits to test the water for what would become many trips into the cold water tank. “I haven’t had this much fun in a long time,” said one resident. “It’s such a beautiful day to be outside and I’m so happy my family is here.” St. Patrick’s was thrilled with all the families who came to spend the day with their loved ones. The day exceeded expectations, so much so, that St. Patrick’s is considering making it a yearly event. St. Patrick’s thanked the Naperville Fire Department for gladly coming out early

to fill up the dunk tank and to their many volunteers and staff who worked so hard to bring so much joy into their Home.

We Want to Hear Your Story!We are accepting stories for future newsletters. Share fun stories or stories of success about your home and / or residents. Stories can be sentto [email protected] stories will be considered for the next newsletter.

Grandparent’s Day…A Day of Fun and Family

Story Submitted By MADELENE M. BERNAR of St. Patrick’s Residence, Naperville, IL

Residents and families enjoy a day full of fun and memories at our 1st Grandparent’s Day celebration on Sunday, September 13th, 2009.


The 2009 Avila Institute Long Term Care Conference once again seemed to capture the essence of the challenges we contin-ue to face as a ministry and a healthcare industry. Each of our speakers gave us plenty to contemplate about the storms that threaten us at the helm of what can seem like a very small vessel on the open sea. However, there were speakers who re-minded us of the buoyancy of our craft. As a former Director of Mission and Pastoral Care, I was especially drawn to the ideas and thoughts of our opening speaker Brian Yanofchick from the Catholic Health Association. Most of us in attendance were from Catholic and even Carmelite institu-tions, but the message was applicable to any organization. As I listened, I realized that the mission of the organization is the key factor in success or failure. The mission of the foundation was present the day the plans were drawn for each building, each facility, the day each employee was hired. Whether an organization has a written mis-sion or not, it is felt and lived each day from the beginning. That mission can be purely survival for the least investment or it can be a ministry to an under served population. Each of these will dictate the quality of work done and will add to or detract from the organizations overall performance. Mr. Yanofchick emphasized that each person must have a sense of “owning” the mission and their part in it. He adds that if this is the case, when inevitable storms hit, the quality of the felt mission may very well be the life preserver that saves or the torpedo that sinks it all.

Yanofchick suggested that leadership can be found throughout any organization. The leaders define the culture. Culture is seen in the symbols, values, expectations, stories and heroes of any institution. With-out intentional leadership, others will take up the helm and that can leave much open to a brewing mutiny. He stated that true leaders possess qualities that he defined as pillars of leadership. These are: Self-aware-ness which is a sure knowledge of self and the ability to “reflect on the run”: Ingenu-ity which provides a comfort with change and the willingness to explore new ideas and approaches while staying anchored in mission values; Love that is the ability to stand side by side and call forth the best from another’s talent; and finally, Heroism

Long Term Care Conference Captures the Essence of Challenges in HealthcareBy TEDDI ToMSIC, Board Certified Chaplain

The Long Term Care Conference hosted over 100 participants of different health-care fields in Gerontology. Here a group discuss the latest healthcare topic at hand.

which Brian sees as imagining the future as it could be and calling others to do more than they think they can to create that vi-sion. With this type of leader on the bridge, the crew will use whatever tools are given them to complete a successful voyage no matter what storms await. All the other speakers at this year’s conference provided the necessary tools for maneuvering through the current fore-cast of storms. Julie Trocchio, also from CHA summarized the regulatory issues fac-ing long term care providers and updated us on healthcare reform, payment quality and workforce initiatives. Janet Feldcamp


of Benesch, Friedlander, Caplan & Aronoff and Associates explained all the new F-tags and how the surveyors will be able to cross-reference to double and triple check for deficiencies. Ruth West who is a con-sultant after working in regulatory compli-ance since 1985, gave us multiple options for using our Quality Assurance programs to prevent deficiencies. one approach she suggested is that we could use each day’s morning report to identify and address potential quality issues. Day two of the conference dawned with clearing skies and three speakers who

would add to our sea chest to enable our staying the course. First Terry Axelrod, Founder and CEo of Benevon, introduced a systematic model for building sustain-able funding. Ms Axelrod once again stressed that fundraising is best done with donors who are passionate about our mis-sion. Richard Fabozzi, a national speaker and trainer, helped us to explore our re-sponse to the phenomenon of change and our ability to use our intuition and creativity to guide us in problem solving. Sr. Carol Keehan the CEo of the Catholic Health Associaiton who was in Rome on

TOP LEFT: Sr. Carol Keehan, CEO of the Catholic Health Association was one of eleven speakers to present at the long term care conference. CENTER: Garrett Higgins, CPA took attendees through the redesigned 990 Tax Form. RIGHT: Avila Institute of Gerontology, President, Sr. Michelle Anne Reho welcomes participants.

an unexpected trip and kept her appointe-ment to speak with us. She again drove home the importance of using our mission in all of our decision-making. She cautioned following the folly of many who think they can “downsize to success” or settle for me-diocrity as a quality standard. Sr. Carol also answered questions and concerns about the healthcare debate in Washington. on our third day, Carol Hess of Cargas Systems explained it is vital to use our val-ues in the process of seeking potential em-ployees and holding current members of our crew accountable. She underlined the absolute necessity of starting with those in leadership positions and demanding that they practice the values we espouse. our final speaker, Garrett Higgins from o’Connor, Davies, Munns & Dobbins took us through the redesigned Form 990 giv-ing us all the necessary information to complete the tax form, showing the audits and procedures we have to remain compli-ant with as tax-exempt organizations. From beginning to end all the speak-ers used our values as the point from which any successful journey begins. In long-term healthcare, keeping our residents and their needs in the forefront of our daily ef-forts can certainly fill our sails and keep us skimming toward a beautiful horizon.

LEFT: Monday evening after the days’ presentations, participants were welcome to join a special celebration for Flos Carmeli Recipient, Monsignor John Dalton. He is pictured here with (L-R) Sr. Michelle Anne Reho, AIG President; Mother Mark Louis Randall, Superior General of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm; and Sr. Peter Lillian Di Maria, AIG Director.

Avila Institute of Gerontology is busy planning the Long Term

Care Conference for 2010, to be held on October 11-13.

We will have more information on topics and

speakers this summer.


The “Italy or Bust” Jar

The occupational Therapy Department of St. Joseph Nursing Home is always a beehive of activity. Good conversation, listening to music, and sharing memories go hand in hand with the residents’ rehab exercises. Earlier this year, one of our newest residents, who was born and raised in Italy, longed for her childhood home in Italy. She bemoaned this loss with her daily therapy companions, four Italian ladies. They strategized how they could get to Italy. They started to teach Deb Hurteau and Cheryl Ruhm, the occupational Therapy Assistants, how to say basic Italian phrases. Soon, the air was filled with the sounds of “Arrivederci,” “Come stai?,” and “Bene.” Shortly after the language lessons, the group would tour sites in Italy with our “It’s Never 2 Late” computer system. Passing in the hall, you could hear sing-a-longs with Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, and Dean Martin. It was an immersion course in all things Italian. It was just a matter of time before Maria, one of the residents, suggested an “Italy or Bust” jar. The ladies discovered on the internet that round trip airfare to Italy was $699. They would save money for this trip. As Julie Lawless, the Director of Social Work, entered oT one morning for a cup of coffee Maria asked her, “What do you think…the coffee is free?” She held out her jar. Julie gave her a dollar, and the Italy or Bust jar was born. After a month of charging staff for coffee, the ladies decided that it would take many lifetimes to raise the money for a trip to Italy. A solution was found. They would go to Delmonico’s, a local Italian restaurant, for lunch. It was the adventure of the season. Delmonico’s gave them gift certificates and a private room. Frank Sinatra was heard singing in the background. Each of the ladies picked her favorite Italian meal and they ate well. A wonderful time was topped off with Maria dancing the Tarantella.

In reflection, Deb Hurteau mentioned that this process was socializing and healing for each of the ladies. They speak fondly of their “Italian Adventure.” Their longing for home became more rooted in their home at St. Joseph Nursing Home. The impact of their coming together and forming community and support for each other can best be summed up in Maria’s words. She said, “I felt like a bigga cheese.”

TOP PHOTO: Occupational Therapy Assistant, Deb Hurteay helps Marie Moreland at the local Italian restaurant, Delmonico’s.

BOTTOM: Resident Maria Rinaldi (the bigga cheese) gets a hug from Julia Lawless, Director of Social Work during their “Italian Adventure”.

Story Submitted By KATHY PoUPART of St. Joseph Nursing Home, Utica, NY


Spiritual Care effectively, a person must also know about and respect other religious traditions and cultures. Each resident brings their own relationship with their God and it is this relationship that will provide comfort. Eight people have started the Geriatric Spiritual Care Program here at Avila. Each month, January to April, they will spend one weekend at Avila receiving training from multiple experts in

Spiritual Care. Then in May they will gain a full week of clinical experience with supervision from Sr. Joan Lewis, Director of Pastoral Care at Teresian House. This will be followed by a final celebration and presentation of certificates in June.

For more information about this program visit our website at www.avilainstitute.org.

By TEDDI ToMSIC

All things have matter. All living things also have the ability to grow. Some living things react to change with emotion while others simply change physically. Some living things are able to problem-solve and grow in intelligence building on their experiences (changes). only humans have the ability to look for meaning in all of this. It is this search for meaning in all that happens in and around us that can bring us to a state of spiritual well-being or spiritual distress. We all know that when a resident arrives at a Nursing Home it is an experience that comes after a lifetime of changes, some wonderful and fulfilling, and some far more difficult. They also come with an individual wisdom born of their family history, their culture, and their faith. All of this colors who they are

Do YoU Know if Its Alzheimer's?This year the Avila Institute of Geron-tology will continue to offer its “Is It Alzheimer’s?” 5 hour seminar. The program has been quite popular with two dates in 2009, two dates in March (the 26th in Albany, NY and the 29th in Framingham, MA), and october 18th in Florida. It is also scheduled to be a pre-assembly for the Catholic Health Association’s 2010 Assembly being held in Denver, Colorado on June 12th. Check our website www.avilainstitute.org for details. The program focuses on the many causes of Dementia, understanding the cause and how to decide the best way to minister to each person based on their individual diag-nosis. Also discussed are the different types of Dementia, care issues, recent studies, family concerns and ways to enhance family visits. Past participants have found the informa-

tion insightful and extremely beneficial for themselves and the residents they care for. The program is recommended for all healthcare professionals including Ad-ministrators, Nurses, Social Workers, Dieti-tians, Recreational Therapists and Pastoral Care Workers.

For more information about this program visit our website at www.avilainstitute.org.

The Avila Institute of Gerontology, Inc. still has dates available to offer this program at your facility. To schedule at your facility please call Sr. M. Peter Lillian Di Maria at 518.537.5000.

Geriatric Spiritual Care Course Begins

“It was not just a class — it was fun, enjoyable and very educational to learn how to care for the Alzheimer’s patient and their family.”

— PAST ATTENDEE

now and how they will handle this latest experience. Geriatric Spiritual Care helps residents come to terms with what has and is happening by using this wisdom. The person helping them to do this needs specialized training, just like their doctor, nurse or social worker. Geriatric Spiritual Care workers must know the value of their own journey and all of its components including, of course, their own faith. To do

Hospitals Can Now "Lead the Way" in Dementia Care Training

The increase of dementia among hospital patients has made many hospitals recognize the need to focus on specialized care for these patients. Hospitals are now offering staff edu-cational programs to help improve the quality of care and their bottom lines. Patients with dementia are at greater risk for serious com-plications. It is in the hospital’s best interest to train their staff to best care for these individuals. Avila Institute of Gerontol-ogy understands the special needs of those with dementia. We have taught Dementia Training Programs to dozens of Long Term Care Facilities to hundreds of staff members.

It is with this experience that the Avila Institute of Geron-tology is pleased to announce a new workshop, which addresses the many challenges faced by nursing Hospital staff in providing quality acute care to patients with an un-derlying dementia diagnosis. our oNE day training program will provide your staff with the information to best prepare them to care for patients with dementia.

The ONE day training program will examine:

• Normal aging issues

• Assessment tools for cognitive impairment

• Hallmark features of common dementias

• The progression of varied dementia conditions

• Factors contributing to life-threatening deliriums encountered in acute care environments

• Behaviors encountered with individuals with dementia that challenge delivery of care and researched based interventions.

The program will enable participants to recognize and man-age common dementias and more effectively deal with any challenges presented. We will share different practices to as-sess a person’s functional ability for developing a plan of care based on compassion and empathy. An Interactive session gives an opportunity to apply the techniques learned to help improve communications and implement appropriate interventions.

25% of hospital patients have Alzheimer’s. This num-ber is only going to go up. Are your staff prepared to handle the challenges that may arise with patients diagnosed with some form of dementia?

For more information or to book this seminar at your facility please call Sr. Peter Lillian Di Maria or John Moody at 518.537.5000.

avila news spring 2010

Documents

dementia care

palliative care

individualized care

personalized care planning

high quality care

current methods of care

carmelite sisters

years program