KUDOS from Kelly

By Kelly McNamara

This month we honor two of our caregivers who have been with the same client for several years. It takes a very special breed of caregivers to establish and maintain a positive and supportive relationship with a client over such a long period of time. And they both should be all going strong.

Maggie BoamahMaggie Boamah 
Maggie, with her eccentric hair styles at times and her exuberant manner, also is an astute observer of symptoms, changes in her client, Gert's daily activities and an extraordinary sense for when things are just "not quite right". As a result, at the ripe age of 101.5, having been under Maggie's watchful and loving care, for over three years, Gert has not had a hospitalization. No falls, no serious illnesses, no serious setbacks. And she has never missed her daily walk around the halls of the community in when she lives. Maggie will accept no excuses, it's time to walk!

The ease with which they each relate to each other is a joy you behold. The kidding, the silly remarks, the private jokes they share all enrich their relationship and maintain their happiness. Gert's family is, of course, quite fond of Maggie and grateful for her care. Maggie's family members feel genuine affection toward Gert as well. We are always seeking the perfect match in caregiver/client relationships. It seems we scored a home run with this one!w

Lydia Agyekum Lydia Agyekum
Lydia had just completed a nearly year long stint with a client who was then transferred to a skilled facility. Once she successfully managed her client's transition to the facility and helped the staff to understand her client's care, she was ready for her next challenge.

As it happened, a caregiver for another lovely lady in an assisted living facility needed to leave her position to return to school. Lydia jumped right in, making certain that her new client Bess was at ease and comfortable with her. Lydia quickly learned Bess' little quirks, her preference for late nights watching movies and chatting together along with her wishes to remain in bed until mid morning or later. Lydia used her creative talents to encourage Bess to walk, with her wish to remain in bed until mid morning or later. Lydia used her creative talents to encourage Bess to walk, attend activities on occasion, and spend time outside in warm weather. In turn, Bess taught Lydia the customs, foods, and holidays important to those of Jewish faith. Lydia has been with Bess for over 3 years. Like many long-term caregivers, Lydia is quite fond of all of Bess' family. It's safe to say their feelings are mutual.

Thank you, Lydia and Maggie for showing us all the joys and enrichment of life that long term care giving brings to our clients and their families

All caregivers mentioned in this column will receive a gift card and our sincere appreciation! Many many thanks to all of you for once again extending yourselves to ensure that we are of course Always There...!! ■