Originally published on NBC News:
Older adults need to eat more protein-rich foods when they’re trying to lose weight, dealing with a chronic or acute illness, or facing a hospitalization, according to a growing consensus among scientists.
During these stressful periods, aging bodies process protein less efficiently and need more of it to maintain muscle mass and strength, bone health and other essential physiological functions.
March 13, 2019
Dear Debbie,
Dealing with the loss of one who was so special to me is very difficult. I wanted to make sure that you knew how important Middleton was to mom and especially to me. When mom first arrived to the AL side, she was welcomed by all your staff. The aides, nurses, hairdresser and cafeteria staff as well as the custodial staff was always helpful, find and cheerful to her. She felt like she belonged, I was so confident that she would be happy there. All of you in the front offices, you, Max, Cathy, Jan and others were always friendly and helpful to me, I too, felt like I belonged.
My mom and I enjoyed the many activities your activity personnel planned for residents. We especially enjoyed hanging out at the pub singing songs (yea Patty), the music performances by those regular singers and special guests from Granville schools. Each special occasion dinner (Thanksgiving, Easter, Luau, etc.) was so much fun and something Mom, my brother and I looked forward to. I have many pictures to help me remember those fun times.
As mom’s dementia became more and more of an issue and her confusion and anxiety increased, it was with great tact Kelly talked to me about moving her to the Memory Care Unit. This was the greatest thing for mom and I. I can never explain how important Kelly is to your unit and to me. Her compassion, humor and knowledge round out the love she feels and shows to each person in Memory Care. I hope you realize what a treasure Kelly is! The aides and nurses in the unit were incredible to mom and me. They could tell how much she had lost, but still treated her like family and laughed when she was silly and were gentle and kind and loving no matter how many times she asked the same questions or was confused. It takes an incredible spirit to work with dementia residents. Getting mom into hospice was also an easy transition and so incredible.
During those last weeks, all of us could recognize how much mom was failing and yet every member of Middleton was so supportive to me and caring toward mom. With tears streaming down my face, I can’t possibly thank you and your staff for showing your love and respect for her. More than 15 workers (from the Cafeteria, aides, nurses, activity people) came to see her one last time for a hug or kiss. Some were lucky enough to get that smile or hug back. What a tribute to her and a testament of your incredible Middleton family.
Everywhere I go, I compliment the job you all do at Middleton to be the perfect place for many as they age. My sincerest thanks. I will miss you all
Lisa D
