Many of nursing home residents are distressed during bathing.  The resident may feel embarrassed, cold, uncomfortable, in pain, or feel they have no privacy.  Ninety percent of residents require some assistance with bathing.  The experience should be made pleasurable.  It is important to know the person, have good communication, a flexible schedule and a variety of techniques.  There are no regulations dictating a resident must have a shower or a tub bath or the number of times per week.  Ombudsmen often assist residents having unpleasant bathing experiences.  Many residents may respond better if the experience is referred to as a “wash off” as opposed to a bath or shower.  The…

May is Older American Month and every May, the Administration on Aging, part of the Administration for Community Living, leads our nation’s observance of Older American’s Month. This year theme is “Engage at Every Age”, emphasizes that you are never too old (or young) to take part in activities that can enrich your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Partaking in activities that promote mental and physical wellness, offering your wisdom and experience to the next generation, seeking the mentorship of someone with more life experience than you are just few examples of what being engaged means. The ombudsman program would like to invite you to come make a difference in…