“Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don’t have.” -Anthony Bourdain
I am currently interviewing potential new team members. While meeting with each candidate I always consider how they fit with the rest of us and how they will better our team as a whole. “We hire character and train skill” is already part of our Retirement Connection Creed; but it is important that this is always more than just words on a page.
“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out— because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.”
– Pastor Martin Niemöller
Some things are beyond my personal control, but at a minimum, I can protest, write letters, send donations, and offer prayers. I can ensure that the issues that affect the welfare of others are present in my mind and conversations, now and not just when I feel the pain.
“Normalize I’m willing to work on that instead of That’s just how I am.” — Unknown
I have realized then when someone gives me feedback, I tend to deflect and defend rather than just listen. I am working harder to acknowledge the feedback, rather than reply. I often prefer to solve a problem, rather than just hear the concern. Sometimes the best support we can offer others is a listening ear.
“A mistake which makes you humble is much better than an achievement that makes you arrogant.” — Unknown
Success can be an excuse for continued bad behavior because we may not feel the immediate repercussions of our negative actions. We learn faster and grow more from our mistakes, as long as we are willing to pivot. Don’t let a speed bump become a stop sign, keep driving forward!! Embrace your mistakes and fail forward.
“Calm seas never made a good sailor.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
Calm seas don’t test a sailor’s skills, knowledge, or perseverance. The same is true in our personal and professional lives. We learn more in rough waters because we are forced to make crucial decisions- without the luxury of added time or resources. We must rely on the knowledge available, and our ability to find that extra bit of energy and grit. For me, the past months have included: sending my oldest to college, my husband’s cancer, and a business pivoting post covid. After the storm, you know where you fell short, where you succeeded, and what you learned. I am still learning!
In 2019, there were 3 million emergency visits for older adults who had fallen. Falls among adults 65 and older resulted in 34,000 deaths that same year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Thankfully, falls are not an inevitable part of aging. There are things you can do to reduce the risk of falls and remain independent.
Those who are younger or living independently are at a lower risk of
injury from a fall than those who are older, more frail or institutionalized and require assistance or support. Frail adults are the most likely to experience a serious injury, fracture, traumatic brain injury or death from a fall than any other age group.
Understand the Reality of Falls
It is important that older adults accept that falls are not a normal part of aging and if they are falling, there is almost always a reason why. Discussing noticeable changes with a physician can identify underlying causes.
Become a Fall Risk Manager
The primary role of a fall risk manager is to pay attention every day. Regularly screening for risk factors will allow for early identification and intervention.
Manage Medications
Older adults and their families need to know that many medications can lead to an increased risk of falls and other problems. Be aware of medications that cause confusion or sleepiness.
Manage Nutritional Status
Older adults’ nutritional needs change. The better they eat, the more energy they’ll have to engage in the activities that keep them strong and steady on their feet.
Increase Activity
Most older adults lead sedentary lives. The more we sit, the weaker our legs become and the more likely we are to experience a fall due to lack of strength and poor balance.
Consider Home Safety
Home is one of the safest places to be, but it is important to educate older adults to continually monitor for fall risk factors and modify as needed. Place daily items within reach. Ensure clear pathways and ample light throughout the home. Install grab bars in bathrooms and inside showers.
Aging can impact our balance and other risk factors associated with falls. However, understanding what can lead to a fall is the f rst step in reducing your risk of falling along with managing risk factors which lead to improved outcomes. Request a fall screening, look
at ways to make your home safer and don’t accept that falls are a normal part of aging.
Article Provided by:
ComForCare
503-400-6637
“Some talk to you in their free time, and some free time to talk to you.” — Unknown
I’m busy, you’re busy, we are all busy! I hear about “time management” strategies all the time, but we all have 24 hours in the day- no more no less. So, we really are not managing “time”. But we can manage our priorities. We can make people our priority. I want to be the person who makes time for others, and I want to surround myself with those that make time for me.
“In teamwork, silence isn’t golden. It’s deadly.” — Mark Sanborn
Teamwork isn’t just part of a business, it also exists in families and friendships as well. When we don’t communicate our concerns, feelings, or hopes we leave a void for others to fill in the gaps. Unfortunately, what they create to fill in the gaps, may not be what we intended. Use your words!
It isn’t always easy to pinpoint when staying at home is no longer the best option. Here are a few factors to consider that it’s time for a more supportive environment for yourself or a loved one:
If you see any of these warning signs, it may be time to start the conversation. Assisted living can provide a robust social life and activity calendar, increased physical activity, improved nutrition, and daily living assistance like housekeeping, laundry, medication management, and more, resulting in less stress and more peace of mind.
Article Provided by:
Rogue River Place
541-205-4718
