Category Archives: Personal Reflections

“Mental Disability”

Posted on June 3, 2012 by C

According to the World Health Organization, disability is a multifaceted concept that encompasses the interplay between personal attributes and environmental factors. Based on the social model, when appropriate modification and support is available, an individual with a different level of … Continue reading →

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Communication

Posted on May 6, 2012 by C

We used to have a patient with a “trach.” The new case manager was annoyed that our patient refused to use the pen and paper he gave her to “talk” to him. He didn’t realize our patient was illiterate. A … Continue reading →

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Carer, Caregriver, Care Partner?

Posted on May 1, 2012 by C

Whether we like it or not, our experience is often shaped by our language. Most of the changes we see over the past century have been fueled by our desire to show greater respect for all individuals. For example, while … Continue reading →

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Music in My Heart

Posted on April 12, 2012 by C

This is a really beautiful video clip about a nursing home resident’s response to music: The Power of Music *** Music has the power to bring people together, heal, uplift, and transform the lives of many. Many years ago, I … Continue reading →

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Spring Forward

Posted on March 11, 2012 by C

Spring is near. My neighbor used to bring me flowers from her garden all the time. That always brought a smile to my face. You can also “bring” your garden to your elderly friends and relatives. Bring flowers or pictures … Continue reading →

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The Heart of the Matter

Posted on March 6, 2012 by C

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/06/doctors-patients-heart-care-decisions-american-heart-association_n_1323790.html This is an excellent article, and extremely timely. This is the type of discussion we engage in on a regular basis. Dying is terrifying for some, but living isn’t necessarily easier. My favorite piece of advice: “Considering palliative care, … Continue reading →

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Supper Time

Posted on March 3, 2012 by C

*I promised the two individuals who inspired me to write this piece that I would “publish” it somewhere some day. After being turned down twice elsewhere, I figure it’s best I post it on my own blog. *** The hallway … Continue reading →

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All About Food (Concluding Comments)

Posted on January 31, 2012 by C

There are always things we don’t want to see or hear, but the more we try to avoid the complexity of the issue, the more confusing it will be. Most of us don’t cope well with things we don’t understand. … Continue reading →

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All about Food (Part I)

Posted on January 24, 2012 by C

What makes a story reach your heart? Growing up around my grandma’s kitchen, food is the key to my stomach as much as it is to my heart. Access to food and water is a basic human right, vital to … Continue reading →

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I Feel Your Pain

Posted on January 12, 2012 by C

We have been talking about the mind-body connection for years. Having such an awareness is a good thing, but using it to explain away someone’s pain isn’t. There are many sophiscated models out there that attempt to explain the connection … Continue reading →

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