Like many things in 2020, December activities in Kentucky’s nursing homes are challenging. Jenny Cline is the social service director for Good Shepherd Health and Rehabilitation in Pike County.
Cline says prior to COVID-19 churches, school groups, and individuals were much involved during the holiday time. “Usually would start here around the first of December and we had almost something special every day. So, they’re going to miss that. So any extra gift they can get I think will just lift their spirits,” said Cline.
Cline said earlier in the pandemic many community residents participated in a campaign to see extra snacks delivered to the Phelps long term care facility. She noted just one more visit by a staff member to hand residents a snack makes a difference. “It makes a very big difference. You would be surprised to see some faces. Something simple like a Little Debbie cake just makes their day,” noted Cline.
Some organized programs provide gifts during this Christmas time. The Nursing Home Ombudsman Agency’s 12th annual Silver Bells gift drive is collecting items through December ninth. For more information go to ombuddy.org.
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