Dr. Kurt Bravata, a family physician for geriatric medicine, primary care and addiction recovery in southwest Missouri, recently wrote an article for the American Academy of Family Physicians.
In the article, Bravata shared his own experience with caring for the elderly, which did not start out in a positive way. For his first try, he lasted only two days working as a personal care assistant in a nursing home.
“Of course, this was long before I became a doctor,” he said. “When I was 17, my mom, who is a nurse, encouraged me to try working as a personal care assistant at a nursing home. I wasn't ready for that level of personal care yet, but I didn't give up on the nursing home altogether. I quickly regrouped and took a job as an activities assistant at the same facility. I enjoyed two years there, helping keep the residents stimulated and active.”
Each day, approximately 10,000 Americans celebrate their 65th birthdays. In 2030, when the last of the “Baby Boomers” turn 65, an estimated 18 percent of the population in the U.S. will be 65 or older.
Sadly, some caregivers have difficulty offering help to elderly loved ones. This is why proper care in nursing homes is crucial, as it improves patient health and outcomes.
