Independence – Catherine Sabatini, NAAP Professional Development Director
We all just remembered Independence Day, and most likely celebrated the day with our residents. We honored the men and women who laid down their lives so we can all have the freedom of independence that provides us with our own self-worth and the autonomy to choose our surroundings.
The meaning of independence has become foreign to our residents as they struggle daily to accomplish their own personal needs and assume responsibility for their own decisions. Many of our residents have been financially destroyed, emotionally torn, and their physical and cognitive freedoms have been compromised. Their long careers and social lives are shattered. As Activity Professionals, we need to be the ones who bring and encourage independence in each resident no matter the diagnosis or disability.
We, the Activity Professionals, need to provide moments that will promote individual self-value and self-esteem. Residents’ care plans should inspire independence, and our calendars should be the residents’ tool for accomplishing a successful day.
Remember you, the Activity Professionals, are the residents’ heroes that lay the pathway for their independence in their new life in your facility.
