2 minute read
Metoyer Moten
The IGO performs primarily for groups of retired older adults and area nursing home residents.
--Stairlift continued from page 12.
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He laughed as he said, “They answered about a million of my questions.”
As he demonstrated all the features of his stairlift, it was evident that he had gotten all the information he wanted and really knew how to make the best use of his stairlift.
Once he made his decision to purchase, he was pleased that scheduling and installation went quickly and smoothly. The track for the stairlift is mounted onto the steps and was accomplished in a matter of hours with no mess.
Like most modern stairlifts, there is a control on the armrest as well as a remote. Since both Jude and Judy are using the stairlift right now, they use the remote to call or send the stairlift as needed.
At the door, tickets are $10 or free for persons under age 6. Tickets are available by calling Chris Gillette at 402-444-6536, ext. 1021. Tickets may also be purchased at igoomaha.org.
Jude uses a walker for balance and makes sure he has solid support when getting up and down. He pointed out that it was a simple thing to make sure that he has a walker available on both floors and to install a set of hand holds.
He also developed specific placement of his equipment and a routine to make sure he doesn’t lose his balance or get tangled up in his oxygen cord while using the stairlift. With his system in place, it works smoothly every time.
Living in his dream home for as long as possible motivates Jude Gardner.
He considered quality of life and cost when thinking about other options and making small home modifications made a lot of sense in his situation. For him, living at home means being able to use the both floors of the house and the stairlift is a valuable tool that makes it possible.
If you have a success story to share or want additional information about specific solutions mentioned in this article, feel free to reach BevVan Phillips at bphillipsotr@ gmail.com. BevVan Phillips is an Occupational Therapist with over 35 years experience helping people with home modifications and assistive technology.
The next Ombudsman training for volunteers will be June 20, 21, and 22.
During the training, the volunteers learn about residents’ rights, aging issues, Medicare, Medicaid, communication skills, how to investigate residents’ complaints, the importance of confidentiality, and federal and state rules, regulations, and laws regarding Nebraska’s longterm care facilities and assisted living communities.
Before being assigned to a long-term care facility or an assisted living community, new volunteers will make four visits to a site with an experienced Ombudsman Advocate to learn more about what the program entails. After a three-month probationary period, the new volunteers are certified as Ombudsman Advocates. Certified Ombudsman Advocates will be assigned to a long-term care facility or an assisted living community where they’ll visit for two hours a week to meet with administrators, residents, and the residents’ family members to address concerns.
Respite Across the Lifespan
