Published: November 06, 2009 09:21 pm      

Alverno facility program receives state recognition

DES MOINES — The Alverno Health Care facility was recently recognized by the Iowa Health Care Association for their specialized End of Life Program at an awards luncheon held in Des Moines.

A Quality Care Program Award was presented to the Alverno in recognition of the extensive program the organization has developed to assist individuals and their families as they enter the end of life process.

The admission coordinator, social workers and many other staff members spend a great amount of time speaking with residents and families regarding their medical needs and desires as well as final wishes. When a resident enters the end of life stages, spiritual guidance and support are offered. A comfort basket filled with various items, such as a CD player and soothing music, lotions and prayers is shared with the resident and their family. As a sign of respect when a resident has passed away, prayers are offered for staff, family members and visitors who wish to be present. Also, the deceased is draped with a quilt prior to being escorted out the facility’s front doors by staff, family and other residents who cared for them.

“We feel it is so important to honor the living and the deceased and this is another way we are able to carry out our mission at the Alverno,” said Libby Goodman, Alverno administrator.

The Alverno continues to provide support and care by presenting each family of the deceased with a Willow Tree Serenity Angel.

“Often times, our staff members are able to personally attend the services and give the Serenity Angels to the families as a sign of respect, and out of love for the deceased who became very important to them while at our facility,” said Goodman.

Families are then invited to participate in a quarterly memorial service which offers an opportunity for staff and residents that were unable to attend visitation and funeral services to grieve and celebrate the lives of those they were friends with and cared for.

The Quality Program Awards are presented by the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA). IHCA, located in West Des Moines, is a nonprofit trade association that represents approximately 550 nursing homes, assisted living programs, residential care facilities and elder group homes in Iowa. For more information on long-term care in Iowa, visit www.iowahealthcare.org.

The Alverno has been providing care for seniors throughout Clinton County for 95 years. They currently offer a specialized unit for individuals in need of therapy and intensive nursing services prior to returning home, as well as long term care and memory care. For more information about the services provided at the Alverno Health Care facility, contact Deane Patten at 242-1521.