Walker Rehabilitation shared the following story as part of ANHA’s 75 Stories of Care initiative. Daniel’s story also marks a meaningful milestone for ANHA’s 75 Stories of Care initiative, representing the 25th story shared as part of the campaign celebrating ANHA’s 75th anniversary.
Daniel is the youngest resident at Walker Rehabilitation Center and the youngest resident RN Elizabeth Dodd has cared for during her nursing career. Over the past eight months, she says caring for Daniel has reinforced the importance of individualized care, connection, and seeing each resident as a unique person rather than simply a patient.
“Daniel’s need for connection and bonding time really left a lasting impression on me from day one,” Dodd shared. “It reminds me how important it is to develop relationships with our residents and treat them as individuals.”
Daniel’s care routine is uniquely tailored to his specific needs. His nursing team works closely together to ensure he receives both specialized clinical care and meaningful one-on-one interaction throughout the day.
During meals, staff members sit with Daniel, talk with him, and provide the bonding time he enjoys. His family also partnered with facility leadership to create a secure sleeping space that keeps him safe while allowing staff to carefully monitor his routines and communication cues.
Video streaming is also constant from Daniels room to the nursing station so that everyone is aware of when he is awake and what he is doing. Staff members have learned to recognize Daniel’s unique “happy bounce” and laugh when he is ready to start his day. Once awake, he enjoys crawling around his room with protective equipment, playing with toys, and spending time with staff members who take him on excursions in his personalized wheelchair.
“For Daniel, it is important for us to show connection through bonding time and allow him to be a kid,” Dodd said. “The kid that loves Mickey Mouse, playing ball, and throwing his toys.”
We’re grateful to the facilities who have already shared their stories — keep them coming!
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