In this presentation, we will explore social wellness and how it can be used to stave off the negative impacts of loneliness and social isolation. We will look at how loneliness and social isolation is increasing in the United States as well as the effects of loneliness, isolation, perceived social support and instrumental social support on mental and physical health outcomes. Did you know that recent research suggests that loneliness may be more dangerous than smoking 15 cigarettes per day? We will discuss how to assess (and reassess) residents’ psychosocial needs in an effort to be responsive to each resident’s unique needs and situation. After discussing some of the foundation research and issues, we will spend the rest of the time exploring practical interventions and programs that can improve social engagement, wellness, and quality of life.
About the Presenter: Debbie Rayburn, RN, BSHCA, LNHA, has spent over the past 3 decades in Senior Care, serving both in for-profit and not-for-profit settings. Early in her nursing career, she stumbled upon LTC “quite by accident” and fell in love with the rewarding work of serving seniors. She has worked directly in communities as Director of Nursing, Healthcare Administrator, among many other roles. Long before CMS required QAPI, Debbie became a student of continuous quality improvement methods, with a firm belief that anything can be improved by understanding systems and applying the methods that lead to sustained improvement in care and life for residents.
Debbie has been in the role of VP of Operations for two prominent for-profit senior care companies in Oregon. For the past 18 years, she was the Chief Healthcare Officer at Pacific Retirement Services, overseeing healthcare in CCRCs in 7 states. She has been an adjunct professor at Southern Oregon University, authored memory care programs, written and taught C.N.A. certification programs, and has fought to highlight the unique and honored role of nurses who have chosen Gerontological nursing as their specialty. Desiring to continue the pursuit of excellence in long term care, she now provides consultative services to senior care settings and organizations.
Session is NAB Approved!