WCO Blog

When I tell people I work for the National Aphasia Association, I usually get a blank look. Then, when I describe the condition, over and over again I hear, “Oh my father had that. He couldn’t talk after his stroke. I didn’t know that’s what it was called.” Aphasia is a condition that usually results […]

Animal lovers have always known it. Now health researchers are confirming it: animals are good for your health. Just 10 minutes of physical interaction with a beloved pet can lower blood pressure and increase finger temperature—both clear signs of relaxation—according to a number of research studies. Benefits to people with high blood pressure have been […]

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that sensitive family dynamics can be one of the most challenging aspects of care giving for an elder, given the tremendous financial, physical, and emotional demands involved. This doesn’t mean that family squabbles are inevitable. In fact, if managed well, the experience of caring for an older family member has the […]

Summer is the time when most of us bring out our swimwear and hit the beach to beat the rising temperatures and searing heat of summer. Well it’s also the right time to shed few pounds as well! However instead of going for a strict diet regime that will dampen your sunshine, try to avail […]

Nurses who have left nursing for one or more years may be faced with the decision to complete a refresher program. Refresher programs are time consuming and can be costly, so thoughtful consideration is appropriate. I know of two nurses who attended programs recently, and they each have a different story. Sandra, a lifelong friend […]

Men’s activities can seem difficult to come up with to keep them occupied, stimulated and interested. Men don’t usually care to do some activities that women love to do, or not for that long. Tea parties, cooking and baking, even bingo and crafts can begin to bore some of the men who would like more […]

Men’s activities can seem difficult to come up with to keep them occupied, stimulated and interested. Men don’t usually care to do some activities that women love to do, or not for that long. Tea parties, cooking and baking, even bingo and crafts can begin to bore some of the men who would like more […]

The terms “leader” and “manager” are sometimes used interchangeably. Those of us who have worked for, or with, someone who is one and not the other will see the error in viewing those terms as synonymous. An individual can be a great leader but not a manager. Conversely, a typical nurse can be a manager but […]

For low-income seniors, the lack of access and choice are unfortunate aspects of the general senior housing industry. To promote innovative change in that sector, an exciting new healthy-aging initiative in older adult housing communities will be offered to those with limited incomes. American Baptist Homes of the West (ABHOW), an industry leader in senior […]

This month we get to meet Cindy Gashler.   Cindy has worked in the healthcare field for 13 years. She began her career as a CNA, then completed her LPN, and continued with an ADN degree.  She functioned as a Long Term Care charge nurse, Inpatient Rehabilitation nurse, MDS Coordinator, and Director of Nursing.  Following this […]

Nursing Assistant is one of the most popular careers in the health care industry. People are living longer and healthier lives than before, which means more opportunities for nursing assistants. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, health care providers are currently adding on average of 20,000 new jobs per month. Not only in the […]

Dedicated quilter? Woodworker? Jewelry maker? While the majority of senior living communities offer a varied roster of activities so that residents can enjoy pastimes that suit their preferences, many aging adults have concerns that they won’t be able to find a community that truly supports their avocation or artistic interests. What if you’re a theatre […]