St. Luke’s Elders and Staff Learn How to Identify and Stop Bullying
Robin Bonifas, PhD, MSW, discussed her book and offered practical advice to St. Luke’s Elders and staff on how to identify bullying and help stop bullying when it does happen. Bonifas (pictured above center in lime-green scarf) is the author of Bullying Among Older Adults and is an Assistant Professor at the School of Social Work at Arizona State University.
According to Bonifas, there is a growing body of research on peer bullying among Elders who live communally. Bonifas defines bullying as "verbal, physical or antisocial behaviors that occur in the context of social relationships." She pointed out, "Like youths, victims of senior bullying experience considerable emotional distress."
As shown in picture above, Bonifas’ presentation drew a full house of St. Luke’s Elders. She also led a separate session for staff. "Bonifas brilliantly described the nature of Elder bullying and presented positive ways for all of us, together, to proactively deal with bullying’s effects," said St. Luke’s CEO L’Don Sawyer.
Joanne, a St. Luke’s Elder, praised the session. "The session was very instructive. It was important to have this conversation and let us know what we should do if we experience bullying."
BOV Recognized at National Philanthropy Day Luncheon
St. Luke’s Board of Visitors (representatives pictured above right) was recognized for philanthropic excellence at the 30th Annual National Philanthropy Day Awards luncheon held November 16 at the Westin La Paloma Resort. The event was sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Southern Arizona Chapter.
The BOV received a Spirit of Philanthropy Award (above left). The award recognizes "those who exemplify philanthropy through their contributions of time, effort, and/or resources…and those who demonstrate extraordinary leadership and vision."
All of us at St. Luke’s are enormously proud and grateful for all that the BOV has done for St. Luke’s in the Desert. For one hundred years! The award was the ideal way to mark and celebrate the century of BOV commitment to all of the populations who have received special care and support at St. Luke’s.
UA Students Guide and Assess Medication Safety for St. Luke’s Elders
An interdisciplinary team of University of Arizona students was at St. Luke’s on Saturday, November 17 as part of a clinic for St. Luke’s Elders on medication safety. Led by Jeannie K. Lee, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP, FASHP, UA College of Pharmacy, the students came from disciplines that included medicine, nutrition and pharmacy. The clinic began with a lecture for the students on medication safety. Students then worked one-on-one with Elders, all of whom volunteer for the program, providing specialized assessments of the medicines Elders take.
As St. Luke’s CEO L’Don Sawyer pointed out, "These clinics provide a wonderful way for us to ensure that our Elders are safely taking their medicines. Many of our Elders are responsible for their own medications and this clinic helps ensure Elders are well-informed on medication safety."
The clinic was one of a series, which will resume in 2019, developed as part of St. Luke’s ongoing partnership with the University of Arizona.
St. Luke’s Elders and Staff Hosted at Garden Party
Nancy Casey, Board of Visitor’s member and longtime St. Luke’s supporter, hosted her twice-yearly tea in the garden of her home for St. Luke’s Elders and staff on Thursday, November 15. Lemonade, tea and cookies were served poolside at the event and an added touch: sun hats were available for all to wear.
"The garden setting was beautiful," said Amor Castagneto, Lead Care Partner at St. Luke’s. "It was calm and soothing, and we all shared thoughts about life. A lovely event." A special thanks to Nancy Casey for sharing her lovely gardens for tea with St. Luke’s Elders and staff!
Casey has been hosting the teas in the fall and spring for about five years. "The Elders love to sit in the garden and this year my roses were so big," said Casey. "We usually have the same Elders and they seem to love their time, and I love hosting them!"
Young Adults Bring Piano Talents to St. Luke’s
St. Luke’s Elders enjoyed a special piano recital by students from Dr. Choi’s Piano Studio on November 24th. The piano recital was part of St. Luke’s commitment, as an Eden Model community, to provide multiple opportunities for St. Luke’s Elders to interact with people of all ages.
"They all played beautifully," Roberta, an Elder at St. Luke’s said. "It brought back so many memories of playing and listening to the piano as a child."
Happenings at St. Luke’s Home
Girl Scout Troop 51 Christmas Sing-Along: Wednesday, December 12, 6 PM, St. Luke’s Dining Room.
BOV Annual Holiday Boutique: Thursday, December 13, 9 AM, St. Luke’s Dining Room.
Tucson Desert Harmony Chorus: Monday, December 17, 3 PM, St. Luke’s Dining Room.
Holiday Blues In-Service: Thursday, December 20, 10 AM, St. Luke’s Dining Room. Presentation by CareMore Touch on how to recognize and beat the holiday blues.
Invisible Theatre’s Pastime Players Holiday Show: Thursday, December 20, 12 Noon, St. Luke’s Dining Room.
Pastor Rhoda Christmas Eve Party, Monday, December 24, 6 PM, St. Luke’s Chapel.
Your donations to St. Luke’s Home are deeply appreciated and easy to do. Click on the donate button pictured above to make an on-line donation that supports the mission of St. Luke’s Home.
.jpg)
