ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Patients residing in the Community Living Center on the campus of the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville are met with a staff hoping to make their stay as comfortable and familiar as possible.
“This is not what they’re used to living in, but we try really hard to make it a homelike environment that’s safe and comfortable even being on a healthcare campus” says Kristie King, Chief Nurse of Geriatrics and Extended Care.
“We encourage them to engage in activities that they like, to identify things that they like. We want them to be as independent as possible, and we want to make sure that the quality of their lives for well deserving Veterans is recognized by all of us.”
One way King and her staff recognize these Veterans is by getting to know them during their stay.
“That’s the part of this that, I think, I love, and I know the staff loves too is to figure out exactly what they need and to individualize their care."
Part of that individualized care comes in the form of creating shadow boxes for patients. The boxes hang in the halls of the Living Center next to the patient’s room.
“The shadow boxes stared out of a desire that we recognize them as individuals. They have made huge contributions to their country, to their families, to their work worlds,” King said.
Walking through the halls, it’s hard not grow curious about each patient. One is a huge Journey fan, another loves Big Red chewing gum and dancing. Down another hall, a former West Henderson football player and his faith are on display. On and on the stories go.
“Whatever we can do to help people feel more positive about themselves, their commitments, generate conversation is just a great thing," King said.
If you would like to send donations to aid in the creation of the shadow boxes, please send them to: Voluntary Services, Charles George VA Medical Center, 1100 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC 28805.
In the memo box, please note the donation is for the shadow boxes.
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