Yesterday at my internship, we were able to go for a tour around a very large skilled nursing facility (SNF). Walking around, we were able to see people of all different cognitive levels and physical capabilities, simply existing in their rooms. Even though the facility is maintained well, it's still sad to think that this is the place where many of the residents will die. Some have probably lived their entire lives being productive citizens, parents, and spouses, yet at the end of their lives, they just exist, incurring medical bills for their loved ones. To my eyes, the facility gives them dignified care, but the fact of them being institutionalized is sad. Many of them have no other choice but to be there, they have no family members or have medical conditions that require around-the-clock medical attention. Their situation is worsened by no one else except time. Nonetheless, I asked God to please take me if I ever get to the point of needing to live in a SNF.
Despite the sadness, I like visiting these "nursing homes" because I encounter such cool people, staff and residents. I don't think I'd want to work in one full-time, but I don't mind visiting hospice patients who live in them. SNFs are great places, but I would never want to be in need of such care.
5 years ago
