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- By Jean Bardgette -
The Health and Wellness Committee purpose is to work cooperatively with our Resident Services Department in encouraging all residents take the best possible care of their minds and bodies so they may enjoy all the advantages we have here at University Village. Many of our twelve committee members have a back-ground in the health field, some formal (doctors and nurses) and some informal (those who have cared for ill family members).
As a top priority the committee works actively with a cooperative Oakview staff to address concerns reported by residents who have received care in Skilled Nursing or Assisted Living. The Satisfaction Survey has been shortened and made crisper, and many improvements in service have already occurred, with some challenges still moving toward solution. The latest project is to create a Volunteer Corps made up of residents from UVTO. Many have volunteered and meetings are being held to formulate how best to utilize the enthusiastic response we have received.
Another high priority program was begun with representatives from the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence of Los Angeles surveying UVTO in April. Our ageing population is particularly vulnerable to falling. The survey is the first step in providing us with a plan to help prevent fall incidents by eliminating hazards and increasing prevention awareness. This program will be introduced during Active Ageing Week, September 20 - 24, 2010. Watch for upcoming information on the many programs, lectures and, capping the week on Friday, the Health Fair, where many vendors will participate.
We are active in other areas. We suggest, help procure and encourage residents‘ attendance at lectures on health topics. We work with the Food and Beverage Committee to see that our meals are healthy and well balanced. The "Helping Hands" volunteer program is managed through the Resident Services Office and we are told it has been a big help. Residents volunteer, at times convenient to them, to assist fellow residents who might need occasional help such as picking up drug store items or keeping them company at the Emergency Room. More help is always welcome; consider stopping by Resident Services and signing up.