Legacy Senior Living: Nurses Make a Difference
National Nurses Week: May 6-11
Within the senior living industry, and most assuredly at Legacy Senior Living, nurses serve as the backbone of care, offering not just medical expertise but also emotional support and companionship to residents and family members alike. From administering medications to assisting with the needs of daily activities, they ensure that residents receive the attention and assistance they need to thrive in their later years. Beyond their clinical duties, these nurses forge deep connections with residents, becoming trusted confidants and advocates for their well-being. Whether it’s lending a listening ear or providing a comforting presence, they go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those they serve.
This year, in honor of Nurse Appreciation Week, Legacy Senior Living has asked several of our dedicated nurses why they do what they do. Here’s what they said:
Melissa Wiggins, who has worked for Legacy for several years, grew up in a nursing family. As a child, Melissa’s mother would take her on her afternoon rounds at a skilled nursing facility, and she fell in love with geriatric care. Melissa has always felt that it is a privilege to care for the generation that once cared for us.
Janice Rutledge, who has worked for Legacy for five years, was originally pursuing a path for computers when her father died from cancer. She claims that the Lord changed her path. She loves working with seniors because she finds them “simply precious”.
Jenny Davis, who has worked for Legacy for over three years, chose to become a nurse because of the nurses who cared for her own grandmother, showing her love and care and treating her with dignity.
Heather Gennarini, who has worked for Legacy for over four years, was influenced to become a nurse because her grandmother was a CNA, and she wanted to be just like her. Heather loves being able to connect with seniors and help them feel safe and heard. ‘She states, “Memory care makes me smile. My father has dementia, and I treat everyone like they are my family.”
Emily Tallant, who has worked for Legacy for two years, grandmother played a huge role in encouraging her to pursue nursing as she was also a nurse. Watching both her grandmothers struggle with dementia, inspired her to go into senior care and to give the best care she can.
Lisa Cook, who has worked for Legacy since 2021, became a nurse following in her mother’s footsteps. She loves working with seniors because of their wisdom, memories and life lessons.
Abigail Cox, who has worked for Legacy for over three years, was pursuing nursing and geriatrics when her grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The experience confirmed her calling, and now she loves most making them feel loved, valued and important.
At Legacy Senior Living, nurses make a significant difference in the lives of seniors by providing not only essential medical care but also companionship, empathy, and emotional support. Through their dedication and compassion, nurses enhance the quality of life for seniors, fostering a sense of security, dignity, and connection in their later years. As we reflect on their invaluable role, we would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to these extraordinary individuals who continue to make a profound difference in the lives of our residents and their families each and every day.
To all of the Legacy nurses who work round-the-clock to love and care for our residents, thank you!