We are blessed with a good AL facility, on the smaller side with about 28 apartments, and pretty good staff. We have the occasional issue but they are very responsive. Once before we've given gift bags of chocolates and hard candies for all the staff (about 20) to show our appreciation. I would appreciate any ideas on how you show your appreciation to the care staff. Also, there are two or three staff that work most closely with my MIL, and go the extra mile. How have you handled showing 'extra' appreciation for a few special staff without slighting the rest of the staff?
After she passed, I made special mention in the obituary about the MC facility and called out a couple of the staff by name.
She died in September, in December, (I got permission from the director first) I went to Scrubs and bought a gift certificate for a new set of scrubs for every member of the staff. Since it was a small home, it wasn't an overwhelming expense. It made me feel better.
Now, it's a standard that I do for when I've had long term care or DH has. And I DO remember the 2nd & 3rd shifts if they have them.
Many NH's have a bulletin board just for the 'thank you' notes and kind comments. It does help with morale.
I'm unsure about the gift cards--you'd need to check and see what's appropriate for each facility.
That way, ALL of the shifts can enjoy them.
To keep it from getting costly, I buy one large bouquet, and divide it up, and place the flowers in cute smaller jars. Then, I make a label for each jar stating that it's from my mom.
Make sure the food is store bought and individually wrapped for safety.
In our community families always want to do something special for our team, they have brought in donuts, pizza, holiday cookies and treats, and our team were very appreciative of this kind gesture. For those caregivers that you feel have gone the extra mile, take some time to write a letter to the executive director, owner or management company to say how they go above and beyond. Thank you for your dedication and hard work means so much who dedicate themselves to caring for your loved one.
Every facility is different, but the last thing anyone wants is to put employee livelihoods in jeopardy. Check with the managers first.
Smile, greet the staff. (Even the person pushing a broom)
Wish them a Good Morning, afternoon....
If there is one or more that you are really appreciative of write a letter or note to them and make a copy for administration. Tell them that you appreciate what they have done and give examples. This can go a long way if someone wants better hours, a day off or even if they go for another job.
Most places have restrictions on gift cards or cash. If it is allowed it is probably limited to $25.00
A nice thing would be to have coffee, donuts and fruit delivered, or you bring it for the AM staff.
A sandwich tray, or a tray of cold cuts and cheese and bread from a place like Sam's, Costco or a local sandwich place for the Mid day or PM staff.
Overnight seems to be left out a lot so see if something could be set aside for them. Or a late night pizza delivery.
(make sure you set up anything like this in advance so they are aware of a delivery)
And once again smile, say thank you when you leave.
Treat them the way you would want to be treated if you were working and better treat them the way you want them to treat your mom.