75 religious orders to get training in long-term nursing care

Published: 2006-06-06

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- A new grant will allow staff working at nursing homes and similar facilities for elderly religious to learn the principles of a concept called "person-centered care." In all, representatives from 75 religious orders will be invited to an Oct. 31-Nov. 1 conference in Chicago on the concept. Many conference costs will be covered through a $182,446 grant from the Retirement Research Foundation of Chicago, which has promoted person-centered care for 15 years. Person-centered care is described as a caring culture that establishes positive relationships between staff and residents that respect an older adult's life history, identity and preferences. Person-centered care also ensures engagement in meaningful activity, and provides and encourages an overall sense of well-being. According to Precious Blood Sister Janice Bader, project director of retirement services for the U.S. bishops' National Religious Retirement Office, each of the 75 orders being invited to participate cares for at least 100 elderly or infirm members.

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