Today’s report on compassion describes it as the resolve to serve others. This article, published by the Schwartz Healthcare Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, features Victor Furtado, Security Director at NewBridge on the Charles Hebrew SeniorLife.
A Natural Calling to Serve
Until we learn more about Victor Furtado and his security team, it will be difficult to merge compassion with security and transportation. But that is exactly what Victor has taught his team.
NewBridge is a senior living community offering either independent living or chronic care and skilled nursing. Victor’s team consists of forty people who are available for an emergency response or a routine trip to the doctor. Victor calls many of the services they perform “not my job” but provides them with a smile.
Residents at NewBridge readily gave the reason Victor is so popular. They describe him as trying to create a safe community and a positive environment. The residents describe his compassion and willingness to help. They find comfort in knowing help is just a call away.
Consider it Done
Can you imagine having every request met with such an open and cooperative attitude? Well, that is another reason the NewBridge residents are so pleased with Vic and his team. Vic has instilled this attitude in the members of his team who meet each challenge with a smile that says “Ok, it’s not a big deal”. Vic gets credit for the high morale of his staff along with their level of compassion, sensitivity, and responsibility.
As first emergency responders, Vic’s team is mostly EMT certified. Vic has trained them to handle needs specific to seniors. Sharon Gouvela, a NewBridge resident, recalls that she often relied on help from the team for her husband, who was a Parkinson’s patient.
Compassion for Family Members
Helping family members through a loved one’s illness takes a certain type of compassion and understanding. Family matters, especially terminal issues, can be complicated. Vic explains that this is one of the most important moments in patient care. It calls for an ability to listen, and he stresses, “truly listen”.
Vic explained that trust is critical. By listening carefully, trust can be established. Family members will understand that you are truly making their loved ones a top priority.
Security and Protection During COVID-19
The pandemic threw the team into high gear. Protection became more critical. Residents had to remain in their homes. The team delivered meals and taught residents how to use iPads.
Vic and his team took on additional roles. They made a point of checking on residents in an effort to relieve their anxiety.
Vic had his own version of stress after work each day. He voluntarily restricted his time with his family for the first six weeks to prevent transmission of the virus. Although he admits it was difficult, he said that serving such wonderful residents made it easier.
