Publication explores innovations in service to the aging - Innovations in Service to the Aging: Innovation of the Year Award Winners 1989-1992

Health Care Financing Review, Spring, 1993

The American Association of Homes for the Aging (AAHA) has published a book describing 12 award-winning, innovative programs created and implemented by non-profit homes and services f or the aging.

"We hope this publication will spark new ideas, encourage creative problem-solving, and help long-term care facilities enhance the quality of service to older Americans," said Sheldon L. Goldberg, president of AAHA.

The publication, Innovations in Service to the Aging: Innovation of the Year Award Winners 1989-199Z presents 12 AAHA innovation of the year award-winning papers. The AAHA Innovation of the Year Awards, sponsored by ARA Services, Inc., are given annually to three association members whose innovations in their own facilities have been judged to be both innovative and practical.

Innovations in the publication include such titles as, "Program for Feeding the Hungary," and outreach program for the homeless developed by Orthodox Jewish Home Friendship Club in Cincinnati, Ohio, and "Precision Wheelchair Drill Team," a stellar parade attraction created by Josephine Sunset Home in Stanwood, Washington.

Other featured innovations focus more directly on resident care and services. These include a program by The Pavilion at Villa Pueblo Towers, Pueblo, Colorado, entitled, "A Win-Win Situation: The Collaboration of One Hospital and a Skilled Care Facility to Provide Care for Ventilator Patients," and "Memory Pillows," developed by Marwood Manor Nursing Home, Port Huron, Michigan, which uses personalized pillows to help nursing home residents express their personalities and communicate their lifelong interests.

Many of the program descriptions include a summary; a history of the project; its impact and revelance to residents, staff, and the community; and evaluation results. Organization contacts are also provided.

Innovations in Service to the Aging: Innovation of the Year Award Winners 1989-1992, is available for $11 (includes shipping and handling). AAHA members may purchase it at a discount ($7 including shipping and handling). It can be ordered from AAHA Publications, 901 E Street, NW., Suite 500, Washington, DC 20061-5117. For more information, call 202)508-9442.