Random Acts of Klineness
February 26, 2024 | Assisted Living, Kline Galland Home, Kline Galland Staff, Resources
Picture this: a regular afternoon at Kline Galland with the usual hum of activity. Suddenly, an impromptu karaoke event takes center stage in the shared lounge. A few people in Human Resources get the singing started. Others build up courage, slowly adding to the parade of performers. Soon, the show is in full swing, with residents belting along to their favorite tunes and spectators cheering them on. The interest spreads and everyone is drawn to the musical party. Charge nurses, housekeeping heroes, and even the janitors are in on the action. The whole community is singing, dancing, and laughing between their tasks and daily activities. The joy is forever remembered as the “most fun afternoon.” It was all due to investing in kindness.
Random Acts of Kindness Day was on February 17, but kindness is a welcome act any day of the year. More than a gesture, it’s a force that positively impacts both the giver and the receiver. For Kline Galland, it’s also a way to reaffirm community and appreciation.
Scientifically speaking, kind acts trigger a cascade of positive effects in our bodies and minds. Research suggests that when we engage in kindness, our brains release oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin promotes trust and bonding, as well as lowering blood pressure and improving heart health. After helping others, people report feeling stronger, energetic, calmer, and less depressed; their sense of self-worth rises. Emotional resilience and a greater connection to others occur, for the receiver and the giver.
Creating community through kindness is something that Shelly Ryan, Chief of Human Resources, sees as a critical part of her job. “If we really take care of our staff, they will take care of our residents. And they do. So many are recognized in our Over the TOP (Totally Outstanding Performance) program for going above and beyond in their job, through random acts of care.”
To foster that fellowship, Shelly and her team make it a point to create happy moments at unexpected times. In the dog days of summer, that means rolling a cart with chilled root beer and other drinks so staff and residents alike can refresh and toast each other. Other times it means providing thoughtful gifts of encouragement, like a lunchbox with a traveling mug and sanitizer for employees who work out in the community.
These “Random Acts of Klineness” bring leadership and administration out of offices to interact with those who provide direct care. Solutions and “easy fixes to everyday barriers” can be discussed and implemented. New employees are urged to be part of photo sessions and part of the team. Relationships are built across departments and levels.
And it does mean that staff bring that solidarity to clients and residents. One recent example is the attention a certified nursing assistant (CNA) brought to a client in transitional care. Although the individual wasn’t thrilled to be in rehabilitation, they soon grew to appreciate the CNA’s sense of humor, including dry jokes and encouragement. After leaving, the short-timer called to tell a Human Resources staffer what a difference that CNA made. That one employee made the individual feel like they mattered and would be missed while at the same time celebrating their recovery and return home.
Because, as Shelly reminds us, “You never know what will connect, what will matter,” and we could all use more love in the world! Here are three simple ways to show kindness to the seniors in our lives:
- Take the time to regularly check in through a phone call, video chat, or in-person visit. Simply asking how they’re doing and engaging in meaningful conversations can brighten their day and make them feel cared for.
- Offer to help with tasks from laundry to transportation. Your assistance can ease their burden and demonstrate your willingness to support them.
- Practice empathy, respect, and dignity. Listen attentively to their stories, experiences, and concerns; validating their feelings can provide immense comfort and foster a sense of belonging.
Kindness is not only a virtue but also a scientifically proven way to enhance well-being and foster positive relationships. By incorporating kindness into our daily lives, we can create a more compassionate and connected society for generations to come.
###
Sources: personal interview with Shelly Ryan; Random Acts of Kindness Foundation
