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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Care worker earns award from WHCA

Jackie Nelson, a special care unit manager at Pinewood Terrace in Colville, has been recognized as this year’s skilled nursing Red Carpet Quality Award recipient by the Washington Health Care Association.

Nelson, who has worked for Prestige Care Inc. – which owns Pinewood Terrace – for 10 years, is known for her enthusiasm and positive improvements to the Special Care Unit. She developed an Alzheimer’s support group and finds alternative interventions and approaches to reduce use of medication in treating the disease and its effects. She also encourages residents to enjoy extracurricular activities and adventures.

“She is in an endless pursuit to maintain a happy and healthy home for her residents,” said Pinewood Terrace administrator Gail McDowell in a press release.

Nelson was recognized at the WHCA annual convention in Spokane on Wednesday.

Volunteers honored

The Panhandle Health District celebrated Senior Corps Week last week by highlighting outstanding senior volunteers throughout North Idaho on its Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/iphd1). The district along with the Corporation for National and Community Services is encouraging people age 55-plus to volunteer to help other seniors stay independent, tutor at-risk youth and a range of other tasks.

One of the standouts is Cliff Grimes, 93, of Sandpoint, who volunteers 15 hours each week helping a paraplegic man stay in his home. He has worked with his client for 12 years. Grimes has been a senior companion for 27 years.

Post Falls resident Sue Robinson, 79, has been a senior companion for 25 years. She helps three people by driving them to doctor appointments, walking with them and visiting.

For more information on senior companion volunteer opportunities go to www.phd1.idaho.gov /homehealth/seniorcompanion/ volunteerops.cfm or call (800) 226-2053.