Working as a licensed practical nurse in a senior living community in either assisted living or memory care is a diverse, challenging and fulfilling career for those who really love people — residents and coworkers alike. Because of the very hands-on nature of the job, senior living LPNs are an integral part of the day-to-day routine in senior living. It is their care that allows seniors with different needs to continue to enjoy life, while staying safe and healthy. Here’s a look at a typical day for a dedicated senior living LPN working in a community like Senior Star.
What an LPN Workday is Like
Rise and shine
LPNs are direct caregivers who work under the direction of a head nurse or nurse manager. So, the day begins with an information exchange between the morning shift and the overnight shift to fill in what went on during the night and any new health concerns among residents.
Next, they visit each resident under their care to say good morning and help them wash, shower or bath, shave, dress, and take morning medications. The work is especially wonderful for one Senior Star associate who works in memory care. “The people that we care for make it a special place to work. Even having them remember something as small as my name makes me really happy.”
Before the LPN moves on to another resident they will make sure the senior is on their way to breakfast on their own or with help from an aide. Since some residents struggle to feed themselves, LPNs may help feed residents to see that they get all the nutrition they need.
Mid-morning activities
Senior living communities go a long way to provide daily activities for residents to engage with each other and challenge them. During this time, a senior living LPN may work on assessing residents during activities for updates to their care plans. They may also be called to assist another team member with a resident or to administer additional medications. This is an important aspect according to a Senior Star associate who said, “People here are very willing to work as a team from management on down. My opinion is that I can ask anyone for assistance even if it is not my department and they are more than willing to assist. This is what attracted me to this particular company. Also, the atmosphere is very friendly and inviting. I love the residents, enjoy the people I work with, and truly enjoy coming to work each day. I do feel that God placed me here at (Senior Star) to serve the residents and the people that I work with.”
Senior living LPNs are so essential to the optimization of services they can count on always having something to do. Our senior living LPNs know even the most mundane tasks are important to residents who depend on them, and their appreciation shows in their smiles.
Have a great afternoon
Since many residents must take medications with food, senior living LPNs will be busy helping administer medications to residents under their care. Then it’s off to lunch where LPNs may assist with helping residents get the meal they prefer and may assist with helping them to eat as well. Of course, that means spending time with other residents too and enjoying their stories and laughter as you work. As one Senior Star associate put it, “It’s rewarding. I get to interact with people who have experienced a lot. It’s fun to work here.”
After lunch, some residents will prefer to rest in their room while others may have therapy sessions or are ready to participate in a planned activity. Senior living LPNs will help residents with personal hygiene as well as little things like getting them settled for a nap or reading. They may also spend more time assessing residents to ensure their care plans are as complete as possible. When problems or concerns occur, they will take the time to fully explain them to their nurse manager. At Senior Star, our teams work closely together and as one associate put it, “Management cares about staff. My supervisor is great, and I consider her a friend as well as my supervisor. She seeks out my opinion on things and asks my help. She also offers her help when she thinks it is needed. She goes above and beyond in her position. She is very appreciated by me and others.”
Wrap up the day
As the day wanes it’s time for dinner and medications. Senior living LPNs make the rounds of residents who take afternoon medications and help them prepare for and attend dinner in the dining room. Again, they may also assist with meals to ensure residents are eating a balanced diet and drinking adequate liquids.
After dinner, many residents enjoy a walk outdoors or maybe just rest in the social court. Senior living LPNs may accompany them to ensure they are safe and can return to their apartment when ready. As the sun sets, residents begin preparing for bed and senior living LPNs are there to assist with activities of daily living and share the highlights of their day. Everything an LPN can do to make it easier is always appreciated.
As their residents retire and their shift comes to an end senior living LPNs also review each resident with the incoming staff and share problems or changes. Again, this regard for residents and each other is what one Senior Star associate feels makes their job special. “The people here are kind, helpful and encourage everyone to do great!”
At Senior Star, LPNs are essential to our success, and we know it. That’s why we have achieved the highest level of accreditation by CARF and were certified as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years. Find out more about working at Senior Star, review our benefits and take a look at current position openings for one that’s perfect for you!