One of My Best Friends is 93

When I started my career as an intensive care unit nurse, thought had a pretty good idea of what it takes to be nurse practitioner (NP). But experience in post-acute and long-term over the past five years has certainly changed that. It been privilege part older adults’ teams. The relationships have developed last adult geriatric NP afforded me lifetime smiles, tears, laughter, personal growth addition professional experience, this is just beginning journey PALTC. moved Texas from Minnesota ago begin NP, not knowing expect but anticipating amazing nonetheless. Unbeknownst me, would learn more than ever expected adults for. For instance, 113-year-old taught about matters: never leave your room without lipstick colorful scarf so you will always look presentable. These also given unanticipated return: handwritten thank-you cards, candid conversations first loves, shared stories six democratic conventions couple who attended them together, even romantic crush on another resident that someone felt comfortable sharing with “way up north.” A 93-year-old called cell phone check make sure I’m OK during COVID-19 pandemic. Older role remain true authentic self. Whether talking latest haircut, wigs, or lip color “girlie girl” residents listening Hank Williams’ “Hey, Good Lookin’” while sifting through pictures tractors 1950s retired farmers living nursing homes, learned find great joy these moments. remind myself when rounding building making home visits actually address medical concerns because easy get lost conversation newfound extended family. As 2016 Futures scholarship recipient, much since program joining family AMDA – Society for Post-Acute Long-Term Care. furthered love establishing care, assisted living, clinic settings. checking “just because,” crying, laughing, praying, sitting few moments silence together. It’s experiences work special me. strengthened knowledge base within management acute chronic illness encouraged advocacy behalf population. attend policy conference hosted by American Association Nurse Practitioners 2020 right before pandemic was amazed at impact can advocating change. helped strengthen voice. In addition, invited join subcommittees include clinical issues, where led creation Society’s white paper use marijuana update staffing issues care. participate Practitioner/Physician Assistant Practice Group participated panel regarding our NPs practice. 2021 Annual Conference third year speaking panel, am honored continue represent fellow NPs/PAs “patience Job” becoming spent many nights complicated patients bedside days. Now accept there entirely new level patience PALTC practitioner, walk families transitions end life, diagnoses. Learning how discuss changes/recommendations families, using terminology culturally/spiritually inclusive language practices, ability truly help age better. What honor patients’ health they age. To “golden girls,” see next virtual tea party! Ms. Walker adult-geriatric Baylor Scott White Health Texas. She currently doctoral student University Texas, focusing among adults.