PRESQUE ISLE – Senior citizens from throughout Aroostook County were acknowledged for the important role they are playing in the education and training of the region’s future nurses at a tea held recently on the Northern Maine Community College campus.
The Well Elder program has been a part of the nursing curriculum at NMCC for more than 10 years. It pairs members of the first year nursing class with healthy senior citizens who volunteer to allow students into their homes throughout the semester to practice their assessment techniques.
“We cannot thank you enough for graciously allowing our students into your homes,” said Betty Kent-Conant, nursing and allied health department chair to the 75 seniors, student nurses and NMCC faculty gathered at the celebration. “You have played an important role in helping to mold the future generation of nurses.”
When visiting their “well elders,” NMCC student nurses took vital signs and reviewed medications, home safety and general health lifestyles. Students also gained valuable experience practicing their interview and listening skills.
“In May of 2009, you will participate in a nursing pinning ceremony that will signify your entry into the nursing profession,” said Daryl Boucher, first year nursing student coordinator to the students he directed through the well elder program. “When that time comes around, please remember your well elders and the many others who have helped you along the way. The important skills you learned while visiting with these senior citizens, as well as the invaluable life lessons, will be with you throughout your nursing career.”
A total of 44 students enrolled in the first year nursing class on the Presque Isle campus and an additional 14 students participating in the NMCC nursing program offered at a distance in Calais on the Washington County Community College campus were engaged in the well elder program.
The well elder tea brings together, for the first time, all of the students and their senior volunteers.
Contributed photo
GREATER PRESQUE ISLE area seniors participating in the 2007 Northern Maine Community College Nursing Department well elder program attending a recent afternoon appreciation tea at the College were, front row, from left: Sharon Madore, Nanette Colton, Helen McConnell, Christine Dicker, Raymond Walton, Rita Lannigan, Stephen Naas and Mary Smith, all of Presque Isle; Arlene Knight of Chapman and Shirley Churchill-Bragdon of Washburn. Thanking their well elders were NMCC nursing students, back row, from left: Chelsae Cambridge of Chapman, Jennifer Knowles of Presque Isle, Janna Johnson of Fort Fairfield, Jaymie St. Peter of Ashland, Josh Tompkins of Mapleton, Katelyn Crane of New Limerick, Pamela Shoemaker of Plaster Rock, New Brunswick; Kirsten Dobson of Presque Isle, Nikki Dailey of Presque Isle, and Stephanie Burtt of Washburn.
