PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Penny James, a personal support specialist at Seniors/Domestics Home Care Agency in Presque Isle, recently received a 2022 Excellence in Long Term Care Award during a recognition ceremony in Augusta.
Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Maine Center for Disease Control, offered the keynote address.
James was one of 14 caregivers statewide who received awards at the annual luncheon at Maple Hill Farm in Augusta. The Maine Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and Maine Health Care Association joined together to recognize long term caregivers.
Angela Westhoff, health care association president and CEO, and Trinity Baker, ombudsman program project manager, presented the awards. The honors are given annually to long term care employees statewide who have consistently exemplified a commendable level of caregiving, dedication and professionalism in caring for the state’s elderly and disabled citizens living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and in individuals’ homes.
James has been employed with Seniors/Domestics for more than 23 years. Penny uses her creativity and compassion to serve each client as the individual they are and makes each one feel cared for.
The Excellence in Long Term Care Award is designed to thank and honor Maine’s long term care employees who spend their days and nights caring for others. To be considered, nominees must meet certain criteria, including consistent quality of caregiving, attention to residents’ rights, leadership among peers, and ability to inspire others through example.
Nominations for the award were submitted by providers statewide and winners were selected by an independent panel of judges with long term care expertise.
“This program seeks to honor the dedication, hard work, perseverance, and in some cases personal sacrifice of long term care providers across the care continuum,” Westhoff said.
“We are so thankful to you, the amazing caregivers, who provide such excellent and high quality care to Maine’s elderly and disabled citizens.”
