LadyPeterW has a valid point. I am a hospital volunteer with my therapy dog. One of the duties, as I see them, is not just to let people pet my dog. Medical staff is busy, and especially so over the last two years. I have time to let the patients give me their “organ recitals.” It does seem to release some tension and fear for many. I have had medical staff thank me for taking the time to listen, and my dog enjoys the visits no matter what. I remember one woman who had brain surgery and was concerned about the hair growing back. The incision was not where she could see it easily, so I took a peek for her and said it was probably going to grow back well enough to cover the eventual scar. She seemed visibly relieved and relaxed after that. One of my favorites was a patient who likely had some form of dementia. He told me, in confidence, that the “hotel” he was staying in had terrible food and bad service. I smiled at him and suggested he not leave a tip for the staff. He laughed and brightened up. If someone wants to dump their health stories on me, I will listen. Some people just need to share it, and it helps their fears. Then again, I was a social worker for many years, so I have had a lot of practice.
Last Rose Of Summer Premium Member over 2 years ago
At 84, I’m in great health. Slow sounds good to me. I got stuff to do.
catmom1360 over 2 years ago
Never ask and elderly person how they are. They will tell you ad nauseam.
pheets over 2 years ago
Some folks just can’t be happy unless they are miserable, or making someone miserable.
Steverino Premium Member over 2 years ago
“How are you” is a greeting, not a question.
Moonkey Premium Member over 2 years ago
LadyPeterW has a valid point. I am a hospital volunteer with my therapy dog. One of the duties, as I see them, is not just to let people pet my dog. Medical staff is busy, and especially so over the last two years. I have time to let the patients give me their “organ recitals.” It does seem to release some tension and fear for many. I have had medical staff thank me for taking the time to listen, and my dog enjoys the visits no matter what. I remember one woman who had brain surgery and was concerned about the hair growing back. The incision was not where she could see it easily, so I took a peek for her and said it was probably going to grow back well enough to cover the eventual scar. She seemed visibly relieved and relaxed after that. One of my favorites was a patient who likely had some form of dementia. He told me, in confidence, that the “hotel” he was staying in had terrible food and bad service. I smiled at him and suggested he not leave a tip for the staff. He laughed and brightened up. If someone wants to dump their health stories on me, I will listen. Some people just need to share it, and it helps their fears. Then again, I was a social worker for many years, so I have had a lot of practice.
Ray Helvy Premium Member over 2 years ago
She says health is the “slowest way to die” like it’s a bad thing. Lady, nobody likes a whiner, and you have crossed the line.