Newport News, Va. — Riverside’s team members are the heart of the health system that takes an individualized approach to caring for its older adult residents living in its retirement communities throughout southeastern Virginia.
Linda Lutz, a Household Manager at The Evergreen Memory Care Household at Warwick Forest in Newport News, exemplifies that commitment every day by the personalized care she offers residents in the dementia care household.
Riverside is pleased to announce that Lutz received the 2020 Power of Purpose Award from LeadingAge Virginia, a statewide association of non-profit organizations working to expand the world of possibilities for aging.
The Power of Purpose award annually recognizes one individual who leads by example by providing a person-centered approach to care.
Lutz’s peers and resident family members nominated her for the honor. She’s passionate about the position she’s held for the last three years.
“The reason I am drawn to stay at Evergreen is that I learn far more from my residents than I give to them, and I get far more from them,” Lutz said. “They completely demonstrate the resiliency of the human spirit. We have our challenges, but we meet them. I get emotional because I'm inspired. I'm inspired by their courage. I'm inspired by their willingness to grow.”
Lutz offers the 20 residents she cares for a sense of belonging and purpose. She tailors pastimes to their interests. Sometimes she thumbs through photo albums with a resident; other days she might help with a word search puzzle. Often, she’ll just listen.
“If there’s anxiety, we have a number of options that we can go to, being with them individually, providing activities,” Lutz said.
Lutz visits every room daily, connecting with each resident on needs big and small. She reports back to family if the basics — shampoo or toothpaste — are running low.
One family member of a resident noted in his nomination letter of support for Lutz that she is “a true champion of care.”
Warwick Forest, located in Newport News on the York County border, offers various levels of residential care to help older adults live their most active lives. The Evergreen Memory Care Household is dedicated to providing comfort and care for individuals living with mild to moderate levels of memory impairment due to dementia, including Alzheimer's.
