HHC After Dark
Independence at Home live-in care
By Ken Harrison
We appreciate the valuable work done by HHC colleagues on second and third shifts and we highlight their contributions in every issue.
When all the lights go out at Jefferson House and the night grows dark and silent, residents of this skilled nursing facility can rest easy knowing they have a dedicated group making sure they are safe and secure.
Team members like N’Mey Ndoua and Yawavi Simpini work overnight shifts at Jefferson House, a skilled nursing facility that is part of Hartford HealthCare Senior Services, as part of their jobs with Hartford HealthCare Independence at Home.
“I have always loved working with seniors and I love what I do,”
—Ndoua
“As a private care worker, it is my job to constantly be at our client’s side to watch over them and make sure they are ok,” Ndoua said. “That means helping them get into bed and get settled, making sure they have had all of their medication and, most importantly, being there all night in case they need anything or have to get up.”
Compassion and companionship are important aspects of their job, but even more important is physically being there to summon help in case of an emergency.
“We work closely with the nurses and medical staff to get help in case they are needed for any reason,” Simpini explained. “It means so much to be a part of such a great team of dedicated people who all care about the same thing — taking the best care of these residents as possible.
Despite the challenges both Simpini and Ndoua, with all their Jefferson House colleagues, have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, they keep a positive attitude because they that their work is making a difference in someone’s life.
“I have always loved working with seniors and I love what I do,” Ndoua said. “It can definitely be challenging at times, especially these days, but we just do what we have to do and make sure we have a smile on our faces. Sometimes, just having a meaningful conversation with someone you are caring for can be the most rewarding feeling.”
Photo: N’Mey Ndouna works the night shift at Jefferson House, making sure patients have everything they need, especially emotional support. It’s a job she loves because it leaves her feeling like she’s made a difference in people’s lives. Photo by Rusty Kimball