n with Stonehill Living well
“It’s true that if you don’t use it you lose it. I feel better and I’m a better person when I’m active and taking care of my body and mind.”
– Jack Noel Wellness Center Member
The Stonehill Communities Campus
Stonehill Updates
01. Welcoming Our New Priest
In September, we will welcome Fr. Eric Muoneke as a new team member. We look forward to having a dedicated priest to serve the residents. Under his appointment by the Archdiocese, Fr. Eric will split his time between Stonehill and MercyOne hospital. He will preside over daily Mass at both the Health Center and Assisi Village, provide spiritual counsel to residents and family members, offer anointing, hear confessions, and lead other spiritual activities. We look forward to having him on our team to help provide for residents’ spiritual health. His office will be located off the hallway near the San Damiano Chapel in the Health Center.
03. On-Site CNA Course
Stonehill is continually looking for ways to grow the healthcare workforce, provide employee growth opportunities, and attract new employees. As a part of these efforts, we have applied for and been approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing to teach our own CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) course on-site. Three of our nurse leaders will act as certified instructors. The first class will begin in late September and is already filled with employees seeking CNA certification. Generous funding from the Schoen Family and Dupaco will help us prepare and equip the classroom with state of the art technology including a patient simulator manikin. We anticipate offering four courses per year.
02. Milestone Employees
Each year, Stonehill celebrates employees and the important and excellent work they do during Employee Appreciation Week. This includes fun events, food, activities, and our Service Awards that recognize our team members who have reached milestone years of service. This year, 37 team members were recognized for years of service ranging from 5 years up to an incredible 45 years! Congratulations to two members of our housekeeping staff, Alice Brehm and Nancy Anglin, on 45 years of outstanding work and committment to the residents and their families.
04. Customer Satisfaction
In addition to monitoring health outcomes, financial goals, service utilization, and other metrics to guide operations, we measure customer satisfaction through surveys provided to residents, post-acute patients, Wellness Center members, and resident families. The responses to the surveys help us quantify our success in providing high quality, compassionate service in all departments. It also helps identify areas for improvement. This year, through our surveys, 92.42% of the individuals surveyed shared that they would recommend Stonehill to others needing similar services. What a great testament to the care and support from all departments.
Summer brings lots of activity opportunities for residents at Assisi Village. Residents have been enjoying summertime crafts, pet therapy, golf cart rides throughout campus, and trips to Betty Jane Candies, Dairy Queen, and Eagle Point Park. Residents have also enjoyed going to the Arboretum every Sunday for Music in the Park and our Man Cave group enjoyed lunch on the porch at the Arboretum, followed by golf cart tours
of the gardens. Some of our residents like spending time tending to Assisi’s raised vegetable and flower beds, and others prefer enjoying the views of our gardens while they visit on the front porch or have a glass of wine under our pergola. Feel free to stop by and enjoy one of our summer activities. Family and friends are always welcome!
You may have noticed a new face at Assisi Village’s front desk recently. Amanda Richard has started as the new Resident Services Coordinator. Amanda is already busy giving tours to prospective residents, coordinating new admissions, managing residents’
Amanda Richard 563.690.9669 arichard@stonehilldbq.com
View our monthly activities at stonehilldbq.com transportation needs, and a variety of other things.
Amanda grew up in Dubuque and graduated from Loras College with a degree in Social Work. She worked at Luther Manor Communities for three years as a social worker and also at Molina Healthcare conducting assessments for Medicaid recipients.
Amanda’s social work background is a great benefit to residents and staff. In addition to her resident services responsibilities, she will also assist our Nurse Manager, with resident assessments.
After working from home for her last job, Amanda appreciates being back in an environment where she works with a team and interacts daily with residents. The residents make her happy, and she hopes she can put a smile on their faces and contribute to making their home a good experience.
Tom tends the raised outdoor garden he planted.
I hope you have all been enjoying your summer. Our residents have been keeping busy with DQ bus rides and picnics on the patio. We have some great opportunities for family and friends to come join their loved ones in the next few months.
As summer comes to and end we would like to invite you to a bonfire in our backyard on August 13th from 6-8pm. We will have music
and s’mores for you to enjoy while you relax around the fire. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
On August 15th we have Fever River Puppeteers performing Fido’s Flea Circus at 1:30 pm in the Coffee Shop. Then, on August 16th, we have the Cruising with Compassion motorcycle event. A group of riders will be coming to the Health Center main entrance at 1:30pm to greet residents and show off their bikes. If you are interested in joining this ride, please contact Robin Downey at 563.690.9677. Let’s rev those engines and put a smile on our residents faces!
September is such a great month to get out and enjoy the change of season. As the leaves start to change we will be taking resi-
dents on leaf rides and of course our annual trips to Breitbachs. You can also look forward to a Fall Festival on September 25th from 1:30-3:30 pm at the main entrance. We will have games, music, a bake sale, shopping and more!
Halloween and trick or treating will be here before we know it. October 30th from 1:15-3:45 pm will be our Annual Stonehill Trick or Treating event. Last year the residents had so much fun handing out candy and they loved seeing the little ones dressed up. They may have enjoyed the candy as much as the children did too! Last year we had over 50 bags of candy donated for this event and we hope to exceed that amount this year. If you are able to contribute a bag or two, candy can be dropped off with the receptionist at the Health Center.
Marilyn enjoys a sundae from a Dairy Queen outing.
Rita enjoys a pet therapy visit from Ozzie.
In June, several of our residents were featured in a TV commercial for Stonehill that was shown on KCRG Channel 9 with the Dubuque “Our Town” segment. We loved being able to showcase how residents are living well on our campus and spread the word about our full continuum of health and wellness services! If you missed it, you can see our commercial on our Facebook page or YouTube channel.
The coming of fall will prompt our clinical team to begin the process of offering influenza and COVID vaccinations. Please watch for upcoming communications related to vaccine information, consent forms, and clinic offerings on-site. As always, residents may choose to receive or decline the vaccines offered.
Fall also means that students will soon be returning to continue education. So far this year, Stonehill has provided 7 employees with scholarships to continue their nursing education and 3 others received scholarships from the Iowa Health Care Association Foundation. We are happy to support them as they advance their healthcare careers!
Carol went fishing on an outing to Heritage Pond.
Bill, Carol, and Pat play Whack-amole on the Tovertafel “Magic Table” in the Memory Care Unit.
Tom and Isabel enjoy watercolor painting to music.
In July we welcomed a new friendly face in the Caregiver Resource Center. Taylor Hummer, Community Resource Coordinator is now the primary contact at the Caregiver Resource Center. Taylor has been with Stonehill for one and a half years, assisting our
social services team and coordinating support and community resources for residents at our neighboring Alverno Apartments. She has a degree in social work from University of Northern Iowa and is currently pursuing her master’s in social work.
The Center will continue providing the support, resources, educational programming, consultations, and self-care opportunities that were previously offered. All support groups, Memory Cafe, and the Music, Movement, and Memory program will continue as scheduled. Questions about upcoming groups and programs as well as RSVPs can be directed to Taylor. She will have regular office hours Mondays 8am-noon and Tuesdays through Fridays 12:30-4:30pm. If
Taylor Hummer 563.690.9679
thummer@stonehilldbq.com
you have a need, you are encouraged to set an appointment with Taylor to ensure we are able to provide assistance in a timely manner. We are also working with volunteers to assist when Taylor is not in the office.
Caregiver Wellness Retreat
We are looking forward to offering the Caregiver Wellness Retreat again this fall. The event will be Thursday, October 10th from 10am to 3:30pm at the Shalom Spirituality Center. We are blessed to have both Shalom and NEI3A as partners in organizing this event. This year’s retreat will include keynote speaker Diane Doer ing, a vendor fair and sack lunch, caregiver networking, and individual self-care and activity sessions. This event is free for non-pro fessional caregivers.
Registration is required and will be available Sep tember 1-30.
Learn more at www.stonehilldbq.com/ event/caregiver-retreat/ or 563.690.9679.
Home Care
Stonehill at Home can help smooth the transition from post-acute care to independence at home. Stonehill at Home works to provide a schedule of services that fits each individual’s unique needs to assist them in safe recovery. Recently we had a resident who came to our post-acute unit after a short stay in the hospital. Upon discharge from post-acute care, he chose to con-
tinue services with outpatient therapy. He was not able to drive yet and he wanted to be sure he was safe in the comfort of his own home. This is where Stonehill at Home stepped in, providing exactly what he needed to continue his recovery safely.
His Stonehill at Home Caregiver comes to his home twice a week and drives him to his therapy appointments. Following his therapy appointments, the caregiver assists with daily activities and errands. Some days they grocery shop, get a haircut, take a drive, or even go out for lunch. His caregiver was also able to assist with dishes, laundry, other household chores and meal prep. Having a caregiver took household concerns away and allowed him to focus on his recovery. As time passed and he regained strength and mobility, less assistance was needed. Though able to live independently, he has chosen to remain an active client. The companionship and support of his caregiver have become an important part of his value-based care, helping him live well at home.
Wellness
We have some exciting changes coming to the Wellness Center this fall. Watch for more information on new classes, expanded staff hours, and more!
Active Aging Week
Wellness includes much more than physical fitness, and this fall we are celebrating all the different aspects of living well and aging well during Active Aging Week. Observed September 30-October 4, Active Aging Week is a worldwide campaign launched by the International Council on Active Aging to promote the benefits of healthy aging and lifestyles.
We will be hosting daily activities and educational sessions throughout the week on physical, emotional, spiritual, vocational, and social wellness. Sessions will include yoga, spiritual reflection, a nature walk, nutrition, volunteerism, and a social gathering. These events will be free and open to the community at large.
Additional information and the schedule of activities will be available at www.stonehilldbq.com/activeagingweek or 563.690.9640.
Volunteering
Our 119 active volunteers at Stonehill are just that—active! Their dedication, compassion and desire to make a difference in the lives around them are profound. Volunteers provide service in the Health Center, Wellness Center, Caregiver Resource Center, Assisi Village, and Alverno Apartments. They provide musical entertainment, exercise classes, 1:1 compassion visits, pet therapy, massages, nail care, assistance with outings, dining support, educational presentations, and accompany residents to medical appointments. They help in our Chapels, our gardens and so much more.
Because of their support and love, residents are able to engage in so many opportunities. We thank them all for sharing their gifts and for answering our call to service.
Volunteer Opportunities
A few current opportunities include:
1. Bonfire Assistants
Help make S’mores and escort residents to and from the backyard bonfire.
2. Petting Zoo Animals
Bring your friendly farm animals to visit for a petting zoo in the Health Center backyard.
3. Trick or Treat Helpers
Help residents hand out candy to visitors or escort visitors throughout the campus for Trick or Treating.
3. Memory Care Activities Assistant
Assist staff in conducting resident activities in the Assisted Living Memory Care household.
4. Resident Companion
Visit 1 on 1 with residents at the Health Center or Assisi Village.
5. Activities at Alverno Apartments
Bingo calling on Mondays from 1-2:30 pm or leading an exercise class Tuesday-Friday 1-1:30 pm.
See opportunities and apply online at stonehilldbq.com/volunteer or call 563.690.9666.
Volunteers assemble new raised garden beds, assist with a fishing outing, and present on self-care.
Outpatient Therapy
Enhancing Life Through Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT) plays a vital role in improving the quality of life for seniors by addressing physical, emotional, and environmental challenges that can impact daily activities. As we age, tasks such as bathing, dressing, and household chores may become more difficult due to changes in strength, flexibility, and coordination. Occupational therapists specializing in geriatrics can provide personalized interventions to enhance independence and well-being.
A key focus of OT for older adults is assessing and addressing challenges related to activities of daily living (ADLs). This includes evaluating an individual’s ability to perform essential tasks like bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting independently. Our occupational therapists work
closely with patients to develop strategies and recommend adaptive equipment, such as shower chairs or grab bars, to facilitate safe and efficient completion of these tasks.
In addition to ADLs, OT addresses instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), which are more complex tasks necessary for independent living. These may include managing finances, using transportation, preparing meals, and performing household chores. Occupational therapists assess each individual’s abilities in these areas and provide training, adaptive techniques, and environmental modifications to support continued independence.
Occupational therapists may also promote social engagement and emotional well-being in older adults by identifying meaningful activities and interests. Participation in hobbies, community programs, and social gatherings not only enhances cognitive function but also fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.
Family and caregiver involvement is integral to the success of OT interventions. An important part of each therapy plan is education and training for caregivers on how to support their loved ones effectively and help them maintain their independence at home. The therapist may also provide recommendations for ongoing care and support, ensuring continuity and sustainability of improvements made through OT interventions.
Stonehill’s Outpatient Therapy Clinic is available to meet your Occupational Therapy needs. If you or a loved one would like to explore how occupational therapy can improve daily living, please contact us at 563.690.9637. Our skilled and compassionate team is ready to assist you in enhancing your quality of life through personalized care and support.
Member Spotlight
Jack Noel
According to Jack, living well means waking up every morning. He says at age 75, it’s no guarantee. Jack has been a Wellness Member since 2014, lifting weights and walking.
His wife, Rita, became a resident at the Health Center in 2020, just before everything was shut down due to the pandemic. He was unable to visit her for months. It was very hard on both of them. Now he visits daily, but living alone, he values the Wellness Center for the opportunity to socialize along with working out and has made a lot of friends there.
“I take care of my body and it also helps my mind. Working out is a big stress reliever, and I always have a better attitude after working out.”
Looking for even more ways to engage his mind, he recently became a volunteer. Like the Wellness Center, he enjoys the opportunities to see people and interact. He facilitates “Man Cave” once a month at Assisi Village, helps with online grocery orders, and plays cards.
“I enjoy the camaraderie.”
Spiritual Care
On October 4th we will celebrate the Feast of our patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi.
St. Francis of Assisi is a name many fondly recognize and associate with care for animals and nature, but you may wonder how a man that lived in the late 12th and early 13th centuries relates to us in 2024 and beyond. What about his faith, way of life, and ministry can speak to us and inspire us?
This is something that is explored in the Franciscan Way of Life program that is offered to Stonehill employees by the Sisters of St. Francis. Throughout this 2-year experience, students learn to foster right relationships by sharing the Franciscan charism (spiritual gifts and mission) in a focused way and inviting discernment on how to live this charism in their daily lives. Learning about how Francis was influenced, what drew him to a life of simplicity, deep spirituality, and concern for all of God’s creation, especially those in need, can help us better understand what inspired the Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque to begin Stonehill Franciscan Services to care for the aging in Dubuque in 1978.
Much has changed over the 40+ year history of our organization, but the care and concern for those in need, and a deep connection to our community has always been a firm foundation. We continue to be guided by the Franciscan values of compassion, hospitality, stewardship, and reverence. These values shape our daily interactions with each other and produce an environment of Christian love.
We hope that you see compassion in the staff that take extra time to get to know a resident’s history; hospitality in the way we smile at all who come through our doors; stewardship in the care our team takes to ensure a well-maintained campus; and reverence in the person-centered care and conversations held with our residents about their goals and preferences.
There are many, many more ways that these values, held by St. Francis and carried on by the staff across our campus, can be lived in your daily life. We encourage you to reflect, discern your charism, and live these values in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis and every day. “For it is in giving that we receive.”
-Rachel Heiderscheit Derby, Stonehill Social Worker and Franciscan Associate
Upcoming Events
Please join us at one of these upcoming events for family members, friends, and the community.
01. Caregiver Wellness Retreat
Thursday, October 10 10:00 am-3:30pm
Shalom Spirituality Center
1001 Davis St Dubuque, IA 52001
Non-professional caregivers are invited to attend this free retreat that will offer selfcare, relaxation, renewal, information, and connection with other caregivers. Registration opens September 1 at www.stonehilldbq.com/event/ caregiver-retreat.
02. Mass with Archbishop Zinkula
Friday, October 11 10:30 am
San Damiano Chapel
Stonehill Health Center
3485 Windsor Ave Dubuque, IA 52001
Family and friends are welcome to join us at a special Mass with Archbishop Zinkula. A social reception will follow in the Coffee Shop.
03. Stonehill Trick or Treat
Wednesday, October 30 2:00-3:45 pm
Stonehill Health Center
3485 Windsor Ave Dubuque, IA 52001
Children and grandchildren of resident families, Wellness Members, employees, and volunteers are invited to come dressed in costumes and trick or treat throughout the Health Center.
Stonehill Trivia Answer
Stonehill employs nearly 400 individuals across our campus and departments, making Stonehill one of the area’s largest employers. With a growing older adult population, we are always looking for ways to grow the healthcare workforce and encourage individuals to learn about the many opportunities on our campus and in the community.
Benevolent Foundation
On July 1 we welcomed a new primary contact for the Stonehill Communities Benevolent Foundation. Tracy Connolly is our new Director of Community Relations and Mission Advancement. She is responsible for fundraising efforts to support Stonehill’s continuum of health and wellness services.
“I’m excited to be a part of the bigger picture of the mission of Stonehill, to work with community members, and educate them on how we’re moving forward,” said Connolly, “Stonehill has had such wonderful donor support over the years. I am eager to connect with past and current donors and begin some new relationships.”
Tracy has been an employee of Stonehill Communities for two years. She previously served as Director of Outreach, overseeing the Caregiver Resource Center, Stonehill at Home, and the Stonehill Wellness Center.
Tracy can be reached at 563.690.9660 or tconnolly@stonehilldbq.com and is happy to assist with individual and organization gifts, contributions to our endowments, special events, planned gifts, and memorial giving.
In August, we look forward to celebrating the members of our Monthly Giving Club with a special appreciation breakfast. This generous group makes recurring monthly gifts to provide ongoing support for Stonehill’s programs and services. Learn more about the Monthly Giving Club and our other Giving Societies online at www.stonehilldbq.com/ givingoptions.
