Page 15 - Healthcare Heores 2021

HEALTHCARE HEROES OF WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
needed to dive into a get a better look.” This explains why Armbrook has been
proactive in training its staff, and workers at other facilities, on how to be what she called an ‘upstander’ — someone who can nip bullying in the bud if they see it happening.
“We help people understand the concept,” she went on, adding that these ‘upstanders’ promote random acts of kindness and discourage the saving of seats.
Meanwhile, COVID-19 has brought new challenges for the community and new ways for Armbrook to broaden its reach, said Cardillo, listing, among other initiatives, a continuing-education program for social workers focused on COVID and seniors.
There’s also a support group, which meets the last Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., for those who are caregivers for those with dementia, a program that is open to those from Greater Westfield and has been continued through the pandemic via virtual sessions.
“That was incredible because we were
able to get family members from across the country,” she said, highlighting one of the benefits of the technology. “Being a caretaker is very difficult, and people need to know that they’re not alone. They need resources, they need suggestions and recommendations, and, above all, they need friends.”
Single-minded in Her Purpose
As she talked about her work and what
Beth Cardillo, seen here
with several residents of Armbrook Village, has found many ways to extend the facility’s influence far beyond its four walls.
drives her as a professional, Cardillo said it comes down to her simple philosophy about the elderly and the attention and respect they deserve.
“I think everyone in the world has a purpose, and I think we forget that with the elderly,” she explained. “So one of my goals has always been to keep helping people find that purpose in their lives.”
She has exceeded that goal and many others, especially with her overarching work to make Armbrook an important part of the much larger community that is Western Mass.
Her success in that realm, which is defined by new and different avenues for making a difference, has made her a Healthcare Hero for 2021. n
Leading Senior Living
in the Right Direction
Armbrook Village offers residents enriching everyday experiences aimed at promoting independence, inspiring curiosity and encouraging connection with others. We offer each resident a tailored mix of wellness, support and care options to meet their needs now and as they change.
ON BEHALF OF ALL OF US
AT ARMBROOK VILLAGE
Beth Cardillo, Executive Director
FOR BEING OUR HEALTHCARE HERO
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING I COMPASS MEMORY SUPPORT 551 North Road, Westfield MA I ArmbrookVillage.com
Call or text to schedule a tour today! 508.473.0035
OCTOBER 2021 A15
2021 HEALTHCARE HEROES