Safe Care for Seniors at Walker Methodist

In February 2020, Walker Methodist was recognized on the Safe Care Honor Roll for our system-wide practices of safe care. But what is Safe Care for Seniors, and why is it important?

Safe Care for Seniors is an initiative started by LeadingAge MN to help professionals in the senior living industry be proactive, giving them knowledge and words to prevent and/or stand up to the abuse of older adults. At Walker Methodist, our mission is Life. And all the living that goes with it. Enhancing the lives of older adults through a culture of care, respect, and service. Because we take every opportunity we can to empower our team members to live out this mission, we’re proud to support this program as a Committed Organization.

In our nearly 20 communities, we do not tolerate any kind of abuse or neglect of older adults. Leaders at Walker Methodist have a responsibility to be alert to signs and symptoms of elder abuse, as well as to educate teams to be aware and speak up. Together, we can make sure residents in our communities receive the best care possible.

To lead in this effort, we ask new team members to take the Safe Care Pledge during their community orientation. Additionally, we created a committee to review practices monthly. Each community will designate a Safe Care Champion to receive additional training through LeadingAge in order to educate their team.

We take our part in providing education and understanding of elder abuse seriously. This means we identify mistakes, take ownership of processes or symptoms, investigate reports thoroughly, and work together to protect residents. Just as our Honor Roll recognition affirmed our efforts, it also encouraged us to keep working hard to protect all who call Walker Methodist home.

To learn more about Safe Care for Seniors and explore resources, visit the LeadingAge website.