FORT WAYNE – The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program hosted its 2nd annual symposium on August 8th, which brought together professionals serving the senior care community. “The Power of Together”, this year’s symposium theme, featured three experts on topics of elder law, mental health, and wellbeing, aimed at educating and encouraging serving the senior community.
Speakers included Joseph Blazier with Mental Health of Northeast Indiana, Monique Johnson with Allen Country Drug and Alcohol Consortium, and keynote speaker Michael Holmes with Wield Well-Being.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, a nonprofit serving Allen County and nine area counties, advocates for residents of long-term care facilities who feel their rights are being violated. The annual symposium strives to inspire professionals in the community by addressing care-related issues and providing unique insight for personal growth.
“This year’s symposium was especially successful because of the spectacular people who graciously agreed to speak at our event,” said Zanzy Lewis, executive director, “Joseph, Monique and Michael all brought unique ideas and perspectives about topics in long-term healthcare that you would not particularly think about otherwise.”
Holmes provided an especially unique perspective by creating an interactive activity during his time on stage to highlight strategies to improve overall wellness in the workplace. Holmes founded Wield Well-Being after years of collegiate and professional experience as an athletic trainer, including stints with the NFL’s Denver Broncos and United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee. He is currently the athletic trainer for the USA Goalball Team through Turnstone in Fort Wayne.
“We all know that healthcare professionals have a demanding job,” said Holmes. “Burnout is a challenge and impacts quality of care. These ideas for wellbeing can began to combat that.”
“We could not be more grateful for this year’s turnout, and we’re already planning for ways to build on it for next year. Plus, we have our ‘Power of Together’ fundraiser in a few months which we’re pumped for,” said Lewis.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s annual fundraiser themed “Power of Together” is planned for Thursday, October 24th. This event includes dinner, drinks, live music, silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and more.
To learn more about the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and upcoming events, visit https://www.doingthegood-ombudsman.org/