PIONEER MEMORIAL NURSING HOME

by Gladys Long

Entry T61 from the History of Hooker County Nebraska
with permission of the Hooker County Historical Society

The building started in March 1963 for a
26 bed addition to the hospital for a chronic
wing. It was completed in 1965.

The new kitchen facilities are in the new
wing to serve both the hospital and nursing
home. There is a central heating system and
air conditioning with thermostatic controls in
each room. Handrails are throughout the
building with grabrails in all bathrooms and
toilets. Automatic fire detection and alarm
system was installed. Rooms are equipped
with `high low' beds. A large combination
dining room and lounge area for the comfort
of the residents. The lounge area is with
carpeting. There are built in drawers and
wardrobes in each room. There is a screened
in patio for the patients to enjoy.

Nurses aid classes started April 12, 1965 for
the nursing home Nurses Aid. The classes
were held in the new Nursing Home wing on
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7 to
9 P.M. with Gladys Long R.N. as instructor
and W ilbert Kizer, Administrator.

Open house was held on Sunday May 2,
1965 at the Nursing Home.

Federal and State Inspectors completed
their inspections and authorized issuance of
new license.

The first patients were moved into the Rest
Home May 20, 1965. They were Robert F.
Long, Arlie Wright, and Mae Gambill.

The Nursing Home began with 26 beds and
has been increased to 30 beds.

There are many activities for all of the
residents. The community Church Pastors
take part in Services. Church ladies provide
birthday cakes for current birthdays and
usually a birthday party is held for individ-
uals. Old time music and square dancing
provides enjoyable entertainment. There are
TV programs and Video Movies. Some of the
residents play Bingo once a week and there
are readings and card games.

In order to keep families in touch with their
loved ones, they are welcome to bring in a
meal and join the patients. Home cooked
meals are served to the residents three times
a day. The Aids do hair dressing and give
permanents and also cut hair.

The "Handy Bus" is available for those
residents able to be up and about, to go for
sight seeing rides.

The home has a friendly and attractive
atmosphere.