Heartland of Dublin: Starting the Day on the Right Foot

With about 50 percent of residents receiving short-term care, Heartland of Dublin calls the Preferences for Everyday Living Inventory (PELI) a “very important tool.” Among the benefits, Heartland uses the PELI to help staff learn quickly about residents’ preferred wake-up times and identify late-risers. Sometimes residents feel too tired or weak to engage if staff members wake them up earlier than they wish.

Activities Director Hilary Rheinheimer explains that many residents prefer to wake up later in the morning. The PELI helps them identify these residents and adjust therapy, bathing and mealtimes in line with each person’s wishes.

Positive Outcomes

Rheinheimer finds that matching therapy schedules to preferences means that residents get more rest, and they are more likely to engage in therapy as well as other activities throughout the day.

Heartland of Dublin has found that honoring preferences for rising has significantly decreased refusal rates for therapy. Rheinheimer remarks, “We have used this tool many times, and it helps us ensure [our residents’] overall happiness — and gets each day started on the right foot.”

Thanks to Hilary Rheinheimer and the Activities Department at the Heartland of Dublin for sharing this story!