This story comes to us from Sarah Bishop, Social Services Mentor/Household Coordinator at The Davis Community in Wilmington, NC.
The husband of a resident (“Mr. Smith”) was in the team room saying that what he appreciated most about the house was the fact that the staff cares so much for both the residents AND families. Here is what triggered this affirmation: Dana, a Social Worker, walked into Mrs. Smith’s room. Everyone knew she was in her final days, and Dana observed Mrs. Smith in a most peaceful state, holding Mr. Smith’s hand and rubbing his arm. She looked so contented and at peace, and after her struggles with dementia, it was awesome to 
see. Dana asked Mr. Smith for his phone and was able to capture that moment on video for him, and Mr. Smith shared it with his wife’s out-of-town family, to show how at peace and comfortable she was then. He said the family members were so appreciative of this captured moment, and he became a bit tearful, saying, “Not every place thinks that this is important, but you’ve all made it so. And I don’t know what to say to that, except thank you.” Sarah knows that other families at The Davis Community have similar feelings, and is sure such thoughtfulness happens throughout the community. She says that, “‘death with dignity’ has become such a customary way of doing things that we overlook how special this event is. When we’re looking at household progression and successes, I hope we focus on this one in a huge way. Talk about this in your learning circles, and the impact that everyone is making without even realizing it. Staff deserves to feel good about this because really… what better gift to give?”
Hear more voices from households
Neighbors blog - from Action Pact 