Sharon Wisniewski is the new Director of Personal Care at Brompton Heights Assisted Living Residence. Sharon is a Licensed Practical Nurse with a significant healthcare background. She served as Director of Personal Care of Ransomville Manor, where she provided oversight of the group’s clinical staff and all in-services and admissions for the residence.  During the seven years prior to her employment at Ransomville Manor, Sharon held the position of Resident Care Coordinator at The Waters of Gasport; in this position she supervised a 42-bed long-term care unit. She also held clinical positions with St. Catherine Laboure Healthcare Center, DeGraff skilled nursing facility, and the Newfane Healthcare Center.  Sharon has an extensive background in Department of Health regulations and compliance. She also offers a strong focus on staff development and training.  In addition, she is Red Cross certified to teach basic first aid, CPR, and AED. Welcome, Sharon!

Sharon's Summertime Safety Tips for Seniors Living Alone

Summertime heat can be dangerous for anyone. Seniors living alone may have a higher risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Sharon Wisniewksi, Director of Personal Care at Brompton Heights, shares her tips on how to stay cool, recognize signs of heat-related illness, and take action should these symptoms occur.

During the heat of summer, it is best to:

• Stay out of the sun or any especially hot place
• Remain indoors in air conditioning and keep shades drawn on the sunny side of your home
• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks
• Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing
• Take cool showers or baths
• Consult with your doctor about any conditions that may make you especially sensitive to heat.

The following may be symptoms of heat related-illness:

• Hot, red skin
• Rapid pulse
• Loss of alertness
• Confusion
• Heavy sweating
• Fainting
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Weakness
• Muscle cramps in the abdominal area.

If you think you may be suffering from heat-related illness, Sharon suggests that you:

• Go to a cool place and sit near a fan
• Place cool cloths on your neck, face, and arms
• Sip water slowly, about ½ glass every 15 minutes (stop drinking and call for medical help if vomiting occurs)
• If you are having cramps, apply firm pressure to the affected muscle or gently stretch the muscle for 20 seconds, then massage
• Call for medical attention or at least advise a loved one of your condition.

September Resident of the Month

Richard has been a resident at Brompton Heights for twelve years. He is always giving praise and encouragement to his fellow residents. Ladies can count on him to opens doors for them. During football season, Richard never misses a Bills game. He enjoys attending tailgate parties in the Recreation Room with his friends.His favorite thing about Brompton: the entertainment! Congratulations, Richard.

Introducing Anthony, Brompton's Newest Chef . . .

Anthony discovered his love for cooking at a very young age. He grew up in a large Italian family and often helped his mother prepare meals. He began working in a restaurant as a dishwasher while in still high school. Anthony quickly worked his way up the ranks and landed his first sous chef position at age 18--in an Italian restaurant, of course! By the age of 23 he was the Head Chef of Joe's Restaurant in Ithaca, NY. After moving to Buffalo, he worked at The Old Red Mill and The Little White House. He also completed a culinary program in Pittsburgh. Anthony loves working with all kinds of food and is proud of his Italian heritage. Welcome, Anthony!

Happy 100th Birthday, Vera!

On June 16th Vera will celebrate her 100th birthday. Vera worked as a switchboard operator at NFT Bus Company in Virginia for 20 years. After moving to Buffalo, she worked at a downtown transportation center until she retired. Vera married her husband William, a musician, in 1926; they enjoyed 34 wonderful years together. At Brompton Heights Vera enjoys eating, socializing with her friends, receiving visitors, and reading.

Happy Birthday, Vera, from all of us at Brompton Heights!