February 9, 2023
Brodey Hanson, executive director at The Bridges at Ankeny, enjoys working in long-term care and has a passion for providing the highest quality of care for his residents. The Bridges at Ankeny was recognized as a 2022 Governor’s Award for Quality Health Care Facilities. The Governor’s Award recognizes Iowa health care facilities that offer unique or innovative activities to enhance the quality of care or quality of life for their residents. Additionally, Brodey is a member of the 2022-2023 IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute.
How did you get started in the long-term care profession?
I worked for Mercy Medical Center in Clinton, IA. They created a position for me to oversee the finances for two skilled nursing facilities.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
I enjoy being an advocate for our most vulnerable population and that no two days are the same. Some days are filled with meetings and paperwork where others are dealing blackjack and serving pizza.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
If you have a passion for getting to know people, learning about their personal past and how they lived during different eras in time, then senior living is the field for you. I enjoy getting to know a resident well and creating a positive impact on their lives that when they were on hospice and I was halfway around the world, they didn’t pass until they heard my voice to know it was okay to go to heaven and I was safe. Even after her passing, her family and I remain close to this day.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also helps outside of work?
I have learned empathy and patience. Working in senior living does truly bring out the best of our basic behaviors as people. You laugh together, smile together and sometimes cry with each other. You grow patience for repeating tasks and always look to change one day.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy traveling, playing volleyball and visiting state parks with my dog. I also enjoy working with my special Olympics team as a volunteer coach.
What is your favorite quote and why?
“Scatter kindness.” The quote in itself is good; however, it came from my first director that believed in me and offered me the opportunity to work in the health care industry.
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