October 28, 2019
As the executive director of Accura Healthcare of Stanton, Gwen Larsen considers the residents as a second family. She enjoys thinking outside of the box and being creative in order to make residents feel at home and comfortable. Thank you for all you do, Gwen!
How did you get started in the long-term care profession?
This is a second career for me. I’ve always enjoyed working with others and helping them succeed with their goals.
What do you like most about working in long-term care?
The residents are what I love most. I get to be a part of their lives. Holding their hands or giving them a hug when they need it fills my heart with so much joy.
What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
If you have a compassionate heart, patience, strong work ethic, upbeat attitude, love to share and want to make a difference in someone’s life – then working in long-term care is for you.
What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help you outside of work?
I try as hard as I can to leave work at work and home at home. Sometimes it is hard to not bring work home, especially on the sad days. I also involve my family with fun activities at work so they can see why I care so much about the residents. They enjoy getting to meet my “other” family and share in the smiles.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
Spending time with my family, whether it’s at dinner, kids’ school activities or going for walks. Alone time is rare but oh so appreciated.
What is your favorite quote and why?
“Logic will get you from A to B but imagination will take you everywhere.” – Albert Einstein.
When working with residents you must think outside the box, whether it’s for a fall, an activity or working with a dementia resident. Being creative and having fun makes their lives happier as well as mine! Being in the place where the resident is – no matter if it’s now or 1972 – joining them in the moment and using your imagination as to what it was like for them in 1972 is the place to be.
More about the Member Spotlight
Recognize your best employees! Select an employee to complete this form and return it to info@iowahealthcare.org. Photos of the selected employee are also encouraged, but not required. The photo release form can be found here.
We will feature the Member Spotlights in the Weekly Bulletin, the IHCA Facebook page and the IHCA website.