HJBR Sep/Oct 2025

CARING TOGETHER 22 SEP / OCT 2025 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF BATON ROUGE   Healing Doesn’t Always Come from Medicine The Nursing Home ReformAct doesn’t just focus on medical care, it also emphasizes emotional, social, and psychological well-being. That means residents have the right to more than just treatment; they have the right to purpose. Federal regulations require nursing homes to support residents in reaching their highest practicable level of physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. This includes encouraging volunteering, writing, mentoring, spiritual engagement, or anything else that brings meaning. Activities should be resident-directed, not one-size-fits-all; what matters is what matters to them. Whether it’s writing a newsletter, organizing a bingo game, teaching a language, or starting a book club, purpose isn’t fluff; it’s function. And it belongs in the care plan. Mind-Body Connection: More Than Medicine While policies and protocols help define care, the human expe- rience of aging is shaped just as much by emotion, engagement, and connection. As medical teams and ombudsmen work together to uphold residents’ rights and well-being, it’s crucial to remember healing doesn’t always come from medicine. Sometimes, it comes from a smile, a song, a purpose, or simply the presence of some- one who cares. The Power of a Smile A smile isn’t just a gesture; it’s a neurological event. Smiling releases dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, the body’s natural “feel good”chemicals. In long-term care, where residents may expe- rience loneliness or confusion, a warm smile builds trust, eases fear, and opens the door to connection, especially for those who rely on nonverbal cues. Socialization — A Vital Sign Isolation isn’t just unpleasant; it’s a health risk. Older adults without consistent social contact are at higher risk for depression, cognitive decline, and even early death. In contrast, residents who engage socially enjoy stronger immune function, greater emotional resilience, and a deeper sense of belonging. Socialization should be treated as a core part of care, not an afterthought. Music as Medicine Music reaches places medicine cannot. It calms the nervous sys- tem, sparks memories in residents with dementia, and reduces agi- tation. Curated playlists, reflecting the residents’ preferences and history, can create peace, joy, and connection. Purpose — The Mind-Body Connector Purpose fuels vitality. Residents who feel needed, who have a reason to rise each day, are more likely to be mobile, optimistic, and engaged. Even small roles can create big health benefits.