As local communities continue to return to normalcy this holiday season with gatherings of friends and family happening once more, it can be easy to overlook how many older adults are still facing health crises including dementia and loneliness. With November being National Long Term Care Awareness Month, Cox Communications recently asked members of the public to nominate a professional specializing in elder care for a chance to be recognized for their many achievements.

The winners include of the 2022 “Long Term Care Heroes” campaign include: Sylvia Weber, psychiatric nurse, CareLink in Cranston; Marie Moran, CNA, Health Care Services in Providence; Jadranka Grek Cicovacki, director of memory care, Brightview Commons/Wellspring Village in Wakefield and Jan Rupert, activities director, Linn Healthcare in East Providence.

 “Older adults hope to maintain their independence and individualism, even as they increasingly need help with basic daily tasks – and our long-term care workers are essential to helping them preserve their lifestyle while addressing new challenges,” said Senator Louis DiPalma (D-Dist. 12), a member of the state’s long-term care coordinating council. “I am pleased to see these dedicated workers get the recognition they deserve and applaud Cox for taking the lead in honoring them.”

The nominations were packed with colorful anecdotes showing there is no limit to the dedication of these seasoned professionals. From arranging candlelit dinners for couples who could no longer go out to eat to working with advanced dementia patients for decades, long-term care workers are devoted to the needs of society’s most vulnerable members and committed to making their later years as comfortable as possible.

The request for recommendations was executed over Facebook and through direct outreach to community leaders. Cox has recognized four workers in Rhode Island with $500 cash awards and a $250 donation made in their name to the nonprofit of their choosing. Cox employees chose the winners with the help of members of Rhode Island’s long-term care community, ultimately choosing to honor four professionals from Seekonk to South Kingstown.

“Cox is honored to recognize and celebrate long-term care workers in the Ocean State as part of our most recent campaign,” said Ross Nelson, northeast region manager, Cox Communications. “We all have a connection to an older adult who has been a fixture in our families or in the community, and it is through the efforts of long-term care professionals that they can age with dignity. Thank you to all of our winners and healthcare professionals around the state for everything you do.”