When in our third year, we interviewed an elder at Broadway Pentecostal Lodge, I did not know what to expect. At the time, I had little experience interacting with elders, as even my own extended family members are relatively young. Much like my experience at Positive Living, my preconceptions were influenced by stereotypes and stories I had heard about long term care facilities. I expected to meet a grumpy old man or lady; someone with bed-ridden and quick to scold me for wasting time they could use for a nap. Thankfully, I was very wrong. I met a lovely lady well into her nineties but quick as whip, who welcomed me into her “home”, patted a seat on her bed beside her, and asked me, “So, what’s up?”

I learned how communication is so important as a dental hygienist, and as a human being.  You learn so much by having an open mind and spending time with someone. The experience was unforgettable, and really prepared me for my practicum I was participate in the following year at Broadway Lodge.