Viki Kind interviews author of Becoming Dead Right, Frances Shani Parker, "Improving Nursing Homes"

Viki Kind interviews author of Becoming Dead Right - A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes, Frances Shani Parker, on "Improving Nursing Homes" An award-winning writer, consultant, and former school principal, Frances shares insights and experiences about her years of hospice volunteering in Detroit nursing homes. Using stories, poems, and general information, she has written a groundbreaking book that is an inclusive and literal guide for becoming dead the right way. Topics include hospice, caregiving, dementia, death, bereavement, and strategies for improving eldercare and nursing homes. While universal perspectives are presented, the often missing views of people of color and residents in urban nursing homes are examined. Frances' background as an educator and her upbringing in New Orleans, LA add interesting layers to her problem solving in nursing homes and to her descriptive storytelling. She uses her writing and public speaking skills to advocate for senior citizens and promote conversations empowering others to have dignified death journeys. Her favorite anonymous quote is "If you think one person can't make a difference, you haven't been to bed with a mosquito." Visit Frances in cyberspace at www.francesshaniparker.com and at her blog titled "Hospice and Nursing Homes Blog."