Susan Kalinda, R.N., Recognized in Boston Globe

The May 10 edition of the Boston Globe featured its annual “Salute to Nurses.” Billerica resident Susan Kalinda, R.N., was recognized for her exemplary work as a nurse at Harvard Medical School affiliate Hebrew SeniorLife (HSL), a nonprofit organization that’s committed to improving the lives of older adults as a leader in the field of senior care. HSL is based in Roslindale.

The annual “Salute to Nurses” publication recognizes nurses whose dedication and caring have saved lives, soothed fears, and eased the pain of countless patients and their families. The Boston Globe received nearly 500 nominations for its 2020 edition.

Kalinda joined HSL 12 years ago and works at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center (HRC) in Roslindale. HRC is HSL’s long-term chronic care hospital with campuses in Roslindale and at NewBridge on the Charles in Dedham.

Kalinda was nominated by a family member who wrote in their “Salute to Nurses” nomination,

“Susan is the head nurse on the fifth-floor memory unit at HRC. She puts her patients first, and knows each of the dementia patients on the floor. She is an advocate for their needs, and provides families with support as their loved ones slip away and their dementia takes over. Susan sets high standards for the staff, and makes sure they provide the best care possible under difficult circumstances. She watches over the little things, such as making sure my loved one got new glasses and participates in activities to stimulate her brain, which could possibly slow the progression of her disease. Susan counsels us on what to expect in the future, and what is best for today. She makes us feel that our loved one is safe, well cared-for, and in a place where everyone cares about her.”

Hebrew SeniorLife offers many opportunities for nurses to advance their careers through professional development, tuition assistance, and leadership opportunities.

About Hebrew SeniorLife

Hebrew SeniorLife is a national senior services leader dedicated to rethinking, researching, and redefining the possibilities of aging. As New England’s largest nonprofit provider of senior health care and living communities, and the only one affiliated with Harvard Medical School, HSL cares for more than 3000 seniors a day across six campuses throughout Greater Boston. Locations include: Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, Boston and Dedham; NewBridge on the Charles, Dedham; Orchard Cove, Canton; Simon C. Fireman Community, Randolph; Center Communities of Brookline, Brookline; and Jack Satter House, Revere. Founded in 1903, HSL also conducts influential research into aging and trains more than 1,000 students in geriatric care each year. Visit https://www.hebrewseniorlife.org, follow us on Twitter @H_SeniorLife, like us on Facebook, or read our blog.