As a state tested nursing assistant (STNA), I thoroughly enjoy about 99 percent of my job. However, the 1 percent I do not enjoy is completely preventable.

My residents miss their families. They miss their children, grandchildren, significant other, etc. Recognizing that you hardly get visitors, even though your time left on earth is limited, is devastating — especially to watch.

Residents in nursing homes confide in their caregivers. We are their advocates. We hold their hands as they cry. We comfort them and ensure they know they are loved. We feed, dress, lift, and help them. Sometimes, they use their call/emergency lights merely to talk to us. Honestly, this proves that they miss human contact. They miss having simple conversations such as "Hi, how are you today?"

For the most part, aides only have the time to make sure their physical and safety needs are met. We ask them if they need briefs, gloves, a shower, or even their laundry done. We try to be mentally there, but it is hard when the entire profession is understaffed.

Due to this, the residents are so lonely.

They miss being viewed as real human beings instead of "just a job."

We wish that we had the time to sit and talk, but it is not always feasible. It is easy to get caught up in your own lives, but a simple 15-minute visit could make all the difference. Let them know you love and think of them. Bring them some chocolate or flowers.

Remind them that they are not forgotten.

I know firsthand that a simple visit can bring your loved one so much joy. They will talk about it for weeks. They (mostly) remember that you came to see hem and everything you talk about. They love to hear about your everyday lives and the future generation.

Also, residents adore seeing children. Bring your babies with you! We will never hear the end of how precious they are.

The point of this is to remind you that those in nursing homes are still the same person they used to be. There may be changes physically and mentally. Despite this, your Aunt Jane still loves you and would enjoy seeing you.