Gloria Maust, receiving her award from John Dickson, past chair of LeadingAge PA.

Gloria Maust, a certified nursing assistant in the RiverWoods Senior Living Community nursing care center for 46 years, has won the LeadingAge PA Caregiver of the Year Distinguished Service Award.

Maust was among more than 100 nominations submitted for the 2017 Distinguished Service Awards presented by LeadingAge PA, a trade association representing more than 360 not-for-profit providers of senior housing, healthcare and community services across the commonwealth.

“Gloria has dedicated her career to improving the lives of seniors through providing the highest quality of nursing care,” Albright Care Services president and CEO Shaun Smith wrote in Maust’s nomination letter. “In addition to the longevity of her service, she is deserving of the award for her exceptionally positive attitude, ability to adapt to change and willingness to serve as a mentor and leader.”

Even through the magnitude of changes in health care regulations, capital projects and management alterations, Maust has been an unwavering employee. She works effortlessly to adapt to every change, is patient and has become an invaluable role model for numerous nursing assistant trainees. She works diligently to develop personal relationships with each person. This connection allows her to recognize a resident’s need often before they do, and enables her to give observant and thoughtful updates on their health and progression.

She has been the recipient of numerous accolades and compliments from residents, family members and staff over the years, not only for the compassionate care that she gives but for her friendship, support and caring demeanor. Most recently, she received Albright’s Best of the Best award, honoring employees who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the areas of attitude, dedication, innovation, motivation, skills, enthusiasm and contributions to the corporation.

“For her dedication and love of her profession, and commitment to our residents, mission and values, I wholeheartedly believe that Gloria exemplifies the attributes of this esteemed award,” said Lennea Brown, RiverWoods executive director.

RiverWoods Senior Living Community is owned and operated by Albright Care Services, a faith-based non-profit corporation that serves all of central Pennsylvania. Albright also owns and operates Normandie Ridge Senior Living Community in York; Living Independently For Elders (LIFE) sites in Williamsport, Lebanon and Lancaster; and manages Warrior Run Manor, a HUD-approved housing complex in Watsontown. For more information on Albright, visit www.albrightcare.org.