There are some companies that are determined to end up in the headlines for all of the wrong reasons. They treat their employees poorly and make headlines because of their total lack of understanding. One supermarket has decided to buck that trend. When one of their employees was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, they decided to help them out instead of sending them packing.
Doron Salomon has shared this mother about his story, in hopes of shedding light on this supermarket’s level of kindness. Sainsbury’s hired her 7 years ago. She has been a great worker ever since. She’s a picker and she is skilled when it comes to the handling of online orders. Eventually, she received her diagnosis and the doctors told her that she was not able to work anymore.
To my mum, cleaning the tote boxes became the most important job in the world. If she didn't do it the store would fall apart. The sense of self-worth and pride has undeniably helped with aspects of her Alzheimer's, such as giving her something to talk about in social situations.
— Doron Salomon (@DoronSalomon) March 4, 2018
Sainsbury’s decided to look out for her and allow her to stay on. Instead of casting her aside once they received the diagnosis, Sainsbury’s made a unique decision. They were going to retrain her. She had not lost her ability to learn at this time. All she needed was a little bit of help. The store wanted to learn as much as possible about her condition.
Nearly 6 months later, yesterday was her last day. Even when they probably should have let her go they didn't until now. My mum was emotional but relieved. Senior management have acted with compassion and handled everything with class and dignity.
— Doron Salomon (@DoronSalomon) March 4, 2018
After all, they did not want to lose a long time employee in such a way. Even when she would arrive at the store and look confused, they would create a role for her so that she could stay. She was kept on for a few extra months and they gave her a brand new title. Doron’s mother was taught how to clean totes and this allowed her to remain useful during her twilight years.
This is one stone that went above and beyond to make sure that their employees were well taken care of. While most stores would have probably let the woman go as soon as her memory started to slip away from her, Sainsbury’s was not going to allow anything to happen to her. After her last day, Doron took to his Twitter account to tell the world around his experience.
Hi Doron. It’s clear your mum’s contribution was valued as one of our colleagues, regardless of her condition. The team here were quite moved reading your tweets. We’ll make sure the right people get to hear about this. Thanks. Ross.
— Sainsbury's (@sainsburys) March 4, 2018
When seniors start to experience the onset of cognitive decline, it is important for them to remain useful. Giving seniors small tasks to do is great way to keep their minds sharp. Did this story warm your heart as much as it did ours? If so, be sure to pass it along to your friends and loved ones as soon as possible.
