Aging in America- Our Heritage of Wisdom
a series of thirty-six pencil drawings by artist jim branscum

 

One of the biggest challenges I face as the artist for the Aging in America drawing project is selecting models. Yet, before I had begun the interview,  I was impressed by the concern and love for Ernest shown by his son.  If he agreed to pose for me,  Ernest would be my seventh model for this series.  The near adoration of his son is rarely seen in our "throw away" society.  Often the measure of the individual’s worth is calculated by his or her productivity;  "What you can do for me."  Through his son’s actions, it was evident that his feelings for his father were,  "for what you have done for me."  The relationship was based on mutual respect and admiration. When I began to talk to Ernest,  I understood.

During WWI,  Ernest and his two brothers worked in a munitions plant in England.  Because their services were deemed vital to the war effort,  they were exempt from military service.  After the war, he and his wife immigrated to America.  Ernest Kernick became a citizen in 1928.  He was employed as a private chauffeur for a very prominent family.  He retired after thirty-five years with the same employer.  Many years after his employment was over, Ernest still maintained the privacy of the family.  His life is best described as one of balance between family, friends, activities and his faith in God.  He has led a successful and full life.

As a resident of long term care,  Ernest has the most important ingredient for life still with him:  the active support and love of his family.  The decision to seek long term care was a family decision with Ernest’s full participation.  Facilities were carefully researched with visits and interviews with the staff and residents.  When all questions were answered and all options discussed, Ernest selected his present home.

Ernest moved to Clinton-Aire Nursing Center a little over three years prior to my visit.  I judge a facility by the praise,   or lack of praise,  of the facilities residents.  Speaking of Clinton-Aire, Ernest states,  "Everyone here is so good to me.  They just seem to love me."  Knowing the Administrator,  Grace Larocca,  and of her concerns for the residents in her care,  I was not surprised.  As I complete this drawing on this series,  I realize I am developing a growing respect for those who provider health care for our aging citizens.

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