At 95, Carmelite reflects on life serving the aged

"I don't like air conditioning. In fact, I'm planning on going out this afternoon to enjoy some of God's good warmth," she declared. Her evening plans included celebrating her 95th birthday. "I never miss a party," she added with a twinkle in her eye.

In June, she marked another milestone: 70 years in the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, years which she has dedicated to working on behalf of the elderly.

Loving the aged

"I had thought about it for some time; but you wait a while, make sure it's really what you want," she said.

Knowing that she had no inclination toward teaching, Mother Bernadette fell back on her affection for the elderly.

"I always liked older people, especially my grandparents," she said. "Older people have lived very interesting lives, usually."

White House years

"You can't do too much for the elderly," she told The Evangelist. "We should be happy to take care of them and give them the best care possible."

She took that motto to the White House in 1977, when she participated in a roundtable discussion with First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

"She was really a very nice person. She met with a group of us to discuss the needs, problems and desires of [the elderly]. She seemed to show real interest," Mother Bernadette said.

Better conditions

"The quality of care is better," she said. "Fifty years ago, you wouldn't find a building" like Teresian House, which is run by her order. "That is the specific work of our community; most people think of sisters as teachers."

Mother Bernadette's knowledge of elderly care inspired her to write a book in the 1950s. "Where Somebody Cares" gave information on the mental, emotional and physical needs of the aging.

As far as role models are concerned, Mother Bernadette calls Pope John Paul II an inspiration to the aging. "I think he's great, the way he travels. Nothing stops him. His mind is good. His mere presence does so much," she said.

Reflections

Mother Bernadette is also impressed by the strides in the arts, science and research. Increased travel to other countries also pleases her.

"I like how people care for people in other countries, especially for the aging," she said.

(Mother Bernadette will be honored at the Carmelite Lifetime Achievement Awards on August 1 at the Saratoga Reading Room, along with Bishops Howard J. Hubbard and Edwin B. Broderick. Tickets at the door are $100 for patrons, $75 for general admission and $50 for those under 35. For reservations, call 456-2000, ext. 323, by July 29.)

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