While there are many concerns about transitioning to an assisted living community, the benefits of a life enrichment program make it a worthwhile choice. One concern about transitioning is that the life of the individual making the transition may have trouble adjusting to the lifestyle change. In assisted living, daily responsibilities such as preparing meals or home maintenance are significantly reduced, leading to an abundance of free time. However, thinking about filling all that newfound free time can be overwhelming. A well-designed life enrichment program helps residents engage in meaningful activities, build connections, and maintain a sense of purpose.
What is Life Enrichment?
Communities such as the Retreat at Sunny Vista are dedicated to the full well-being of their residents, we strive to provide programming for all. Activities are important to the overall quality of life, but life enrichment is even more crucial. “Enrichment is defined as the action of improving or enhancing the quality or value of something,” says the Life Enrichment Director for the Retreat at Sunny Vista. “We strive each day to accomplish that by creating opportunities for laughter, sharing, and even storytelling.”
Some of this is accomplished through regular programming, events, and outings that allow residents to pursue some of their favorite things. These include:
- Church services and bible devotionals
- Outings, both in-person and virtual
- Movies
- Bingo
- Happy hours and dinners
- Group exercise, including chair Yoga
- Aromatherapy
- Various live musical performances
Life enrichment is no longer just about activities; it is a way of life. It is creating meaningful programming that enhances the lives of our residents, team members, and families. It encompasses the whole person—socially, intellectually, physically, purposefully, and spiritually.
Purposeful Activity through Life Enrichment
At the Retreat, we understand that life enrichment goes beyond a packed activity calendar. While our calendar is brimming with events and opportunities, we measure success not by quantity but by the purpose and joy each activity brings to our residents.
Many of our residents find fulfillment in both organized programs and self-directed pursuits. One popular program is the Baker’s Corner, where residents gather weekly to create delectable treats. As they measure ingredients, crack eggs, and dust baking pans, they’re doing more than just making an apple crisp – they’re building connections, and contributing to their community’s well-being.
Our thoughtful amenities empower residents to pursue their individual interests and maintain their independence:
- Warm, bright community spaces where residents can hang out independently or with others
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Private dining room for families to enjoy one another’s company
- Outdoor patios and walking paths for plenty of outdoor time
- On-site theater room
- Library
- Full-service restaurant with eat-in and take-out options
- Cozy fireplace and living room to connect with friends or relax with a book
- Country kitchen that residents can use
- Art and creative niches throughout the community
- Full-service salon and spa
The activity and social calendar at The Retreat is not just about staying busy; it’s about creating purposeful days. Our programming focuses on connecting residents to planned activities, as well as exposing them to new possibilities. From volunteering to learning, we focus on creating purposeful methods of engaging our residents.
Rhythms Life Enrichment
As with any community, each resident at The Retreat is entirely unique with their own qualities, personalities, and interests, and this is the foundation of our Rhythms Life Enrichment Services philosophy, and it’s based on the five cornerstones of healthy aging: social, intellectual, physical, purposeful, and spiritual.
Our signature programs are designed to help promote healthy aging:
Social—building community through shared experiences and values that foster authentic relationships.
Intellectual—supporting brain health with meaningful ways to keep the mind active and lifelong learning.
Physical—encouraging healthy habits, independence, and inclusive fitness to sustain and improve function.
Purposeful—residents participate in making decisions; feeling valued, and sharing their gifts.
Spiritual—nurturing the spirit, soul, and emotional well-being by connecting to their values, and beliefs.
Some of these signature programs include:
- Welcoming Committee—It’s never easy to settle into a new community, which is why our Welcoming Committee exists. Management provides new residents with information about the programs, activities, and routines of the community. In addition, a welcome sign on their door helps make them feel at home.
- Movement 4 Life—Keeping residents physically active and helping to reduce the risk of falls is essential. The Movement 4 Life was designed to improve the physical and mental health of all residents with an expert-designed exercise program.
- Music and Memories Program®—The program brings together residents and staff who volunteer their time to lead classes, coordinate special holidays, and make crafts for the community. These activities are social and fun while at the same time providing a sense of purpose and meaning to life.
- Rhythm’s Dementia—The innovative Rhythms philosophy and approach to memory care strives to educate and offer support to residents, families, and communities who are living with dementia.
The Retreat at Sunny Vista residents also can join groups such as the Gardening Group. The groups grow herbs that are used for on-site cooking classes and maintain a garden on the community’s south patio
Residents at the Retreat take steps (sometimes literally) daily. Once you trade the work, expense, and solitude of homeownership for a growing circle of friends, an active lifestyle, and a variety of programs and events, the possibilities are endless. Contact our team today to learn more or schedule a tour.