Don’t Worry – You Can Be Happy
Written by Tim Reinemann, Quality of Life Supervisor
Engaging in some type of recreational or physical activity continues to be important for all adults as they grow older. Our life feels more meaningful and purposeful if we are happy and fulfilled. So what type of activities are held on the Felician Village campus to accomplish this important goal?
We definitely want to help keep our seniors mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally fit. That’s why our Quality of Life department’s purpose is to prepare a monthly calendar of events, and then lead those events, that will be of interest to a wide variety of people. Every activity is not for every person but with the variety of things we offer, there’s sure to be something of interest to everyone.
Participating in these activities gives people a sense of belonging and connectedness with their peers. It gives them something to do together, to perhaps share a laugh or a struggle together.
At Felician Village we tailor our activities to the ability levels of the people living in each area. For example, at The Gardens (independent living), we take day trips off campus, go to restaurants or the Capital Civic Centre for shows. At Easter we had an Easter egg hunt where residents had to search for eggs hidden throughout the building.
In The Court and Villa (assisted living) and the St. Mary’s (nursing home), we hold activities in each household. Examples include crafts, a variety of card and dice games, ice cream socials, musical entertainment from outside groups or sing-alongs. Exercise groups are held in each area; again, based on the level of physical activity the residents can safely perform.
Across all parts of the campus we also focus on spiritual health. This could be a Catholic Mass, a Lutheran or protestant service, music and reflections or an ecumenical prayer service.
Each meal served in the dining room is a social experience and an important part of each resident’s day. We encourage residents to come to the dining room and share meals with the others who live in their household.
Felician Village continually strives to offer many opportunities for residents to stay socially active. Most residents acknowledge they have a lot more social interaction than their friends living at home alone.
After living here for a few months, I’ve had new residents say, “I wish I would have moved here sooner. There’s so much to do and I’ve already made new friends. I didn’t realize how lonely I was sitting in my house day after day waiting for my family to visit.”
To see the specific things we do each day, click here to see the activities page on our website.