Vibrant Living at Marquis: Insights from Seana Hall, VP of Life Enrichment
At Marquis, we believe in crafting moments that matter. Leading this vision for our New England region is Seana Hall, VP of Life Enrichment, whose innovative programs have reshaped resident engagement throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Here’s a glimpse into her person-centered philosophy.
Creating Joy Through Personalized Engagement
“Every detail counts—whether it’s warm chocolate chip cookies at midnight or dancing to a resident’s favorite song,” Seana emphasizes. Her team is dedicated to embracing each moment to enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
- Signature Programs: Seana has developed a variety of signature events that have become beloved traditions. Annual highlights include the Senior Prom, Master’s Mini Golf Tournament, American Heart Association Walking Competition, and Dancing Competitions. These events foster community spirit and excitement among residents.
- Interest-Based Clubs: By digging deeper into residents’ interests and hobbies, Seana’s team creates personalized activities. Clubs like the Poker Club, Knitting Club, and Armchair Travel Club allow residents to connect with shared passions. “These groups make residents feel like they’re part of something special,” she notes. “They foster friendships and bring joy.”
- Holistic Collaborations: Seana actively collaborates with other departments to enhance resident experiences:
- Clinical Team: Implementing personalized interventions, early bird programs, and fall risk reduction activities to keep residents engaged and safe.
- Therapy Team: Initiatives like Walk to Dine encourage mobility and social interaction during meals. Programs such as Dancing with Seniors prepare residents to dance the night away at events like the Senior Prom.
- Culinary Team: Opening dining rooms for dignified dining experiences and organizing themed food events that residents and their families can enjoy together.
- Plant Operations Team: Enhancing the home-like environment by updating and improving facility spaces based on resident needs.
Adapting Through Change: Innovative Solutions and Family Engagement
The past few years have challenged traditional approaches to resident engagement, but Seana and her team have transformed life enrichment programming to meet these challenges head-on.
- Creative Solutions: “We continually find new ways to keep our residents engaged, no matter the circumstances,” Seana shares. This includes adapting programs to ensure safety while maintaining high levels of participation and enjoyment.
- Family Involvement: Recognizing the vital role families play, Seana emphasizes, “We love family involvement!”
Strategies to enhance this include:
- Encouraging Participation: Inviting families to join their loved ones during programs, which helps residents socialize and try new activities.
- Open Communication: Educating families about the importance of activities in promoting independence and quality of life. “When families see their loved ones happy and engaged, it gives them peace of mind,” Seana says.
- Supporting Resident Interests: Families are encouraged to discuss activities with residents, further motivating them to participate.
- Community Partnerships: Seana’s commitment to developing community partnerships enriches programs through intergenerational activities and local collaborations, strengthening the bonds between residents and the wider community.
Transformative Outcomes and Looking Ahead
Seana’s innovative approach has led to remarkable outcomes:
- Enhanced Resident Satisfaction: Residents feel more connected and purposeful, leading to increased overall happiness and well-being.
- Stronger Family Relationships: Families feel reassured and content knowing their loved ones are active and well-cared for.
- Dynamic Community Atmosphere: The centers buzz with energy, fostering an environment where residents thrive.
“Our goal is to create communities where everyone feels seen, valued, and inspired,” Seana affirms. By continuously adapting programs and encouraging family involvement, she ensures life enrichment at Marquis remains vibrant and responsive to the evolving needs of residents.
- Vision for the Future: Charting a Bold Path for Senior Care
“As the senior care landscape evolves, so do the needs of our residents,” says Seana Hall. “The days of ‘little old nana and papa’s’ are behind us, today’s residents are younger, more diverse, and seeking dynamic experiences that reflect their lifestyles. Our challenge? To stay adaptable while holding true to our roots of personalized, purposeful care.”
Embracing Change with Innovation
- Redefining Programming: With a growing population of younger residents and varying cognitive abilities, Seana’s team tailor’s activities to meet modern preferences. Think tech workshops, fitness challenges, and creative arts—all while maintaining a person-centered approach.
“We’re blending tradition with innovation, ensuring every program resonates with this generation of residents,” she notes.
- Staff Development: Continuous learning is non-negotiable. All Life Enrichment Directors are now Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDPs), and Seana promotes ongoing training through seminars, workshops, and peer collaboration.
“Empowering our team with knowledge ensures they’re equipped to adapt programming and engage residents at every level.”
- Technology Integration: From virtual reality “travel” experiences to digital art classes, Seana sees technology as a tool to enhance—not replace—human connection. Plans include apps for personalized activity recommendations and hybrid events to connect residents with distant families.
Building Bridges Beyond Our Walls
- Intergenerational Programs: A cornerstone of Seana’s vision, these initiatives connect residents with local schools, young professionals, and families through storytelling sessions, mentorship programs, and collaborative art projects. “These interactions reignite purpose and joy—for both residents and the community.”
- Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local businesses, cultural organizations, and wellness advocates will expand access to unique experiences, from pop-up chef demonstrations to adaptive yoga classes.
Measuring Success, Prioritizing Heart
While metrics like participation rates and satisfaction surveys guide improvement, Seana emphasizes intangible wins:
“A resident who rediscovers a passion, a family member who tears up seeing their loved one thrive—that’s how we measure success. Our future is about balance: embracing new tools while nurturing the irreplaceable human touch.”
At Marquis, leaders like Seana are making a difference every day, shaping engaging and joyful experiences for our residents.
Stay tuned for more Women of Influence spotlights and insights into how our team brings our mission to life.
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