Wayne Brazil
Aug 2024
There are many great things about the Elder Ashram, but three deserve special recognition. First: the way the programs and activities are structured and the way the building is configured encourage free flow and interaction between quite differently situated residents: those in independent living, those in assisted living, and those in memory care. The residents in memory care are not isolated in a self-contained physical space -- but can move freely (with or without assistance) throughout the sizeable interior of the building and in the large, handsome back garden. And residents at all three levels can and do help and attend to one another -- which is good for everyone -- emotionally and physically. Second: Every semester, 12 interns work with residents and staff to enrich the lives of the residents and to enhance the quality of care of those with physical and mental disabilities. The interns are young adults who are pursuing advanced degrees in relevant fields. They bring fresh energy, curiosity, and their recent education and training into the Ashram, enhancing, uniquely, the quality of life for all residents. Third: The members of the staff at the Ashram who deliver the hands-on, day-to-day service to residents and provide their care are conscientious, kind, careful, and respectful. These positive attributes are shared by the professionals who directly oversee the hands on staff -- the folks in charge of wellness, of organizing and leading walks and outings, and of helping residents and their families and friends navigate their challenging circumstances. The Ashram also is blessed to have an wonderful director of residential engagement, who creatively presents residents every day with a variety of opportunities for learning, achievement and pleasure through crafts, art, music, exercise (primarily in the form of yoga), and special presentations by invited guests (e.g., a recent presentation by a gerontologist about steps residents can take to maximize their health and happiness). It is especially noteworthy that so much art by residents decorates the walls of the Ashram -- adding color and warmth, along with recognition of skills and accomplishments. In sum, there is a lot of good at the Elder Ashram.
