LivWell Across America with Springpoint: Meadow Lakes
Meadow Lakes residents continue prepping for Active Aging Week (October 3-9) by taking part in Springpoint’s LivWell “Across America” program. To get the community involved and active, staff and residents are having fun and trying new things while traveling across the United States–virtually. We’ve stopped at several unique spots throughout the country already–where to next?
New Jersey –to mimic the beloved Jersey Shore boardwalk, residents played traditional games (ring toss, basketball, the big spin wheel, etc.) while listening to classic Beach Boys tunes around the outdoor pool area. Tickets were earned and redeemed for festive prizes.
Maine–to pay homage to the state’s large French-Canadian population, a “Croquet, Croissants, and Café Au Lait” mixer was held. Residents wore berets and gathered at the croquet court for a French-themed rendezvous. An exciting soccer shoot-out was held on the lawn–players also tested their balance during dribble drills. Then during aqua aerobics, residents were quizzed on French words/phrases used in everyday English language (for example, “After you eat in the café, stop to see the concierge before going to the port cochere!”).
Wisconsin–since there is a large Austrian American population, residents took park in a “Pump You Up” weightlifting workout inspired by seven-time Olympian Arnold Schwarzenegger (of Austrian descent). The payoff – a cheese tasting complete with wine!
Hawaii–residents “took flight” to the outdoor pool deck to party luau-style! Hula dancers engaged the crowd while pulled pork sandwiches were served on Hawaiian rolls. Treats also included Hawaiian meatballs, coleslaw, fruit kabobs, and Mai Tai cocktails (yum).
Texas (upcoming)– residents will take part in a good old-fashioned “hoedown” complete with the Texas two-step and traditional line dancing. Cowboy hats/boots, dungarees, flannels, and bandanas are highly encouraged. A Tex-Mex menu will be offered in the dining room – inspired by the large Mexican popular, a “fiesta time” will also be designated with refreshments, more dancing, and a mariachi band.
California (upcoming)–Koreatown boasts a large Korean American population, and karaoke is very popular within this community. Residents will have the opportunity to show-off their singing skills during a karaoke party, followed by Korean BBQ in the dining room.
Oregon (upcoming)–residents will learn more about Springpoint’s progressive DEI initiatives in honor of this state’s large LGBTQI+ community. Rainbow flags will be shared and displayed. Travels will finally wrap-up with a relaxing tasting from the Willamette Valley wine country.
According to Meadow Lake’s LivWell Fitness and Aquatics Manager Cleo Nicolas, “It is important to promote and engage several aspects of wellness because a healthy body keeps you well and active. A healthy mind keeps you focused and engaged. A healthy soul keeps you fulfilled and content. [The LivWell program] is a great way of making a positive impact on our residents’ lives. It truly keeps them engaged on a daily basis. The only complaint I ever hear is there are too many wonderful programs to choose from!”
It takes a lot of thought and dedication from the Meadow Lakes team to keep these activities fresh and consistent, but Nicolas finds it rewarding when she hears comments like “I’ve always wanted to try soccer and I am so glad I did it” or “It is ridiculous how much fun that was!”
Programming is promoted through Meadow Lake’s weekly calendar, TouchTown screens, flyers, posters, bulletin boards, word of mouth, and Nicolas’ exercise classes. Residents are not required to sign-up or attend, but Nicolas says that events are always well received and she usually gets compliments for days (even weeks) following some of the more popular activities.
More about Springpoint’s LivWell program
Springpoint’s award-winning senior wellness program—LivWell—goes far beyond conventional senior living activities. LivWell focuses on whole-person wellness, catering to each of seven dimensions of wellness with a deep understanding of our physical, intellectual, emotional, social, environmental, spiritual, and vocational needs. For more information, please visit the LivWell website.
