The Oregon Caregiver FALL/WINTER 2024 www.ohca.com 10 FEATURE » FEATURE, CONT. enjoyment from the implementation of wellness-based activities. “Many [staff members] participate in mindfulness sessions and fitness activities, which have helped create a stronger sense of community among our team. This has led to improved well-being, greater job satisfaction, and a deeper connection with the residents they care for,” she says. Additionally, Hillyer believes that these activities have shaped the overall atmosphere of The Springs at Happy Valley. “I fully and wholeheartedly believe that our staff has benefitted from the connection and purpose that comes with either leading these wellness programs or just being an active part of the community and engaging with residents… Leading activities like Mixed Media Marvels or Paint and Sip sessions allows staff to see residents in a new light beyond their roles as care recipients. It creates a rewarding experience for staff, as they feel they are making a real difference in residents’ lives,” says Hillyer. Within these communities, these activities have helped foster the relationships between residents and their fellow residents, residents and staff, and staff with their colleagues. Hillyer continues, “Although life enrichment programming is geared towards the resident, I feel like it contributes to the overall progression and uplifting of the community around it, too.” Moretti-Aceves attests to this feeling, as well. She says, “We believe that when our staff embraces wellness, it enhances the overall atmosphere of the community, contributing to an environment where everyone thrives.” From exercise to virtual reality, The Watermark at the Pearl has accommodations for all residents to participate in wellnessbased activities. “I fully and wholeheartedly believe that our staff has benefitted from the connection and purpose that comes with either leading these wellness programs or just being an active part of the community and engaging with residents… Leading activities like Mixed Media Marvels or Paint and Sip sessions allows staff to see residents in a new light beyond their roles as care recipients. It creates a rewarding experience for staff, as they feel they are making a real difference in residents’ lives.” – Lilly Hillyer, The Springs at Happy Valley
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