Resident-Centered Living
As Ryan guided us through the different areas of the facility, from the independent living suites to the supportive living and long-term care units, he continually emphasized the importance of putting the needs and preferences of residents first. “Every decision we make is made with the residents’ well-being in mind,” he explained.
One memorable moment that stood out was when Ryan asked us, "What kind of music would you love to listen to in a care home when you're old and grey?" This simple question sparked laughter and lively conversation as we imagined our personal soundtracks — whether soulful jazz, classic rock, or nostalgic pop hits.
This emphasis on individual choice isn’t theoretical — it’s woven into daily life at St. Joseph’s. For example, rather than assuming what residents enjoy, staff regularly involve them in decisions, even down to the music played in common spaces.We saw this firsthand when we visited a common room and found residents dancing joyfully to 1990s hits. Their energy was infectious as they invited us to join them, laughing and moving in time with the music. It was a beautiful reminder of how St. Joseph’s goes beyond basic care to create moments of genuine joy and connection.
Honoring Lives and Legacies
St. Joseph’s is also deeply committed to supporting families and celebrating the lives of those who have passed. A particularly moving feature of St. Joseph’s is the Butterfly Program, which provides families with meaningful ways to honor loved ones who have passed. The acrylic butterfly wall, with its colorful display of butterflies representing lives of former residents, is a striking and emotional centerpiece.
Standing before the wall, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence. Each butterfly told a story, a legacy cherished by families and the staff who cared for them. Although we didn’t see families at the wall during our visit, it was impossible not to imagine the emotions this space must evoke —moments of reflection, gratitude, and quiet remembrance.
Stories of Gratitude
Ryan also shared a story that illustrated the deep impact of the care provided at St. Joseph's. Some time ago, a resident had arrived expecting to stay for several months to recover. However, his experience far exceeded expectations. After just two weeks, he was ready to return home. Moved by the exceptional service he received, the resident and his family made a generous donation to the facility in appreciation.
Stories like this demonstrate how the compassion and dedication of the staff leave a lasting impression. These donations help ensure that St. Joseph’s can continue enhancing its programs and amenities to make a meaningful difference in residents' lives.
At CHAA, we are proud to celebrate Covenant Health’s leadership and the transformative work being done at St. Joseph’s. Their compassion, creativity, and commitment remind us that exceptional care is about more than meeting needs — it’s about creating a place where life is lived fully and joyously.
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