St. John’s Prioritizes Mental Health and Resident Well-Being
St. John’s Vice President of Senior Housing Tony Zaccaglino spoke with the Rochester Business Journal about the importance of mental health resources within older adult living communities. St. John’s Elder Advocate Megan Brown joined Zaccaglino. She shared her thoughts in the same article, “Senior living communities prioritize mental health resources to support resident well-being.”
“When we notice something is a little off with a resident, we address it,” said Brown. She and Zaccaglino spoke about the many resources and programming options for residents. These can “improve residents’ overall well-being.” Some resources include mediation groups, craft classes, and spiritual services. There is also a plethora of speakers who host informational discussions and events.
Physical and Mental Wellness
To promote physical and mental wellness, residents are encouraged to take advantage of the surrounding nature right outside their doors. St. John’s communities are nestled in the middle of Highland Park, with walking trails woven throughout. These trails prompted the formation of a resident-run walking group. The walking group and other resident-run programs are recurring favorites in the monthly calendar.
The published calendar — which includes residents as editors — is a snapshot of the social and spiritual life at St. John’s independent and enhanced assisted living communities. Residents have the opportunity and autonomy to be as active and social as they choose. Although there is something for everyone. Musical events and physical wellness programs are among the most-attended activities on the calendar.
Growing and Innovating
Zaccaglino said that the expansion of the elder advocate team and the addition of a wellness specialist have positively enhanced social life at St. John’s Meadows and Brickstone by St. John’s. He said that the tailored services and social programming have come at a perfect time, with there being a national trend of heightened isolation among older adults.
Brown and Zaccaglino both noted that many residents lend their time to volunteer efforts. Volunteerism has been shown to counter loneliness and boost overall mental health. With about 25% of residents involved in volunteer activities. Volunteerism keeps residents connected to the local community and often brings them a “positive impact on their own mood,” according to Brown.
As the Rochester Business Journal highlighted, St. John’s continues to promote wellness in senior living. Expanded elder advocacy, enriched wellness programming, and resident-directed activities can foster both independence and connection. With these efforts, St. John’s ensures that older adults have the resources they need to thrive.