Resident of the Month - Dave Curry

Meet Dave Curry, Traditions' March Resident of the Month!

Dave was born and raised in scenic Logan, West Virginia. Located in the Appalachian Mountains, Logan County is home to the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud. At the age of 18, Dave left Logan to attend college in the neighboring state of Kentucky. 

Moving to Traditions at Camargo

Dave, who has called Traditions at Camargo home for a little over a year, found his new home upon the recommendation of a friend who loved the vibrant downtown Madeira location. Before retiring and moving to Traditions at Camargo, Dave was an insurance agent in Naples, Florida, for 30 years.

Dave's Family & Hobbies

"I was married and divorced three times and had no children," said Dave. "I was very close to my mother. Unfortunately, all my family has passed away."

Dave made the most out of the Sunshine State, playing many different sports.

"I played softball, basketball, and soccer, but football was my favorite. Tennis and golf are hidden talents of mine. Oh, and I'm very lucky at the casino," chuckled Dave. These days, I enjoy playing Bridge and walking when the weather is nice. Camargo has a lovely outdoor patio, and I enjoy sitting outside in the sun in the summer." 

Living Life to the Fullest at Traditions

Dave said some of his favorite things about Camargo are outings to local restaurants, when Camargo's chef serves surf and turf, and shopping at Kroger. But what he looks forward to most of all is the last Wednesday of the month, when the residents go to the casino.

Dave says, "I am just a happy-go-lucky man enjoying my golden years."

Being Nominated for Resident of the Month

Stephanie Stoll, Camargo Community Relations Director, agreed, "We nominated Dave for Traditions' Resident of the Month because his friendly demeanor and genuine warmth make him a joy to be around. He consistently makes an effort to say hello to everyone. He acknowledges each person he encounters, which spreads a ripple of positivity throughout our community. This simple act of kindness fosters a sense of belonging and togetherness among residents and staff!"

An elderly man standing in front of a fireplace with his hands behind his back while smiling

Employee of the Month Geralyn Turner

Meet Geralyn "Geri" Turner, Traditions' Featured Employee of the Month! Geralyn was born and raised in beautiful Saginaw, Michigan.

Life Outside of Traditions of Saginaw

Family is an integral part of Geri's life. She and her husband have four adult children, three grandchildren, and one more on the way.

"When I'm not caring for our residents, I spend my time going to church, watching movies, and spending time with my precious family. I enjoy baking cookies, cakes, and brownies for those I love."

Geri's Dedication to Our Residents

"Geri has been with us for almost five years," said June Nadolny, Traditions of Saginaw Executive Director. "Her service for our residents is above and beyond. I wish we could clone her compassion and caring towards our residents."

Geri's passion for caring for seniors is evident when asked what she loves about her job.

Assisting Through the Transition of Senior Living

"I understand that transitioning from your home into a senior living community is not easy. I try to make our residents' day brighter and tell them I'm here for them. In all honesty, the residents brighten MY day!"

"One of the most rewarding experiences I've had while caring for residents at our Main Campus was providing emotional support to a daughter whose mother had dementia with agitation. The daughter would send me thank you cards, which meant the world to me."

Nursing is More Than A Job, It's Geri's Passion

"A community nurse is busy ensuring care plans are updated, medications followed, etc. Geri doesn't allow that to stop her regarding our residents' needs. She helps with the smallest details, embodying Traditions' Core Value of Important vs. Necessary. She serves our residents endlessly and shows them the utmost Dignity," said June. 

We nominated Geri because this isn't just a position or a job to her; she treats every resident as she would her family member. We are proud that Geri is a part of our Traditions of Saginaw - Main Campus team! 

"I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the residents at Traditions. I love every part of my job here," said Geri.

A female nurse with her hair tied back in a ponytail wearing dark blue scrubs

Employee of the Month Aaron Merkley

Meet Aaron Merkley, Traditions' Featured Employee of the Month! Aaron was born in sunny Jacksonville, Florida, but raised in the quaint city of Saginaw, Michigan.

Aaron's Career & Family Life

Aaron has been cooking for the Traditions of Saginaw's West Campus residents for three years.

"When I'm not working, I love spending time with my beautiful and talented wife, Lexi, and my three amazing children. We have two girls and a boy – we love hanging out as a family, playing video games, and watching movies. I've also recently gotten into painting. And a little-known fact is that I can juggle – well, only slightly."

A Family Environment

When we asked Aaron what he loves about his job, he said, "It simply feels like home. I walk into the kitchen, and it doesn't feel like a job, but rather like I'm hanging out with my friends or family and getting paid for it."

"You asked me to share a memorable experience, but to name one is too difficult. Every day with our residents is memorable and a great experience. However, I hold the memory of Ms. Mickey dear. We used to chat every morning. She moved to be closer to her family. I still miss her."

Being Nominated for Employee of the Month

June Nadolny, Traditions of Saginaw's Executive Director, said, "Aaron was nominated because he exemplifies Traditions' Core Values of Socialization and Service. He arrives ready to work with a positive attitude and provides great service to our residents. His fun and playful nature brings joy to our residents' day. We are proud that Aaron is part of our Traditions of Saginaw-West Campus team!"

Traditions of Saginaw is More Than a Workplace

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the recognition," said Aaron with a big smile. "I appreciate the Traditions of Saginaw team and love that work feels like home and not just a job!"

A male chef wearing a black hat and a blue apron with a gold name plate

Pets & Their Impact on Seniors

Guest Blogger: Jocelyn Strassel, MS, CVT, CDBC ~ Clinical Behaviorist MSPCA-Angell Animal Medical Center

The Benefits of Owning a Pet

According to American Humane, half of adults over the age of 50 have at least one pet! This is heartwarming news because studies have shown pets improve seniors’ overall well-being. Physical health has been shown to improve, specifically the lowering of both blood pressure and cholesterol. Plus, pets tend to encourage more exercise and walking in nature – both have been proven to improve our cognitive functioning. It does not stop with physical fitness either; our furry roommates also improve our mental health with studies showing a decrease in depression and their ability to spark socialization. 

Things to Consider Before Adopting a Pet

Before considering the adoption of a pet, there are a few factors to consider:

Choosing the Right Animal:

Cats & Small Dogs

Next, consider what type of animal would fit into your world! Cats can be comparatively smaller in size and can live indoors exclusively. Smaller dogs are also a good fit; owners can pick them up if needed, and there tends to be a lower risk of injury. Those lovable fur babies can jump or pull sharply on a leash when excited accidentally hurting their beloved owner. SQUIRREL!

Large Dogs

If you have a ‘tradition’ of larger dogs in your family, consider adopting an adult (2.5 years or older) or a senior dog from your local shelter. While those puppy-dog eyes may melt your heart, puppies require a lot of time and energy to properly train and socialize. An adult dog has typically ‘settled into’ their personality. This gives you a more definitive idea of their quirks than if you adopt a puppy or adolescent dog whose personality and behavior may still be ‘flowering.’

Senior Animals

Working for the Massachusetts SPCA, I would be remiss if I did not encourage the adoption of senior animals near you! Here are a few tips:

Fish & Other Types of Small Animals

While I have shared different insights into finding the right cat or dog, small mammals such as hamsters can also be a great choice and typically require much less work. A fish tank is a great option for those who want a low-maintenance companion.  

Traditions Management Is a Pet-Friendly Environment

We appreciate Jocelyn taking the time to share her insights! All our buildings are pet-friendly and we love to have pets visit them. In fact, some of our staff's woofers are regular visitors. New residents should check in with the Executive Director for all types of pets.

Get In Touch With Traditions Management

It is our mission to maximize the quality of life for each member of the Traditions community through genuine and uncompromising care and service. Find the nearest Traditions Management community to you and contact them to discuss the best service plan for you or a loved one.

Resident of the Month - Aileen

Meet Aileen, Traditions' February Resident of the Month!

Aileen, the youngest of seven children, was born in Bargerville, a small town 30 miles south of Indianapolis. At seven years of age, she moved with her family to Indianapolis after her father relocated for work. 

Moving to Traditions at Brookside

Aileen has called Traditions at Brookside home for over five years, first living in a cottage and more recently in Assisted Living. Having lived in Greenfield and Fishers, Aileen and her daughter saw the community during construction. When she decided to move into senior living, Traditions at Brookside was her first choice!

Aileen's Family

Aileen was married to her "wonderful" husband, Barney, for many years. They both retired from Eli Lilly in Greenfield, Indiana, where they shared a home.

"Together we have six adult children, eleven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, with another one on the way,” said Aileen.

Living Life to the Fullest at Traditions

When she wasn't busy with work or spending time with her young family, she enjoyed (and still does on a smaller scale at Traditions) gardening.

"Gardening is my hidden talent! I also enjoy cooking,” she stated.

Aileen enjoys the wraps that Traditions at Brookside's culinary team makes: "They also make a mean omelet!"

Bingo and Rummikub are some of Aileen's favorite activities in the community.

"There's an ugly rumor going around that I'm getting old," laughed Aileen.

She combats that rumor by attending her beloved exercise classes and participating in Traditions at Brookside's Walking Club.

Being Nominated for Resident of the Month

"Aileen was nominated for Traditions' Resident of the Month by multiple managers," said Kara Cope, Community Relations Director. "She has lived at Traditions at Brookside since we opened. She is active, positive, sweet, and filled with complete joy. Aileen makes our community a better place; we are so grateful to have her. She serves as our New Resident Ambassador, welcoming new residents and making them feel at home. In the spring and summer, when you come and visit, you will see our beautiful garden. Aileen is integral in its beauty!"

February’s Featured Resident Recipe - Stan Greenlee - Park Place Senior Living

As part of Our Commitment to create new traditions, learn new things, break down walls that isolate our residents and build a stronger community, we are sharing a Resident Recipe monthly which will be demonstrated by our talented Yona culinary teams.

This month, we have the pleasure of introducing Stan Greenlee from Park Place Senior Living in Fort Wayne, Indiana. 

Stan, who is 92 years old, was born in Frontier County, Nebraska, where he lived until moving to California in 1969. He was married to his beautiful wife, Lucille, who recently passed away, for 69 years. They have two adult children, Kevin and Cindy. 

Prior to retirement, Stan worked for the Bureau of Reclamation, focusing on flood control in the developing western United States by working on dams and irrigation systems to assist farmers. 

“I’ve been helping to feed America for almost 110 years,” exclaimed Stan!

Stan wanted to share his Reuben recipe because, “It is a unique sandwich, unlike any other. Before I moved to Park Place Senior Living, I used to go get a Reuben at least once a week!”

REUBEN SANDWICH RECIPE

Ingredients

Note: You can purchase all 6 ingredients from this recipe for approximately $15.45

Directions

Preheat a large griddle or skillet over medium heat. Spread one side of bread slices evenly with Thousand Island dressing. On four bread slices, layer one slice Swiss cheese, 2 slices corned beef, 1/4 cup sauerkraut, and a second slice of Swiss cheese. Top with remaining bread slices, dressing side down. Butter the top of each sandwich.

Place sandwiches, butter-side down on the preheated griddle; butter the top of each sandwich with the remaining butter. Grill until both sides are golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Serve hot.

Moving a Loved One To Memory Care: How to Address and Ease This Transition 

Wendy Briggs, Director of Cognitive Services

A question we often hear from adult children and their families as they struggle with the concept of moving a beloved senior into memory care is, “What do we tell grandma/grandpa/mom/dad about why we can’t take them back home?” 

It’s a delicate topic that many families face as their parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts/uncles, and family friends age. It is estimated that 70% of people over the age of 65 will require some sort of long-term care during the rest of their lifetime. On average, those seniors will require care for 3 years. Many of those will require long-term services and support due to a cognitive impairment such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

For many seniors and their families, this is a growing concern. Seniors fear losing their independence and their families face the challenge of ensuring their loved ones have the best possible care. These discussions can be difficult and stressful. In our experience with working with individuals and their families, we’ve found that transfer trauma or adjustment trauma is REAL. However, there is HOPE for easing the distress for all. Wendy Briggs, Traditions Management’s new Director of Cognitive Services, has some best practices for addressing and easing this potentially traumatic period of transition.   `

Start Having These Conversations Early and Often 

We give This advice for nearly every senior living topic because it’s important and true! These are incredibly important conversations to have, and you want to have them as early as possible so that everyone can be involved in the decision-making process and to ensure you are not making these critical family decisions under the pressure and duress of an emergency. Having family discussions around safe and engaging living options as care and safety needs change early and often helps reduce stress when a need to change arises. If you understand your loved one’s wishes, it makes a transition from, say, assisted living into memory care easier and less traumatic. Discuss and understand your loved ones living preferences. Do they prefer an urban or rural setting, for example? Do they want to stay close to the community they are currently living in, or do they prefer to be closer to family, friends, and loved ones? What community offerings, activities, and amenities are important to them and will make their transition easier?

Keep Your Loved One Involved in the Decision-Making Process 

No one wants to lose their sense of independence. While it is important to have these conversations early and often, it is equally important to keep your loved one involved every step of the way. Including them in the process gives them autonomy over their decision. This will make the transition much smoother for everyone. Ask lots of questions. Tour communities together. Carefully read brochures and explore websites together. Take lots of notes and refer back to them. These are not decisions to be made in a vacuum. 

Get Involved and Get to Know Your Senior Living Community

Encourage volunteering with loved ones within supportive communities to familiarize them with the “happenings” of the community. This builds trusting relationships prior to needing placement. Your loved one is going to feel more comfortable and experience less stress if they are familiar and involved with their chosen community. Families should get involved as well. Get to know the caregivers. Familiarize yourself with the community's activity calendar. Seek out ways to volunteer and be involved with the community. After all, you want to continue to build traditions with your loved one. 

Make Sure Their Living Arrangements are Comfortable and Familiar 

An important key to easing seniors into a new care scenario, such as memory care, is keeping their surroundings comfortable and familiar. Collaborate with the community to arrange the apartment or room to be as familiar as possible. Having a familiar space can ease stress and reduce trauma on your loved one as they transition and ease into memory care. 

Visit and Support Your Loved One After the Transition 

Create a family or friend calendar of on-site support as needed in the early weeks after they move into memory care. Our communities are made to support multigenerational traditions. Visiting your loved one regularly, staying up-to-date with their care plan, and offering them love and support go a long way in creating a safe, reassuring space for them to thrive. 

Communication, participation, and support are huge factors in your loved ones continued success in long-term care. Having open, honest conversations as early as possible, including everyone in making important decisions, and supporting a familiar environment for them to thrive will help address and ease your loved one’s transition into memory care. 

Resident of the Month Carol Bouchard

Meet Carol Bouchard, Traditions’ January Resident of the Month! 

Carol was born and raised in the beautiful city of Alpena, which is located in Northern Michigan along the coast of Lake Huron. She has called Traditions of Beavercreek home for three and a half years.

“My son and I liked the grounds of Beavercreek and the wetlands that surround the campus. I did not want to look out my window and see a parking lot or freeway,” said Carol.

Carol lights up when talking about her beloved late husband, Philippe.

“Philippe was a jet pilot in the Air Force and served in Vietnam. He also taught at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He climbed the ranks to become a Brigadier General; he was a great guy and a great leader. We were always on the same page and perfect life partners.”

Carol and Philippe have four children, three sons and a daughter.

“I also have five grandchildren,” continued Carol, “But only one is local. I have no great grands yet, darn it!”

Before retiring, Carol was an RN. She trained under The Sisters of Mercy in Detroit; however, when she got married and had her four children, she put her career as a nurse on hold to raise her children.

“Heck, I had my own pediatric ward at home,” she laughed.

When asked if she has any hidden talents, Carol laughed again and said with a wry smile, “No part of me is hidden; what you see is what you get! I like people!”

Carol enjoys researching interdenominational devotions for church on Sunday in Beavercreek’s chapel. She also enjoys the community’s Forget Me Nots and their group crossword puzzles.

Being very social, Carol enjoys breakfast at Beavercreek, saying, “It is not so much the actual meal or food. I find that breakfast is less crowded, and I can go around table-to-table and check in with the other residents. I use this time as a meet and greet. We are all family… all of us… even the staff – they seem to spend more time with us than they do with their families!”

Carol embodies Traditions Management’s core values (Important vs. Necessary, Dignity, Service, Socialization, and Choices) in many ways. 

“As a retired nurse, I took an oath to help people. I will always advocate for other residents if they need something or are uncomfortable asking for themselves. I will always stand up for others. I enjoy it here at Traditions of Beavercreek!”

“We nominated Carol for Traditions’ Resident of the Month because of her unwavering compassion and kindness towards her fellow residents, or as Carol calls them, ‘my family’,” said Julie Lesley, Beavercreek’s Community Relations Director.

“I agree with Julie wholeheartedly,” added Charles Quinn, Beavercreek’s Executive Director and Area Vice President of Operations for Cincinnati. “Carol continues to amaze with her servant’s heart and empathy toward residents and staff alike.”

Employee of the Month Cara Bennett

Meet Cara Bennett, Traditions' Employee of the Month!

Originally from Wellington, Florida, Cara came to Indiana three years ago to be closer to her husband's family. For the past four months, she's been making a tremendous impact as an Activity Assistant at Traditions at Solana.

Family holds a special place in Cara's heart. As a newlywed since September 2022, she understands the importance of meaningful connections at work and home.

Beyond her role, Cara is a crafting virtuoso in her free time, especially with a Cricut machine. Crafting isn't just a hobby; it's a form of expression she joyfully shares with residents.

Cara is skilled in organizing creative activities and fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), adding an extra layer of connection with residents.

"Cara understands what is important to the residents, stated Thomas Tuner, Associate Executive Director for Traditions at Solana, "She interacts with them daily to learn about their likes and dislikes and tries to implement different activities to satisfy them. While observing their interactions, you will find that she always has an ear open to see if there is anything new that we can do to make the residents happier."

"My favorite part of the workday is hosting Morning Chat & Trivia with our residents. It brings a smile to my face to start their day with positive conversation," said Cara, "I also love taking the residents on outings. The most memorable outing was seeing White Christmas at Beef & Boards; it was truly magical! I am so thankful to be a part of Traditions!"

Thomas Turner stated that Solana's management team nominated Cara Bennett as Traditions' Employee of the Month because even though Traditions' Core Value of Socialization is a natural part of the Activity Assistant role, she always takes it a step further, never rushing residents to get back on track when Morning Trivia digresses… instead, she will steer the conversation for all to participate. Cara also embodies our Core Value of Choices, ensuring that each resident has a choice in their activities. Finally, Cara understands that we are in the business of caring for and serving our residents. She tries to predict the needs of Solana's residents and provide them with the level of customer service they deserve.

Join us in celebrating Cara Bennett, a beacon of positivity and compassion at Traditions at Solana!

Introducing Wendy Briggs Traditions Management’s new Director of Cognitive Services!

Traditions Management is incredibly excited to introduce Traditions Management’s new Director of Cognitive Services, Wendy Briggs! 

Wendy's Experience in Memory Care

Wendy is a passionate educator with over 20 years of experience with the aging population and memory care services. She brings a wealth of experience in clinical psychosocial assessments, care plan development, and clinical documentation to the Traditions team. 

“I look forward to developing collaborative and inspiring relationships with community teams to meet and exceed resident/family and company standards and have fun doing it!” Wendy said. 

Wendy’s certifications include: 

Wendy's Expertise

Wendy is an expert in creating individual interventions for behavioral difficulties in persons with dementia and an accomplished community presenter with media experience on both radio and television. We look forward to potential PR opportunities and getting Wendy in front of the camera! 

Education & Previous Roles

Wendy most recently served as the Hospital Chief Executive Officer at Brightwell Behavioral Health. Wendy earned a Master’s Certificate in Dementia from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix.

Wendy's New Role at Traditions

Wendy is an inspirational leader with strong communication skills who values team collaboration and transparency. In her new role at Traditions Management, she is dedicated to building strong relationships with internal and external partners. 

Life Outside of Traditions

Wendy lives in Eaton Rapids, Michigan with her husband John. She is a mother of six, three boys and three girls, ages 37-20. She enjoys spending weekends with her children and eight grandchildren and supporting her aging parents. Beyond living in the moment with family, Wendy enjoys cycling, swimming, and her favorite place is on a golf course.

Get in Touch With Wendy

Wendy is committed to leading by example in promoting person-centered care and will be an excellent resource in collaborating with staff and families to develop a supportive environment that encourages self-exploration and successful self-expression. Please reach out to her with any questions! 

Please join us in warmly welcoming Wendy to the team!