The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Seniors spread love with acts of kindness
Senior citizens passed out carnations and Valentines cards at Great Lakes Mall.
Shoppers and employees at Great Lakes Mall in Mentor were in for a pleasant surprise on Feb. 12.
A handful of residents from Atria Newell Creek, a senior living community, accompanied by staff, greeted them with white, pink and red carnations and cards containing kind messages for Valentine’s Day.
A couple of Mentor students, who are part of a work program, also assisted the seniors in this Valentine’s Day Giveaway event.
“We just want to give back to our community, so a lot of our events are geared towards civic engagement,” said Tiffany Bazan, engage life director at Atria Newell Creek. “So, this was a great way to get out into the community, give something back and spread the love for Valentine’s Day. They really enjoy it. If it brightens someone else’s day, I know it brighten theirs.”
Many of the residents in attendance were a part of the Life Guidance Memory Care, a unit for seniors facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, she said.
The goal of Life Guidance Memory Care is to focus on residents’ individual strengths and find ways to help them continue to live a fulfilling life. Life Guidance Program Specialist Cynthia Becker said it was very rewarding for the residents and staff to see smiles on people’s faces after giving them a flower and card.
Andriana Bartok said she was happy she volunteered.
The 89-year-old said she was always active in church and the Parent Teacher Association and participated in many community events over the years.
“I like it a lot,” she said. “It feels good to give back.”
Betty Churney, 88, said she enjoyed making others happy with simple acts of kindness.
“We believe in the extraordinary potential of older adults,” according to Atria Senior Living website. “That’s why we create vibrant communities where they can thrive and participate, know that their contributions are valued, and enjoy access to opportunities and support that help them keep making a positive difference in our world.”
Bazan said 2018 will be a busy year as they have many exciting upcoming community events.