Atria Park

64 wonderful years and counting! 👰♀️🤵♂️ Jan and Ken grew up across the street from each other and tied the knot in 1960 at their church. "It was very informal. We got married in the evening surrounded by our families," Ken shares. The couple moved to Atria Park of Vintage Hills to be closer to family. "We see them at least once a week and attend church together every Sunday," Jan adds. Congratulations, Jan and Ken! 🎉

Eileen came to Atria Park of Pacific Palisades for a short-term stay to recuperate from an injury, but after fully recovering, she didn't want to leave. "It's fun, and they keep me busy here," she shares. "From the staff to the residents and even the families who visit, I am always encouraged to come to the activities." Eileen even felt inspired to relearn how to play piano. "I enjoy playing for fellow residents. I feel great, full of energy, and I don't feel my age."

"My favorite dance style is the Viennese Waltz, because it captures the essence of romance and elegance," reminisces Joan. "I danced professionally for 18 years, but my career was nursing." "My favorite part of being a nurse was being able to travel to different countries, where I gained more nursing skills," she shares. "I started studying nursing in the UK, and I was given the opportunity to continue my nursing studies in Canada until I moved to the US, where I was given the opportunity to continue to care for others and contribute to their well-being." Now a resident of Atria Park of Vintage Hills, she continues to care for and connect with others. "Living with my newfound friends in our community is wonderful. It creates a sense of belonging and support, knowing that there are familiar faces and kindred spirits nearby. Engaging in activities together strengthens our bonds. It feels like being part of a close-knit family where every day is filled with opportunities to connect and share experiences." We're so glad to have Joan as a part of our family!

Confirmed alien sighting! 👽 Del had a blast visiting the UFO Experience with fellow residents from Atria Park of Sierra Pointe. "I enjoyed learning about the history of UFO sightings," she shares. "But my favorite part was shooting aliens in a virtual shooting range game." "It feels great to live in a community with fun opportunities," she adds. It’s moments like these that make our programming truly out of this world! 🛸✨

"It felt wonderful to share my recipe and the stories associated with it with my fellow residents," shares Shirley. "It was a great way to connect with everyone, reminisce about the old memories and bond over our shared love of cooking." Residents of Atria Park of Vintage Hills pulled out their favorite cookbooks and recipe cards for a program about food and personal history. Shirley shared her grandmother's butterscotch pie recipe and in turn, she learned about some of her friends' favorite recipes like Greek dolmades. "Programs like this are my favorite part of living in the community," Shirley adds. "There's always something to look forward to. Whether it's participating in group activities, celebrating milestones together, or simply engaging in everyday conversations, these moments become cherished memories." We'd like copies of those recipes, please!

"It was incredible to learn about all the things Denver the dog is capable of doing. It was great to see him in action," shares Ruth, a resident of Atria Park of Ann Arbor. "He knows so many commands that support Colin through his days." Residents learned about service dogs from Colin and Paws With A Cause ®. Learning about how people with disabilities use accessibility tools, like service dogs, is just one of many educational programs hosted in the community. While some residents were unfamiliar with service dogs' abilities, Ruth has experience supporting people with accessibility needs. "I worked for the State of Michigan as a social worker and had many clients with service dogs to help them. However, what was unique about this program were the details Colin provided about the training the service dogs undergo before being assigned to their owners. They go through a lot of training to receive that title!" Ruth adds, "I like to continue my education, so I enjoy coming to these types of programs. I think it's good to learn new things!" Thanks, Colin and Denver! 🐾

"Dear friend, My name is Nick. What is your name?" begins a letter from a local first-grader. This is just one of many letters exchanged between students from a local elementary school and the residents of Atria Park of Ann Arbor. "I like my pen pal's questions. He is so insightful for a six-year-old," shares Shirley, one of the residents. "One of the highlights of my week is receiving his letters. This cross-generational program builds community relationships and enriches the lives of everyone involved. "I think this is a wonderful learning opportunity for the children, because it helps them to realize that older people can still have fun," Shirley adds. After months of exchanging letters, residents and students met via Zoom for an end-of-the-school-year celebration. The residents wished the class the best of luck in second-grade.

Puppies! Do we need to say more? Atria Park of Vintage Hills threw a "pawty" for National Puppy Day, inviting resident pets, therapy dogs and other friendly doggos to enjoy treats, belly rubs and lots of ear scratches. It looks like a barkin' good time! 🐶

It's National Best Friends Day! When Betty met Mo at Atria Park of Glen Ellyn, they instantly clicked! Since then, these best friends can be found at community programs and laughing together. "What a blessing the friendship is that developed between Mo and Betty. To find a new best friend at 86 is something we all hope to have at that age!" shares Lisa, Mo's daughter-in-law. "Mo tells me she loves Atria on a daily basis," Lisa adds. #NationalBestFriendsDay

"Embracing the wisdom and grace that come with age has opened my heart to a new perspective, inspiring me to celebrate life in all its stages," shares Atria Park of Vintage Hills resident and poet, Catherine. "Discovering the beauty in aging has been a profound inspiration for my poetry." As stylish as she is clever, Catherine's writing is infused with humor and honesty that transcends age and speaks to the truth of being human. "Instead of viewing getting older as a burden, I've found joy in every moment and experience," she says. Aging gracefully can mean many things to many people, but Catherine shares that she focuses on prioritizing staying active, nurturing relationships, cultivating interests, adapting to change, seeking purpose, and practicing self-compassion. "You can age gracefully and live a fulfilling life at any stage," she added.