Unleashing Joy: The Inspiring Journey of a Nursing Home Activities Director Transforming Lives

Residents at a skilled nursing establishment in south Texas embrace the motto “Celebrate good times!” thanks to a vibrant activities director who consistently curates special high-energy celebrations.

“Each month,” remarks Velman Cruz, activities director at Mission Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. “We hosted a New Year’s party, our Super Bowl gathering is on the horizon … we’ve lined up several events in February, including Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras. And believe me, Mardi Gras is a major event!”

Cruz guarantees that the list of activities is continually expanding and incorporates suggestions from the more than 40 residents at the Refugio, TX facility.

With 38 years of experience in long-term care, she has consistently centered her events around community involvement. Through this methodology, she stated, she has fostered enduring connections with LTC leaders, peers, and local residents who are eager to lend a hand with whatever her residents require.

“I have been incredibly fortunate to have co-workers that provide me with full support. I’ve collaborated with volunteers here who simply arrive and ask, ‘What can we do to assist you?’ When you engage the community, they will seek you out,” she remarked. “I desire for the residents to feel part of the larger community outside.”

A key aspect that makes events at Mission Ridge unique is that they are consistently open to the public, inviting residents’ families and nearby neighborhoods.

“We have small communities in the vicinity that come and participate. There’s Refugio (with a population of 2,710), Blanconia (100), and Odem (2,315) is a very tiny town. We’re surrounded by several small towns,” Cruz highlighted.

She expressed her commitment to encouraging residents to step out of their comfort zones, having witnessed the effects of loneliness and isolation on seniors.

For nearly 40 years, she has prioritized demonstrating to residents that they are cherished and supported.

“I actively engage my residents and say, ‘Let’s go dine together in the dining area.’ Or, let’s gather, make some noise, and enjoy ourselves,” she shared. “They eagerly anticipate leaving their rooms and partaking in the events and activities because they appreciate being informed about what is happening.”