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Date: 1/4/2024
LONGMEADOW — Ruth’s House, an assisted living facility for older people and those living with dementia, has begun expanding the activities and programs it offers residents to build enrichment and friendships.
“We have such a diverse group of residents with different interests and needs,” said Life Enrichment Director Delila Jones. Ruth’s House also offers pastimes, exercise and musical programs and the dementia floor engages in music and pet therapy, among other activities.
Susan Jaye-Kaplan, who volunteers at Ruth’s House, where her husband is a resident, said that there are plenty of activities throughout the week, but the weekends are “quiet.” Jones and the volunteers working with Ruth’s House are trying to fill that need with new activities and programs.
Ruth’s House does not have room for a commissary, but once per week, residents can shop from a mobile cart for necessities, such as clothing, linens, stationery and toiletries. Most of the items are free of charge, although Jaye-Kaplan said some residents pay $1 for the goods, which are funded through donations. Last month, Ruth’s House hosted a holiday bazaar, with tables of goods for residents to shop and find gifts for loved ones.
In June 2023, volunteers were matched with residents, who shared stories from their lives. The volunteers transcribed the stories, journaling the lives of the residents over several months. Jones said the program was successful in providing residents with a book to look back on, connecting them with members of the community. Jaye-Kaplan said some of the volunteers have become friends with the residents with whom they had journaled and continue to visit.
In the new year, the facility will begin a pen pal program with a group of local students, which offers a valuable intergenerational link to young people, Jones said. Another intergenerational program, monthly recitals by children studying music with local studios and coaches, will begin in January. Starting in February, members of the public will give talks and demonstrations about their passions and hobbies.
Jones said Ruth’s House is adding an additional staff member during the weekends, in part to help administer resident programs. In addition to the staff are volunteers, who help administer and organize programs and play a key role in limiting resident isolation and loneliness. When it comes to volunteers, she said, “There’s always a need.”
Jones said there are many factors that play into how much engagement family members have with residents. Some people do not have adult children, while others may not have any loved ones who live in this part of the country. “The family members we do have are amazing and really involved,” she said. “Having someone like Susan Kaplan is invaluable.”
Jaye-Kaplan said the most important part of these programs is the opportunity for members of the public to meet and get to know the residents. “I want the community involved,” Jaye-Kaplan said. “I want residents to make a friend, and usually, when they come in, they come back.”
Ruth’s House is at 780 Converse St., Longmeadow. More information can be found at jgslifecare.org/communities/ruths-house.