Changing Senior Living Perceptions: Vibrant Independent Living & Assisted Living in Wichita, KS
Be The Change You Want to See in The World
This “Aging with Grace” article was written by Jennifer Sanders and published in the Catholic Advance, The Official Newspaper of the Diocese of Wichita.
How often in the course of the day are we confronted with situations in the news or in our own communities that we aren’t pleased to learn of? We might think to ourselves, “someone should do something about that,” but how often do we stop and ask ourselves how we can impact that change?
Recently, I was fortunate to be a part of the diocese’s Seasoned Servant Symposium at St. Catherine of Sienna Parish. This day-long event for seniors of the diocese featured speakers talking about their spiritual journeys and how we can make the most of our time in this life serving God and supporting our families and communities. They were wonderful presentations, but what was even more impressive to me were the seniors who attended the event.
Throughout the event, the attendees visited the exhibitors’ tables along the perimeter of the room. They weren’t simply collecting brochures and free pens, and believe me when I say I’ve been to some events like that, but these seniors of our diocese were actively involved in planning for their future needs, learning more about opportunities to share their gifts and talents, and helping support their friends, families, and parishes. I met people who had driven two hours to attend the event and take back information on diocesan resources in our area to their home parishes in the event that someone might find themselves in need of this information. One woman approached our table to inquire about making rosaries for our chapels, and several others asked very specific questions on volunteer opportunities and care opportunities at Catholic Care Center.
I’ve mentioned this in previous columns, but there is a stereotype that is very prevalent in our culture about seniors and the misperception that they are feeble, inactive, or otherwise dependent. The seniors attending the symposium are the opposite of this negative stereotype because not only are they active and engaged, but they are invested in being proactive in their aging journey and remaining connected to their community. This isn’t coincidental. These people are working to create change, working to be healthy and informed, and support others in their aging journey.
This is a good reminder for all of us, whether we are young or old. Whether we live in a senior living community or in a traditional neighborhood. Instead of waiting for someone else to make things happen, creating that book club, organizing a prayer line, starting a walking club, why don’t we harness our own talents and energy and be that change?
Not only does this allow us to share the gifts we’ve been blessed with, it also challenges us to be positive and create change rather than just complain about the current situation and wait for someone else to take action.
Some of the most popular activities and traditions at Catholic Care Center have been formed by residents. These residents didn’t simply move in and wait for things to happen, they looked for opportunities to create the type of community they wanted to be a part of.
It was inspiring to meet so many engaged and dedicated seniors at the symposium, and to be reminded of the opportunity and obligation we all have to be the change we wish to see in the world.
Who better to show us how to provide the best senior living than seniors themselves? Whether you or a loved one is searching for independent living, memory care, long term care, or assisted living in a senior community, we invite you to see how we’re making a difference in vibrant living.
