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As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, spring offers the perfect opportunity for older adults to refresh their routines and focus on health and wellness. Whether you’re enjoying independent living or part of long-term care community, there’s no better time to embrace healthy habits and soak up the season’s positive energy.

From staying active to making the most of sunny days, here are our top tips for older adult health and wellness this spring!

1. Get Moving with Outdoor Activities

With longer days and pleasant temperatures, it’s the ideal time to head outside. Take a walk around your neighborhood or local park, try gardening, or join an outdoor exercise class. Not only will you enjoy physical benefits, but time outdoors also improves mood and mental clarity.

2. Stay Hydrated

As temps rise, don’t forget to drink up! Older adults are more prone to dehydration, so keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day. Not a fan of plain water? Try infusing it with fresh fruit or herbal teas for a flavorful twist.

3. Protect Your Skin

A bit of sunshine is great for vitamin D, but don’t skip sun safety. Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and opt for light, long-sleeved clothing to shield your skin while enjoying the outdoors.

4. Spring Clean for a Fresh Start

Decluttering and deep cleaning isn’t just for aesthetics—it can improve respiratory health, reduce fall risks, and lift your spirits. Tackle one room at a time or ask for help from family or caregivers if needed.

5. Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Social connection plays a major role in wellness. Schedule a visit, plan a video chat, or join a local community group to keep bonds strong and boost emotional health.

6. Embrace Fresh, Seasonal Eating

Take advantage of spring’s bounty! Add more colorful fruits, veggies, and fresh herbs to your meals. Consider visiting a farmers market or starting a small container garden. A nutrient-rich diet helps increase energy, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of chronic disease.

7. Prioritize Restful Sleep

Quality sleep is vital for overall health. Stick to a consistent bedtime routine, create a calming sleep space, and talk to your healthcare provider if sleep challenges persist.

8. Stay on Top of Health Screenings

Now’s the time to catch up on annual checkups, vision and hearing tests, and recommended vaccines like flu or pneumonia. Prevention and early detection are key.

9. Keep Your Mind Engaged

Stimulate your brain by reading, doing puzzles, learning a new skill, or attending a local class. A healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body!

10. Practice Relaxation and Mindfulness

Reduce stress by incorporating mindfulness practices into your day. Try gentle yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or simply enjoy the peace of nature.

11. Take Advantage of Senior Discounts and Events

From museum passes to wellness programs, many places offer springtime discounts and events for seniors. Check with local organizations and community centers—you might find a new favorite activity!

12. Plan Safe and Enjoyable Travel

If you’re planning a spring getaway, pack medications, and stay hydrated. Traveling with a companion or joining a group tour can also add ease and peace of mind.

14. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Whether it’s birdwatching, planting flowers, or simply sitting on a sunny bench, spending time in nature helps reduce stress and elevate your mood. Embrace all the sights, sounds, and scents of spring!

15. Give Back or Volunteer

Helping others is great for the soul. Whether it’s volunteering at a local charity, mentoring, or lending a hand to a neighbor, giving back brings a strong sense of purpose and connection.

Springtime Health Habits to Start Today

In addition to the tips above, here are three simple habits to kick off the season:

• Check Your First Aid Kit & Emergency Supplies: Make sure your supplies are current and complete—just in case.
• Schedule a Health Check-In: Spring is the perfect time for a reset. Make appointments and review any lingering health questions with your doctor.
• Recommit to Wellness Goals: With fresh produce, longer days, and renewed motivation, explore new recipes, outdoor movement, or self-care routines that bring you joy.

A Season for Renewal 

Spring is a season of renewal—and older adults can feel that same energy! By embracing these health and wellness tips, you’re not only preparing for a vibrant spring, but also building habits that support your well-being all year long. 

So, put a little spring in your step, and take the first step today—whether it’s sipping more water, calling a friend, or enjoying a quiet moment in nature. 

Russell Martin Rickers was a beloved figure in Worthington, MN, whose life was defined by his unwavering kindness, dedication, and the deep connections he built with others. Known for his work as a photographer, his contributions to the community, and his generosity, Russ touched the lives of countless people. Whether through his work at Rickers Studio, his involvement in local initiatives like Ecumen Meadows, or his enduring friendships, Russ left a lasting impact on the people and the place he loved.

A Legacy in Photography

Russ began his career in photography at Rickers Studio, the family business that still stands today under different ownership. For decades, he captured special moments for countless families, from weddings to graduations, and was known for his personal touch. On nearly every tour of Worthington, it wasn’t uncommon for someone to stop and exclaim, “He took my wedding pictures!” or “He took my graduation photos!” The name Rickers was synonymous with special memories for so many people in the region.

Pioneering the Meadows

Russ’s contributions to Worthington extended beyond his photography work. In the early 1990s, he played a key role in the creation of the Meadows (now known as Ecumen Meadows), a senior living community designed to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for older adults. The idea for Ecumen Meadows started with Worthington Industries, a local group that identified the need for independent living options for retirees. Russ, along with a group of investors, helped bring the vision to life.

The original plan was for independent living apartments, but as the needs of the community evolved, so did the needs of this building. Ecumen Meadows eventually grew into an assisted living and memory care community, with new buildings added as demand increased. Russ was instrumental in securing the land, the financial backing, and the community support that made Ecumen Meadows a reality. Even after selling the property to Ecumen in 2005, his connection to the assisted living and memory care community remained strong. It was a project close to his heart, and he continued to support it in various ways.

A Generous Spirit

In 2020, Russ and his wife, Jan, moved into Ecumen Meadows themselves, where they found a home in their later years. When Jan passed away in June 2022, Russ made a generous donation to the memory care patio in her honor. Thanks to his kindness, the space was upgraded with new cement, furniture, and a retractable shade awning, providing a more comfortable environment for residents. This act of generosity is just one example of how Russ touched the lives of everyone at Ecumen Meadows.

His love and devotion to Jan were evident in everything he did. His support for the community, especially those in memory care, showed the depth of his character. He was not only a friend to those at Ecumen Meadows but to everyone in Worthington. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt, but his legacy of kindness, support, and community service will continue to inspire those who knew him.

A Life of Service

Russ’s involvement in Worthington went far beyond Ecumen Meadows. He was an active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church for over 81 years, served as president of the Kiwanis Club, and was an instrumental part of the YMCA. He also gave his time to the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce, the Minnesota Professional Photographers Association, and countless other local organizations. His volunteer efforts ranged from reading with elementary students to delivering Meals on Wheels, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others.

Russ also served on the board of Worthington Federal Savings Bank and was a member of the Worthington Country Club. His leadership extended to Worthington Area Industries Inc., where he worked to promote local businesses and strengthen the community. Alongside his wife, he was honored with the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award, a recognition of their collective dedication to the region.

A Beloved Family Man

Born on November 14, 1931, in Sibley, Iowa, to Harry and Alice Rickers, Russ moved to Worthington at the age of 3. He graduated from Worthington High School in 1949 and served in the National Guard from 1951 to 1952. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Janet, on a blind date, and they were married in 1960. Together, they raised a family and became pillars of their community.

Russ was not just known for his work but for the kindness and love he showed to everyone around him. He was a true friend to many, and his death leaves a hole in the hearts of those who knew him. His family, too, continues the legacy of warmth, generosity, and community spirit that Russ embodied throughout his life.

A Lasting Impact

Russell Martin Rickers was a man who lived his life with purpose, always putting others first. His work with Rickers Photography, his role in creating Ecumen Meadows, and his many hours of service to local organizations have left an indelible mark on the Worthington community. His contributions will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to celebrate the crucial role that occupational therapists (OTs) play in helping individuals live life to the fullest. Mary Reilly, during her Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture, beautifully described occupational therapy as “That man, through the use of his hands, as they are energized by mind and will, can influence the state of his own health” (AOTA, 2017). Today, occupational therapy is defined as “the therapeutic use of everyday life occupations with persons, groups, or populations for the purpose of enhancing or enabling participation” (AOTA, 2020).

At Ecumen, we align our care philosophy with the core principles of occupational therapy, incorporating the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle and Awakenings philosophies into our approach to older adult care. This empowers residents to engage in meaningful activities, maintain independence, and find joy in daily life.

Historical Origins of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy has its roots in the Moral Treatment Movement and the Arts and Crafts Movement, which emphasized the importance of engaging in occupations—such as arts and crafts—to improve health. In 1917, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) was founded, with key figures like Eleanor Clarke Slagle and William Dunton laying the groundwork for the profession. During the World Wars, occupational therapists helped soldiers recover from PTSD and physical injuries through purposeful activities.

In the decades that followed, the profession evolved from a rehabilitation focus to a more holistic approach, incorporating psychological and social aspects of health and function (AOTA, 2017).

Occupational Therapy Today

Occupational therapy continues to prioritize the use of everyday activities to promote well-being. The 2024 Minnesota Statutes define occupational therapy as supporting individuals to develop, recover, and maintain various aspects of performance—such as sensory, emotional, and cognitive skills (“Public Health Occupations: Occupational Therapy and Occupational Therapy Assistants,” 2024). Today, the profession also supports mental health, promoting well-being in non-psychiatric settings (AOTA, 2022; Karr, 2024).

At Ecumen, we embrace a holistic approach that includes mental health treatment alongside traditional therapy interventions, expanding the role of occupational therapy within rehab therapy. This evolution aligns with the values of autonomy, dignity, and purposeful living.

Ecumen Therapy’s Holistic Approach

We are excited to introduce Lexie Chambers, an occupational therapy student from the University of Kansas Medical Center, who is spearheading a capstone project titled “Beyond the Medical Model: Supporting Mental Health of Older Adults in a Continuing Care Retirement Community.” This project aims to develop group protocols that support physical, mental, and social health, including:

• Chair Yoga: A mindfulness-based exercise group.
• Morning/Mid-Day Muscle Moves: A full-body exercise group for strength and mobility.
• Functional Mobility & IADLs: Practicing shopping and mobility tasks to reduce isolation.
• Meal Prep: A hands-on group to develop kitchen skills.
• Outdoor Exploration: Activities to enhance well-being through outdoor exposure.

Lexie’s work, along with our integration of Montessori Inspired Lifestyle and Awakenings, reflects Ecumen’s commitment to supporting holistic care. Through these philosophies, we create environments where residents maintain autonomy and live with dignity and purpose.

This Occupational Therapy Month, we celebrate the profession’s transformative impact on individuals’ lives. At Ecumen, we are proud to embrace occupational therapy’s holistic principles, helping residents live meaningful, fulfilling lives. You can find more information about Ecumen Therapy services on our website. Click here.

Ecumen is pleased to announce that Tom Krolak joined Ecumen as its new Controller.

“Tom brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit finance and accounting, having held leadership positions with several well-respected organizations,” said Ecumen Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Doug Harrison. His past roles include key positions at the American Lung Association of Minnesota, the Minnesota Historical Society, and Urban Ventures. Most recently, Tom served as the Controller at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, where he further honed his expertise in nonprofit financial management.

Krolak holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and an MBA in Nonprofit Management, both from the University of St. Thomas. Additionally, he is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a credential that underscores his strong foundation in financial leadership.

I had the privilege of volunteering alongside my 4-year-old son, Lincoln at Ecumen St. Benedict’s Community. We spent just one hour together at SBC, and in that short time, something incredible happened. Lincoln arrived eager to “go to work,” ready to do whatever was needed. Whether he was asked to sweep the floor or simply offer a smile, he approached every task with joy and enthusiasm. To him, no act of service was too small or insignificant. Every action, every moment, mattered.

And in the midst of that simplicity, something extraordinary occurred. Residents who are often quiet or withdrawn were suddenly engaged.

• A resident who rarely shows emotion played peek-a-boo with Lincoln, lighting up with laughter.
• Another resident joined in a game of catch, reconnecting with the fun of human interaction.
• A few residents who rarely receive visitors shared how they felt “like Grandma again”—a heartwarming reminder of how much connection means.

As we left, Lincoln, with a heart full of joy, was already asking when he could return. It was a beautiful moment of connection, but also a powerful reminder of the profound impact volunteering can have.  

There’s often a stigma around volunteering—that it requires large, time-consuming commitments for tasks that may seem small or unimportant. But what Lincoln’s experience at Ecumen showed me is that even the simplest, most fleeting gestures can have profound effects. A few minutes of playing a game, offering a smile, or doing something as simple as sweeping the floor can bring joy, connection, and purpose to others.

Volunteering isn’t just about changing the lives of those you serve; it’s also about transforming your own heart. The act of giving, no matter how small, cultivates a spirit of gratitude and joy. Volunteering helps us connect to something bigger than ourselves, and in doing so, it reminds us of the simple joys of life. A giving heart is truly a cheerful heart.

Today, in honor of National Women in Sports Day, we want to shine a spotlight on one of our incredible residents who is truly an all-star athlete: Rosie Nerem of Ecumen Meadows in Worthington, Minn. If you were to look up the definition of “multi-sport athlete,” you’d likely find Rosie’s picture right next to it. From bowling to snowmobiling, waterskiing to parasailing, and everything in between, Rosie has participated in an impressive array of sports throughout her life, including knee boarding, softball, basketball, golf, fishing, and horseback riding.

A Love of Horses and Adventure

Growing up on a farm, Rosie developed a love for horseback riding, an experience that would later lead to one of her most memorable adventures. Years after her childhood on the farm, she booked an adventure trip to Phantom Ranch in Arizona. There, Rosie rode a mule down into the Grand Canyon—a 10 to 11-mile trek. She spent the night at the bottom of the canyon and took a different route out the next morning. As she recalled, “I returned home with great memories and a sore fanny!” But this wasn’t the only thrill-seeking vacation she took. Rosie and her daughter, Ruth, ventured to Maui, where they caught Mahi Mahi in the Pacific Ocean and went parasailing. An experience she’ll never forget!

Bowling: A Passion Shared with Friends

Bowling was another sport Rosie enjoyed, and she spent many years in a bowling league alongside good friends. Her bowling average ranged between 130 and 140, but for Rosie, the real joy was being surrounded by great bowlers and, most importantly, great friends. “We had a lot of fun together,” Rosie fondly remembers.

Golfing: A Lifelong Passion

Rosie’s love for golf began in the early 1960s after she moved to Worthington. She quickly became an avid golfer, joining the ladies’ leagues at the Worthington Country Club, where she played alongside dear friends. Golf was perfect for Rosie because it allowed her to enjoy time with friends in beautiful outdoor settings during the warm seasons. She continued playing golf for many years, but she retired from the sport around eight years ago.

Fishing: A Lifelong Adventure

When asked which sport was her favorite, Rosie couldn’t choose between golf and fishing. Sportfishing has been an integral part of her life, and she has countless fish stories to tell. For many years, Rosie went on an annual fishing trip with the Reading Bus Line to Lake of the Woods. She’d travel up on Sunday and return by Thursday, always looking forward to the memories made.

Rosie’s fishing adventures were often shared with her dear friend and fishing buddy, Phyllis. It was on a fishing trip with Phyllis on the Missouri River that Rosie caught her biggest fish—a 21-pound northern! Rosie, a widow, knew the fish was too large for her to eat, so she asked Phyllis to give it to her son Brian, a taxidermist. A month later, Rosie was surprised to receive the mounted fish as a gift from Phyllis. The beautiful mount has proudly hung in her home ever since.

Another cherished fishing memory for Rosie was a trip with her nephew John to a lodge in Port Washington. While there, they fished on Lake Michigan, and Rosie caught a 17-pound salmon!

The End of an Era: A Farewell to Fishing

Though Rosie had to give up fishing about three years ago due to challenges with stability on the shore and rocks, she’ll always have a deep love for the sport. Her body told her it was time to stop, but she misses the thrill of fishing and the memories she made with her friends and family on the water.

On National Women in Sports Day, we celebrate Rosie Nerem’s lifelong passion for sports and her incredible ability to stay active, adventurous, and connected to the people she loves. She is a true inspiration and a reminder of how sport can shape our lives and bring joy, connection, and unforgettable memories.

February is Heart Health Month, a time to reflect on the importance of taking care of our hearts, especially as we age. A healthy heart plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being, and small lifestyle changes can go a long way in reducing the risk of heart disease. Here are seven heart-healthy tips for aging adults to keep your heart in top shape:

1. Maintain a Heart-Healthy Diet

A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for heart health. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, like those found in olive oil and avocados, while limiting processed foods, salt, and saturated fats to keep your heart functioning at its best. At Ecumen, we’re proud of our dining team’s dedication to supporting heart health within our communities. Many of our team members are trained at regional culinary institutes and receive ongoing education from our Registered Dietitian and Certified Dietary Manager. This training covers everything from kitchen sanitation to nutrition tailored to individual care plans, ensuring every meal not only meets regulatory guidelines but also promotes the heart health of our residents. You can find more information about Ecumen dining here.

2. Stay Active with Regular Exercise

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to keep your heart healthy. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Strength training exercises, like lifting light weights, are also great for maintaining a healthy weight and improving circulation. To support heart health, our Life Enrichment teams within our communities prioritize physical activity by scheduling engaging exercises each week.

3. Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Practicing stress-management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or simply taking time to relax can help lower your stress and, in turn, protect your heart. Finding time to unwind and focus on positive activities is essential.

4. Get Quality Sleep

Sleep plays an important role in heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can contribute to high blood pressure, weight gain, and other conditions that strain your heart. If you have trouble sleeping, try establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, limit caffeine late in the day, and avoid excessive screen time before bed.

5. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels

Regularly monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol levels is essential in maintaining heart health. High blood pressure and high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Work with your healthcare provider to keep track of these numbers and make necessary adjustments to your lifestyle or medications.

6. Stay Socially Active

Maintaining social connections and staying engaged with your family, friends, and community can positively impact your heart health. Strong social networks help reduce stress, improve mood, and even promote healthier lifestyle choices. Whether through joining a group, participating in activities, or simply keeping in touch with loved ones, staying socially active can have a powerful effect on your heart.

At Ecumen, we understand that staying connected with others is vital for overall well-being, especially as we age. Our communities are designed to foster meaningful relationships and combat feelings of loneliness by encouraging social engagement and participation in activities. By providing opportunities for residents to interact with one another through events, programs, and shared experiences, we help create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and connected. Staying socially engaged not only enhances quality of life but also contributes to better mental and emotional health.

7. Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Routine check-ups with your doctor are essential for catching any potential heart issues early. Regular visits ensure that you stay on top of any health concerns, receive timely screenings, and have the opportunity to discuss heart health strategies with your healthcare provider.

Taking care of your heart as you age is essential for maintaining a high quality of life. By adopting these heart-healthy habits, you can enjoy better health and well-being for years to come. This Heart Health Month, make a commitment to prioritize your heart and live a longer, healthier life!

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At 80 years old, Darlene Shafer shows no signs of slowing down. Her journey with Ecumen began in the winter of 2015, when she moved back to Minnesota after living in Arizona. Unsatisfied with retirement, Darlene knew she needed a purpose and an outlet to continue doing what she loves—working with people. Little did she know, this new chapter at Ecumen Point Pleasant Heights would be one of the most fulfilling of her life.

Darlene’s motivation to continue working at Ecumen, even at 80, stems from her deep passion for the work she does. “I enjoy the team I work with every day and the residents and their families that I get to help find homes,” she shares. For Darlene, sitting idle is simply not an option. She thrives on having a purpose and contributing to something larger than herself each day.

Her role as Senior Living Consultant at Ecumen Point Pleasant Heights has allowed Darlene to reconnect with old friends in the area and help them find their place at Ecumen. “It’s so fun to watch them thrive here,” she says, highlighting the personal joy she gets from helping familiar faces settle into their new homes. Darlene’s love for staying active and up-to-date with current trends keeps her engaged both professionally and personally.  

While technology has posed a challenge at times, Darlene has always embraced change with open arms. “I adapt quickly and can catch on once I’m shown something,” she says. Her experience in relational sales, a key part of Ecumen’s approach, has been incredibly rewarding. She finds it fulfilling to see younger team members trained in this style, as it’s something she’s been passionate about throughout her career.

Darlene’s commitment to her work at Ecumen not only benefits her professionally but also personally. “I love getting up for work and having a schedule,” she explains. Her job aligns seamlessly with her volunteer work in local organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, and Chamber of Commerce. Interaction with people from all walks of life is something Darlene finds truly fulfilling, and it keeps her connected to the community.

Her wisdom and experience shine through in her work, and she prides herself on being able to connect with others in a way that brings trust and ease. “I can talk to almost anyone and make them feel at ease,” she says. This ability to build rapport with residents and their families is one of Darlene’s greatest strengths and a key part of her success in the role.

When asked for advice for younger colleagues or those considering a long-term career in this field, Darlene’s message is clear: “If you are a people person, go for it! Focus on building trust and being relatable and get involved in your community.” She encourages others to volunteer, join local groups, and engage with people—because it’s through these connections that meaningful relationships and career success are built.

For those considering re-entering the workforce in their later years, Darlene has an inspiring message: “Age is just a number! Give it a try!” She believes that staying active and engaged in fulfilling work can have profound personal rewards. “I get more back than I give—it’s like I get paid twice!”

Looking to the future, Darlene is excited about the expansion of Ecumen, particularly the development of new housing options at Ecumen Point Pleasant Heights. She’s also eager to see Ecumen Home Care expand into her area to serve even more clients. Darlene’s vision for the future is filled with optimism, and she hopes to see the team at Point Pleasant Heights continue to thrive as they achieve their occupancy goals for 2025.

Over the years, Darlene has formed lasting friendships with many people she’s met through her work. “My job has fulfilled me and kept me active and youthful,” she says with a smile. Darlene’s time at Ecumen has been incredibly rewarding, and her impact on the residents, families, and team members she works with is immeasurable.

As Darlene celebrates her 80th birthday, she’s a shining example of how passion, purpose, and dedication can continue to make a difference, no matter your age. We are incredibly fortunate to have Darlene as part of the Ecumen team, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact she will have in the years to come.

Four Ecumen communities have been named “Best Nursing Home” by U.S. News & World Report. To be considered for this recognition, a senior living community had to participate in a consumer satisfaction survey in 2024, meet specific eligibility criteria, and earn a required score based on the program’s guidelines.

In the 2025 Best Nursing Homes report, over 15,000 nursing homes were evaluated based on factors like patient and resident outcomes, infection rates, staffing levels, use of antipsychotic medications, health inspection results, and other quality measures.

Ecumen North Branch, Ecumen Lakeshore, Ecumen Sartell Therapy Suites, and Ecumen Detroit Lakes all earned the “Best Nursing Home” rating for their short-term rehabilitation services. 

“We are proud to announce that four of our communities have been recognized as the top nursing homes in Minnesota by U.S. News & World Report. These awards reflect the exceptional care provided by our dedicated team members to our residents and patients, who are the true recipients of this recognition,” said Shelley Kendrick, President & CEO of Ecumen.

Since 2009, the U.S. News Best Nursing Home ratings have used data from Nursing Home Compare, a program run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency that sets and enforces nursing home standards. The Best Nursing Homes ratings help people find a nursing home for themselves or a loved one, whether they need short-term rehabilitation or long-term care. These ratings are based on U.S. News’ analysis of government-published data, using a different approach than the federal government.

The federal CMS system rates nursing homes on three key areas: health inspections, nurse staffing, and medical quality measures. Nursing homes also get a star rating in each of these areas. For short-term rehabilitation, U.S. News looks at two years of data on emergency-room visits and hospitalizations to get more reliable information about a nursing home’s ability to prevent these issues. This method was used last year for long-term care ratings and is now applied to both types of care.

Ecumen Detroit Lakes is proud to announce its achievement of the Gold Credentialing through CARD Montessori Lifestyle (MIL) and Awakenings Transformation. This significant milestone reflects the community’s unwavering commitment to providing a resident-centered, dignified, and empowering environment for both residents and team members.

The Gold Credentialing recognizes Ecumen Detroit Lakes’ continued dedication to creating a thriving, independent community where individuals of all abilities are encouraged to make decisions, maintain autonomy, and engage meaningfully with their greater community. The community has consistently surpassed expectations, reaching a variety of milestones that reflect the core values of the Montessori Inspired Lifestyle (MIL), including respect, dignity, and inclusion.

“We are truly honored to have received the Gold Credentialing from CARD Montessori Lifestyle and Awakenings Transformation,” said Danielle Olson, Executive Director at Ecumen Detroit Lakes. “This achievement highlights our team’s commitment to fostering an environment where residents can live with purpose, autonomy, and respect, and it reflects the dedication of everyone at Ecumen Detroit Lakes who works hard every day to bring these values to life.”  

Gold Milestones: A Commitment to Excellence

Ecumen Detroit Lakes has demonstrated exemplary achievement in several key areas, including:

• Exemplary and Innovative Application of MIL Principles: Ecumen Detroit Lakes has successfully implemented unique and innovative practices such as the Good Ideas Committee, which empowers residents to collaborate and contribute new ideas that enhance their daily lives through life enrichment activities.
• Team Evaluations and Job Descriptions Reflecting MIL Values: The community ensures that job descriptions and team member evaluations align with MIL values, ensuring that the principles of dignity, respect, and community membership are integrated into every level of service.
• Sustainable Systems for Continued Success: Ecumen Detroit Lakes has put systems in place to ensure that their bronze and silver achievements are sustained, creating a lasting framework for excellence in care and resident engagement.
• Collaboration with CARD Experts: As part of the credentialing process, Ecumen Detroit Lakes completed a half-day site visit with a member of CARD to further refine and enhance their implementation of the Montessori principles.

Building on Bronze and Silver Milestones

This achievement follows a series of important milestones achieved during earlier stages of the process.

At the Bronze level, Ecumen Detroit Lakes focused on building relationships and creating an environment of choice and autonomy for residents and staff. These efforts included:

• Encouraging residents to call each other by name, enhancing personal connections.
• Providing residents with opportunities to make decisions, including participation in committees and volunteering for various roles.
• Promoting engaging interactions during family visits and ensuring cognitive ramps support wayfinding.

At the Silver level, the community expanded its commitment to ongoing learning and development, including:

• Implementing a system for in-service training led by internal trainers to ensure continuous growth.
• Emphasizing the community’s mission of dignity, equality, and respect.
• Ensuring residents have the ability to personalize their private spaces and contribute to decisions regarding shared areas.

Looking Ahead

With the Gold Credentialing, Ecumen Detroit Lakes has reaffirmed its position as a leader in creating a vibrant, empowered community where residents and team members are encouraged to live to their fullest potential. Moving forward, the community remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of care and continually innovating to improve the lives of residents and staff alike.

“Achieving this credential is just the beginning,” said Olson. “We will continue to build on this success and ensure that Ecumen Detroit Lakes remains a place where residents can thrive, feel valued, and enjoy a sense of community that is truly exceptional.”