Nurses Drive Better Senior Outcomes
Nurses Drive Better Senior Outcomes
By Ecumen | May 6, 2026
SHOREVIEW, MN (May 6, 2026) — When you or someone you love steps into a senior living community, you want more than care. You want reassurance. You want someone who notices the small changes, answers late-night questions, and treats every resident like an individual, not a patient.
In senior living communities, nurses don’t just deliver care. This is especially true in nonprofit communities where the commitment is guided by mission, compassion, and a focus on people over profit. Nurses build relationships, coordinate support, and help older adults live with dignity, purpose, and stability.
May offers a meaningful reminder of that impact. During National Nurses Week and Older Americans Month, communities across the country celebrate both the professionals who provide compassionate care and the older adults whose lives they support. Together, these observances highlight something powerful – when we invest in nurses, we also invest in healthier, more supported aging for everyone.
The Evidence Is Clear
Decades of research point to a simple truth – strong nursing presence leads to better health outcomes for seniors. The National Institutes of Health reports that:
- Top-performing senior communities provide about 20% more staff time per resident
- Higher registered nurse (RN) staffing links to lower infection rates and lower mortality
- Increased nurse staffing reduces emergency department visits and hospitalizations
Why Nursing Care Matters More Than Ever
More than 1.2 million people in the United States now live in assisted living communities, and many bring complex, ongoing health needs that require consistent clinical oversight.
Nurses act as the critical link between medical treatment and daily life. They assess subtle changes in health, manage medications, coordinate with physicians, and provide hands-on care to prevent minor concerns from escalating into serious complications. Nurses provide continuity, helping residents maintain stability while adapting care plans as needs evolve.
In today’s environment, where both demand for senior care and the complexity of care needs continue to rise, nursing care doesn’t just support outcomes. It shapes the entire aging experience and more time spent on what matters most. Things like sharing a meal, enjoying a conversation, or simply feeling at home.
For seniors and their families, this kind of care isn’t just better; it’s everything. And when you choose a community with strong nursing leadership, such as Ecumen, you’re not just choosing care, you’re choosing peace of mind, both now and in the years ahead.
Happy Nurses Week to all the nurses and caregivers across Ecumen communities, Home Care, and Hospice. The care you provide is essential to Ecumen’s mission and makes an undeniable difference in so many lives.
Are you a nurse interested in joining Ecumen? Find openings and apply online!
Looking for a senior living community, home care, or hospice? Find Ecumen locations and service area details on our website.
The Connection Between Purpose and Longevity – What the Research Shows
The Connection Between Purpose and Longevity
— What the Research Shows
By Ecumen | April 30, 2026
SHOREVIEW, MN (April 30, 2026) — If you spent your breakfast wondering how to add a few more high-quality years to your life, you might want to put down the kale smoothie for a moment and pick up a volunteer sign-up sheet! And there’s no better time to start. April is National Volunteer Month, a time dedicated to celebrating service and encouraging more people to get involved in their communities.
We often focus on gym routines, supplements, and the latest wellness trends when it comes to longevity. Research, however, points to something just as powerful – a sense of purpose. Feeling that your life has direction and meaning can play a role in how long and how well you live. For many people, volunteering offers a natural, fulfilling way to build a sense of purpose.
There’s something energizing about waking up with a reason to get out of bed. You might mentor a student, serve meals at a local shelter, or help a neighbor through a tough week. That sense of purpose doesn’t just lift your mood in the moment; it may also support your long-term health and longevity.
Let’s take a closer look at what science says and why purpose may be one of the most underrated drivers of longevity.
Why Purpose Matters More Than You Think
Purpose does more than just make you feel good; it can influence your biology. Purpose gives structure to your days. It shapes your decisions, strengthens your relationships, and helps you navigate stress.
Researchers have found that people with a strong sense of purpose tend to experience better mental and physical health outcomes. A landmark study published by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health followed nearly 7,000 adults ages 50 and older. The team discovered that volunteering and other acts of kindness support both emotional well-being and long-term health, partly because they reduce loneliness and stress, which are two major risk factors for disease and early death.
Social connection also plays a huge role. Strong relationships and meaningful interactions lower the risk of conditions such as heart disease, depression, and even dementia. On the flip side, social isolation can increase the risk of premature death by up to 29%.
Purpose, in other words, connects you to people, to community, and to something bigger than yourself.
Research on Volunteering and Longevity
Volunteering sits right at the intersection of purpose and connection. The Mayo Clinic reports that volunteering offers three primary health benefits:
- Physical Activity: Many volunteer roles keep you moving, stretching, and walking.
- Social Connection: Regular interaction with a community builds a protective social buffer.
- The Helper’s High: Helping others releases dopamine, reducing stress and increasing feelings of relaxation.
Finding Your Purpose Through Volunteering
If you’re curious about getting involved, start small and choose something that feels meaningful to you.
Ask yourself:
- Which causes matter most to me?
- Do I enjoy working with people, animals, or the environment?
- How much time can I realistically commit each week?
You don’t need a packed schedule to make an impact. Even a few hours a month can create connection, build purpose, and improve how you feel day to day.
Ecumen offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities, making it easy to find a role that fits your interests and schedule.
- Being a friendly visitor and providing companionship
- Calling Bingo or helping with puzzles and board games
- Leading or assisting with spiritual services or Bible studies
- Lending your green thumb skills to care for indoor and outdoor plants
- Providing unstructured pet therapy visits for residents
- Sharing a musical talent through a performance or leading sing-alongs
- Sharing an artistic talent by leading an art activity
- Sharing your special talent or passion with our residents—feel free to give us a call to discuss your activity ideas!
Find purpose in sharing your time and talents through volunteering. You’ll feel good, make a lasting impact on others, and maybe even improve your health!
Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Volunteering with Ecumen is an opportunity to share your gifts, build relationships, and be part of something greater.
Take the next step—explore volunteer opportunities today.
Ecumen Names Karen Flores Chief People Officer
Ecumen Names Karen Flores Chief People Officer
By Angie Andresen | April 29, 2026
SHOREVIEW, MN (April 29, 2026) — Ecumen today announced that Karen Flores will join the organization as SVP & Chief People Officer, effective May 4. In this role, Flores will advance Ecumen’s people-first strategy and support the organization’s mission and culture.
“Karen is a proven, mission-aligned leader who brings the strategic perspective and operational discipline we need for our next chapter,” said Cyrus Batheja, Ecumen president and CEO. “Her track record of building strong teams and translating strategy into practical operating models will help us continue to strengthen our culture and invest in our people.”
With more than two decades of human resources and operations leadership in complex, highly regulated healthcare environments, Flores has led enterprise talent strategies, advanced career development and internal mobility, and guided large-scale organizational transformation with a focus on team member experience.
Flores holds an MBA in Strategy and Entrepreneurship from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and Political Science from Drake University. She also completed executive development through the McKinsey Management Accelerator.
Ecumen North Branch Leader Named 10 Under 10 Awardee
Ecumen North Branch Leader Named 10 Under 10 Awardee
By Angie Andresen | April 28, 2026
SHOREVIEW, MN (April 28, 2026) — Ecumen is proud to announce that Justin Boldt, Executive Director at Ecumen North Branch, has been named one of the Minnesota State University Moorhead Foundation’s 2026 10 Under 10 Awardees. The prestigious award recognizes outstanding alumni under the age of 40 who demonstrate exceptional professional achievement, leadership, and commitment to community service within 10 years of graduation.
Boldt oversees healthcare operations at Ecumen North Branch, including assisted living, memory care, short-term transitional care, and long-term care. Since stepping into his leadership role, he has helped elevate both resident care and employee retention, while fostering a culture grounded in compassion, dignity, and engagement.
Under Boldt’s leadership, Ecumen North Branch was recognized in 2024 as a recipient of the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living Bronze Commitment to Quality Award, which honors organizations demonstrating continuous improvement and consistent performance. In 2025, the campus also earned Gold Credentialing through CARD Montessori Lifestyle and Awakenings Transformation, recognizing excellence in resident-centered care that promotes autonomy, respect, and meaningful engagement.
“Justin’s authentic leadership has created a team that is deeply grounded in the community and focused on delivering consistent, high-quality care,” said Blaine Gamst, Ecumen Senior Director, Operations. “His leadership style is based in the philosophy that people thrive when they are seen, valued, and supported, and that is reflected in a team that leads with empathy and compassion.”
A 2019 graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and management, Boldt remains actively connected to his alma mater. He serves on MSU Moorhead’s Community of Interest Board for the Health Services Administration and Master of Healthcare Administration programs, where he helps guide and support the development of future healthcare leaders.
Boldt’s career has been marked by early leadership responsibilities, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to giving back—both to the profession of healthcare and to the communities and people Ecumen serves.
Justin and the other award recipients were recognized at a reception at Barry Auditorium at the MSUM Christianson Alumni Center on April 23.
Join us in congratulating Justin on this outstanding achievement!
Want to join Justin’s team? Find job opportunities and apply on our website.
A Special Volunteer’s Gift of Connection — Bella's Story
A Special Volunteer’s Gift of Connection
— Bella's Story
By Melody Royse | April 20, 2026
SHOREVIEW, MN (April 20, 2026) — On Monday mornings, something special happens at Ecumen St. Benedict’s Community in St. Cloud. The doors open, paws hit the floor, and a ripple of smiles follows. Amie arrives with her therapy dog, Bella, generously giving their time to brighten residents’ day.
In the spirit of National Volunteer Week, April 19 to April 25, Ecumen celebrates volunteers like Amie and Bella who put their generosity into action and bring heart to our communities for three years.
To residents living at St. Benedict’s, Bella is a familiar friend, a source of comfort, and a moment of pure joy. Bella knows the routine when she arrives. She joyfully bursts inside and runs to friends awaiting her visit. “She has people that she sees on a regular basis,” Amie shares, “She just loves being here. It’s fun to walk down the hall and everybody knows who she is and everybody says, ‘Bella’s here!’”
For residents who cherish the joy of a pet, having one of their own is not always possible. Bella’s visits help fill that space with warmth and companionship. “For Bella to visit and fill that void of not having a pet, even if it’s just her coming into the room and saying hi, can make a day better.”
Amie understands the science behind it. “The companionship that a pet brings can have psychological benefits,” she says. The calming presence of animals is known to reduce stress and anxiety and bring about feelings of greater emotional well-being. This is another way that Ecumen, through the dedication of service and therapy animals, provides holistic and integrative care to address all residents’ needs.
One moment in particular stays with Amie and the care team. A resident who once eagerly awaited Bella’s visits began to decline and withdraw. On one visit, Amie gently asked if she wanted to see Bella. She opened her eyes and started laughing, stunning team members! This resident hadn’t shown so much emotion in a very long time, but that brief moment with Bella brought laughter, touch, and connection back into the room. “It’s just amazing to have that impact.”
For Amie, volunteering is not an obligation, it is a gift she protects fiercely. “I always say Mondays are my day for therapy. I’m not giving up Mondays.” Bella naturally leans into the role, seeming to know exactly who needs her companionship the most.
Amie is continually moved by the residents’ warmth. “The residents are so gracious and they’re so welcoming and they want to know how your day is going.” And as she puts it, “The joy of coming here to volunteer is unbelievable…You get way more than you give.”
Thanks to generous volunteers, moments like these are possible. You create spaces of connection and joy, sometimes arriving on four legs with a wagging tail!
Power Up With Breakfast
POWER UP WITH BREAKFAST
By: Toni Swanson | April 16, 2026
Breakfast is often quoted as “the most important meal of the day” and for a good reason. It fuels our bodies with essential nutrients to not only function but thrive throughout the day. Fueling our body with adequate nutrition at the beginning of the day provides a handful of benefits:
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- Boosts Energy
As the name suggests, breakfast “breaks” the overnight “fast”. When we eat breakfast we replenish glucose, protein, and many other nutrients that our bodies need to help keep us alert and focused during the day. - Supports Brain Function
Nutrients like protein and carbohydrates are essential for cognitive performance and can even improve cognition. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to increase concentration and problem-solving skills. - Improves Mood
Studies have shown that consistent blood sugar levels can improve mood and reduce stress. - Aides in Weight Management
Consuming a balanced breakfast helps to boost our metabolism and reduce cravings later in the day.
- Boosts Energy
Now that I’ve talked about the benefits of breakfast, I want to address a very real point. When talking with clients I often hear of challenges that make getting a healthy breakfast difficult. As a mom of two little ones, I completely empathize and understand how busy mornings can be. So, I created a list of tips to overcome some of these hurdles:
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- Time Constraints
Plan ahead by making some grab-and-go breakfasts like overnight oats, boiled eggs, breakfast burritos, or granola bars/protein shakes. - Lack of Appetite
Start small by consuming a glass of orange juice or a piece of toast. After you feel comfortable with this then gradually increase to a meal with 2-4 food groups for a more balanced breakfast. - Limited Options
Stock your pantry/fridge with a few easy breakfast options that you know you like. Examples could include english muffin with peanut butter, smoothie, oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, boiled egg, power bites, etc..
- Time Constraints
I challenge you this month to think outside the box for breakfast. Use the list below to branch out and try a new breakfast idea—you might surprise yourself with what you like!
| Breakfast Item | Sweet Ingredients | Savory Ingredients |
| Oatmeal/Gritts | Fruit, cinnamon, nuts, maple syrup, coconut, basil | Cheese, onions, shrimp, bacon, egg, rosemary, thyme, cayenne, sausage |
| Yogurt | Fruit, granola, coconut, dark chocolate, peanut butter, basil, mint | Pistachios, tomatoes, chia seeds, olive oil, chickpeas, pesto |
| English Muffin/Toast | Fruit, peanut butter, Nutella, bananas, jelly, honey | Smoked salmon, avocado, mushrooms, bacon, tomatoes, cream cheese, eggs |
| Pancakes/Crepes | Fruit, yogurt, fruit syrups, maple syrup, Nutella, peanut butter | Eggs, plantains, bacon crumbles, mushrooms, potato pancakes |
| Muffins | Fruit, cinnamon, lemon, honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, matcha, chocolate, mint | Cheese, tomatoes, olives, zucchini, nuts & seeds, eggs, spinach, sweet potato, beans |
| Smoothies | Fruit, yogurt, peanut butter, honey, coconut, chocolate, lime/lemon, matcha, mint, basil | Carrots, ginger, seeds & nuts, spinach, kale, avocado, tofu, beets |
Serving as Corporate Dietician at Ecumen, Toni Swanson is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board-Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition with over a decade of experience working with older adults in long-term care and community settings. With a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for aging populations, Toni blends her clinical expertise in nutrition with a growing passion for clinical herbalism to support holistic well-being.
Joy In Motion
Joy In Motion
A volunteer turns gratitude into action through leadership and generosity.
By Melody Royse | April 13, 2026
SHOREVIEW, MN (April 13, 2026) — Marcia Kull is a volunteer, a donor, and is passionate about creating a more active and joyful lifestyle for the people we serve. Marcia’s connection to Ecumen began when her aunt (also named Marcia) and uncle lived at our Ecumen Pathstone community in Mankato. Every week she was in awe of the people who work there, their level of professionalism and dedication to enhancing life-honoring care.
Her remarkable Aunt Marcia, farm wife turned global tourist agent, became a memory care volunteer at Pathstone while her husband John, who had Alzheimer’s, was a resident. Eventually, Aunt Marcia needed assisted living care, so she made her way back to Ecumen Pathstone. Marcia and her sister would take their aunt to Sibley Park, where they had played as kids. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she celebrated her 93rd birthday outside the window with signs, dogs, balloons and a unicycle. With her hair styled, and makeup done by caring team members, Aunt Marcia was glowing and celebrated in style!
When Aunt Marcia passed away in 2020, Ecumen team members sent personal notes of condolence to Marcia and her family, and it was clear she was beloved by many. Because of her uncle and aunt’s phenomenal experience at Pathstone, Marcia wanted to give back to Ecumen in a way that would honor them both. This encouraged her to take on a new role in her retirement as an Ecumen hospice volunteer where she could visit, play games, and talk about life. She felt connected to this community that focused on the wellbeing of patients.
When Marcia learned about the community’s need for a trishaw bike (a three-wheeled bike that can carry passengers), she knew she wanted to give in support of bringing mobility and fun to Ecumen Pathstone and to encourage resident visits to the beauty of Sibley Park. Later, Marcia became an Ecumen hospice volunteer to support seniors and their families, just like she was supported years earlier.
She has continued to volunteer at Ecumen on the Board of Trustees and has served as the chair since June of 2025. As Marcia says, “This is a very exciting time for Ecumen, as Cyrus Batheja takes the helm as our new CEO in Ecumen’s 164 year history. Technology and how people want to be served is changing how and where we want to age with dignity and support. With our enduring commitment to innovation, Ecumen continues to explore ways to expand and enhance our service to seniors and their families consistent with our mission and values, all delivered with love, dignity and support.”
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 4: Feel Good With Healthy Habits
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 4
By: Toni Swanson | March 31, 2026
As we wrap up National Nutrition Month, this year’s theme— “Discover the Power of Nutrition”—reminds us that healthy habits go beyond what’s on our plate. The choices we make each day can help us feel our best, reduce stress, and support long‑term wellbeing. This week, we’re focusing on simple routines that make everyday living healthier and more enjoyable.
Feel Good With Healthy Habits
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- Practice safe food handling at home
Good nutrition starts with food safety. Washing hands and surfaces, cooking foods to the proper temperature, keeping raw and cooked foods separate, and storing leftovers safely all help reduce the risk of foodborne illness. - Plan ahead to ease mealtime stress
A little preparation—such as planning meals for the week, prepping ingredients, or keeping a few go‑to staples on hand—can make mealtime smoother and more enjoyable. Small steps can save time and help prevent last‑minute food decisions that feel overwhelming. - Move your body in ways that work for you
Physical activity doesn’t have to be intense or complicated. Enjoy a walk, try gentle stretching, dance to your favorite music, or choose activities that fit your abilities and bring you joy. Every bit of movement adds up to better physical and emotional health.
- Practice safe food handling at home
✨ Team Member Spotlight: Cassandra Pedersen
Cassandra Pedersen is our dedicated Registered Dietitian at Ecumen St. Benedict’s in St. Cloud, and we are so grateful to have her as part of our Ecumen team. She has been with Ecumen for a little over two years now, but her connection to St. Benedict’s goes back much further. When St. Benedict’s joined the Ecumen family, we were incredibly fortunate to welcome Cassandra and the deep expertise she brings.
Cassandra has spent most of her career working with older adults and brings a thoughtful, resident centered approach to everything she does. She has seen a great deal of change at her site over the years and always meets it with grace. Cassandra is continually looking for opportunities to improve current practices, making them more efficient, effective, and supportive of resident wellbeing.
This week, she is sharing energy ball recipes. She says that she loves having these on-hand for when she is running short on time and needs a quick balanced snack. Feel free to customize them any way to meet your current goals or flavor profile—ENJOY!
Serving as Corporate Dietician at Ecumen, Toni Swanson is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board-Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition with over a decade of experience working with older adults in long-term care and community settings. With a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for aging populations, Toni blends her clinical expertise in nutrition with a growing passion for clinical herbalism to support holistic well-being.
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 3: Stay Nourished on Any Budget
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 3
By: Toni Swanson | March 23, 2026
We’re continuing to celebrate National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme—“Discover the Power of Nutrition”—reminds us that healthy eating is possible for everyone, regardless of budget or resources. This week’s focus is all about practical, affordable ways to stay nourished and support your wellbeing.
Stay Nourished on Any Budget
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- Build cooking and meal prep skills that fit your resources
Simple techniques like batch cooking, using pantry staples, and making the most of seasonal or on sale ingredients can stretch your budget while still supporting balanced, flavorful meals. - Explore community resources
Programs such as SNAP, WIC, farmers market incentives, and local food banks can help families access nutritious foods. These services exist to support individuals and communities—and they make a meaningful difference. - Support nutrition efforts in your community
Staying informed about local programs, speaking up for access to nutritious foods, and sharing available resources with friends and neighbors all help strengthen community health. Small actions can create big ripple effects.
- Build cooking and meal prep skills that fit your resources
✨ Team Member Spotlight: Rita Janda
Rita Janda is our outstanding Dining Specialist at Ecumen Pathstone in Mankato, and we are honored to feature her for Week 3. She holds her Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) credential and expertly manages all of the clinical nutrition work for both the SNF and TCU. Rita has been part of the Ecumen family for over 40 years, and during that time she has held nearly every role within the culinary department—making her one of the most well rounded and knowledgeable team members we have.
Rita is an extraordinary leader whose experience, dedication, and deep understanding of Ecumen truly shine through in everything she does. With her extensive background, she navigates the ups and downs of daily operations with ease and grace. She is also a dear friend to many, offering support, perspective, and a wealth of history that only someone with her breadth of experience can share.
We are grateful for the wisdom, stability, and heart she brings to Pathstone and to our broader Ecumen team. This week she is sharing her garlic herb shrimp recipe with us!
Serving as Corporate Dietician at Ecumen, Toni Swanson is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board-Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition with over a decade of experience working with older adults in long-term care and community settings. With a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for aging populations, Toni blends her clinical expertise in nutrition with a growing passion for clinical herbalism to support holistic well-being.
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 2
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 2
By: Toni Swanson | March 16, 2026
We’re continuing our month‑long celebration of National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme—“Discover the Power of Nutrition”—reminds us that good health begins with reliable, science‑backed information. With so much nutrition noise online, it can be hard to know what (or who) to trust. That’s why Week 2 is all about finding guidance rooted in evidence—not trends.
Find Advice Backed by Science
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- Seek accurate, credible nutrition sources
Stick to information from organizations grounded in research, such as registered dietitians, national health agencies, academic institutions, and peer reviewed publications. - Meet with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who understands your needs
RDNs are trained to translate the science into practical recommendations—and to tailor it specifically to your age, health conditions, cultural/personal preferences, and lifestyle. They are also great at holding accountability and keeping you on track to meet your goals. - Watch for nutrition “red flags”
Be cautious of advice that sounds too good to be true—like quick fixes, extreme restrictions, miracle “detoxes,” or anything that eliminates entire food groups without medical need. Claims that rely on testimonials instead of science, use fear based messaging, or promote purchasing the company’s products as the solution are also signs to proceed with caution.
- Seek accurate, credible nutrition sources
✨ Team Member Spotlight: Sue North
Susan North is our amazing Dietitian at Ecumen Lakeshore in Duluth, and she has been a huge asset to our team for a little over four years. She will be retiring this spring, and while we will miss her greatly, we are incredibly excited for her as she enters this next chapter. Sue is our go to expert in diabetes education and brings a depth of experience and wisdom that strengthens our entire team. She has a truly special way of connecting with residents—advocating for their needs, taking time to listen, and ensuring they feel supported. Sue is also always looking for ways to improve processes and enhance the quality of care across her community.
This week, she’s highlighting a favorite recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili from the American Heart Association—a delicious, heart healthy dish we hope you’ll enjoy trying at home!
Serving as Corporate Dietician at Ecumen, Toni Swanson is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board-Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition with over a decade of experience working with older adults in long-term care and community settings. With a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for aging populations, Toni blends her clinical expertise in nutrition with a growing passion for clinical herbalism to support holistic well-being.