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This Spiritual Care Week, we are proud to honor the compassionate presence of Sister Janelle Sietsema, Chaplain and Benedictine Sister of St. Joseph, MN. For over 11 years, Sister Janelle has been a steady and comforting presence within our Ecumen St. Benedict’s community in St. Cloud, offering more than spiritual care; she offers connection, compassion, and a ministry of presence. A true creative spirit, her favorite hobby is making handmade greeting cards, which many of our residents have received over the years, signed by staff and filled with heartfelt messages.

Each day in her role looks a little different, but always with a focus on presence and service. Whether she’s updating communion lists for Eucharistic Ministers, assisting with meals, escorting residents to Mass or activities, or simply sitting at a bedside, Sister Janelle’s work is rooted in attentiveness. Her visits are often timely in ways that surprise even her. “I love it when people tell me my visit was just what they needed at that moment,” she says. “I don’t think it’s just by chance. I believe God is using me.” She also makes it a priority to connect with team members, offering support during personal crises or family losses, another quiet but powerful part of her ministry.

Sister Janelle’s journey into chaplaincy began with a foundation in theology, earning a degree in Pastoral Ministry and a Master of Divinity, and serving in parish roles before discovering her true calling in one-on-one spiritual care. Unlike parish work, where much of her time was spent organizing programs and recruiting volunteers, chaplaincy allows her to engage in the heart of what drew her to ministry in the first place: sharing her faith and listening to others speak about their relationship with God. One moment that stands out to her involved being with a man and his family during his final moments. The man, a friend of her Benedictine community, passed away while they prayed together, an experience she describes as an “honor to be there with them and for them at that time.”

What makes spiritual care at Ecumen unique, Sister Janelle says, is the diversity of the residents. Unlike her previous ministry settings that primarily served Catholics, Ecumen provides her with the opportunity to meet individuals from all walks of faith or none at all. “It gives residents a chance to talk about themselves, not just where it hurts or their pain level,” she shares. With the support of a priest on staff, residents also have easy access to sacraments like Mass, Anointing, and Reconciliation, which further enriches the spiritual environment here. Beyond that, Ecumen’s team-based culture allows chaplains like Sister Janelle to work closely with other departments, lending a hand wherever needed, from food service to life enrichment. Truly embodying a holistic approach to care.

To Sister Janelle, Spiritual Care Week is an important recognition, not just for her, but for all who serve in this vital field. “Other departments have recognition weeks as well—I wouldn’t want ours to be left out,” she says with a smile. She believes spiritual care is particularly essential in senior living communities, where residents can face isolation due to loss of mobility, hearing or sight, and technological barriers that make staying in touch with loved ones difficult. “Some wonder, ‘Why hasn’t God taken me?’” she says. “Personal visits sometimes take the edge off the loneliness.”

A misconception about chaplaincy she often addresses is the idea that chaplains are there to evangelize. In truth, the heart of her ministry is presence and deep listening. “Our purpose is not to convert people who’ve left their church,” she explains. “It’s to meet people where they’re at in their faith journey and assure them of God’s presence. We are primarily listeners.”

Sister Janelle lives by the words of St. Benedict: “All shall be treated as Christ.” This guiding principle is woven through her daily work and interactions. She stays grounded through structured prayer and community life with the Sisters of St. Joseph, drawing strength and renewal from both personal and communal spirituality. For those considering a path in chaplaincy, her advice is simple but profound: “Listen. Listen with your heart and mind. If you are being called, God will guide you and help pave the way.”  

This week, and every week, we are deeply grateful for Sister Janelle’s service, presence, and the many quiet ways she brings light to our community. Her ministry is a powerful reminder that spiritual care is not just a role—it’s a calling. As we celebrate Spiritual Care Week, we also extend our heartfelt thanks to all Ecumen chaplains who faithfully walk alongside residents, families, and staff, offering comfort, connection, and hope. Your work touches lives in ways seen and unseen, and we are honored to recognize and celebrate each of you.

Recently, something unexpected and heartwarming unfolded right in the front lobby of Ecumen Lakeview Commons, and it all started with a surprise guest on four legs.

A family member had just arrived to visit her grandma when a small, sweet dog darted in through the front doors alongside her. The pup didn’t belong to her, or to anyone we knew, and she wasn’t wearing a collar. Still, it was clear she had been well cared for and was likely someone’s beloved pet who had somehow slipped away from home.

Our Lakeview Commons team and residents immediately offered comfort (and, of course, treats), and the friendly little dog was more than happy to soak up the attention. While we kept her safe and warm, one of our wonderful nurses, Tenzin, quickly sprang into action. He turned to local social media, checking the Nextdoor app for any mention of a missing dog. Sure enough, he found a post about a missing French Bulldog named Sophie.

Her owners, Oakdale residents Joe and Yulia, were urgently searching for her and had even offered a reward to help bring Sophie home. Tenzin called the number in the post, and within minutes, Joe and Yulia were on their way to Lakeview Commons.

As you can imagine, our lobby was filled with excitement, hugs, and even a few happy tears as Sophie was reunited with her very relieved family. It turns out Sophie had traveled nearly three miles from home, frightened and cold on a crisp fall day, before finding warmth, safety, and lots of love right here with us.

Sophie is one of three Frenchies in Joe and Yulia’s home, and they were beyond grateful to have her back. As for the reward? No one here wanted to accept it. We were simply happy to have helped and to see a happy ending. But in an incredibly generous gesture, Joe and Yulia chose to donate the reward to Ecumen Lakeview Commons to support future life enrichment activities and events for our residents.

And perhaps the best part? In addition to helping a lost pup find her way home, we made some new friends, and maybe even gained a few new furry volunteers. We’d be absolutely delighted to welcome Joe, Yulia, and their pups back to Lakeview Commons anytime.

It’s moments like these that remind us how much joy and connection can come from simple acts of kindness, and from keeping our doors (and hearts) open.

If you step into Ecumen President and CEO, Shelley Kendrick’s office, one of the first things you’ll notice is a vibrant, abstract painting hanging on the wall. At first glance, it might look like a piece from a modern art gallery, but the real beauty lies in the story behind it.

The painting wasn’t created by a professional artist. It was lovingly crafted by residents living in memory care at Ecumen Prairie Lodge as part of an engaging and inclusive art activity. Some used their fingers to paint, others used brushes, whatever worked best for their abilities. Team members stood close by, offering help and encouragement where needed. Once the painting was finished, the team had it professionally mounted on a frame, turning it into something truly special.

The artwork was later put up for auction at a 2012 Ecumen fundraising event in Minneapolis. At the time, Kendrick had only been with Ecumen for a month or two. But the painting, and the story behind it struck a deep chord with her.

“I felt that painting needed to stay at Ecumen,” Kendrick recalls. “It was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.”

She placed a bid of $200 and won!

Since then, that painting has followed her from office to office, becoming more than just decoration. It’s a daily symbol of connection, compassion, and purpose. It reminds us that even small moments of creativity and joy can leave lasting impressions.

Shelley plans to leave the painting behind when she retires, ensuring that it remains part of Ecumen’s story for years to come.

Because sometimes, a simple canvas can carry the heart of an entire mission.  

After more than a decade of visionary leadership, Ecumen President & CEO Shelley Kendrick has announced her retirement, effective the first quarter of 2026.

Kendrick joined Ecumen in 2012 and steadily advanced through a variety of leadership roles before being named President & CEO in 2019. Under her leadership, Ecumen expanded its reach, strengthened its commitment to innovation in senior services, and guided the organization through some of the most challenging times in healthcare history, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It has been a privilege and an honor to do the work we do, to walk alongside people as they navigate aging, and to work with some of the most talented and compassionate team members,” Kendrick said.

Among Kendrick’s many accomplishments are:

• Leading the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic with transparency and compassion
• Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of Ecumen
• Expanding home and community-based services, positioning Ecumen as a leader in whole-person care
• Investing in team development and workforce innovation, making Ecumen one of the most respected senior services providers in the country

Her impact has reached far beyond the organization. Kendrick has served on numerous industry boards, advocated for aging services at the state and national level, and mentored the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Ecumen Board Chair Marcia Kull has announced that a committee of the Board of Trustees will oversee the search process for Kendrick’s successor. “Shelley’s unwavering dedication to Ecumen’s mission has left an indelible mark not only on our organization, but also on the thousands of lives we serve,” Kull said. “With a commitment to quality, innovation and service, she has strategically expanded the business and streamlined other business lines to position the organization well for the next 160 years.” 

In the coming months, Kendrick will continue to work with the Ecumen team to ensure a smooth transition.

“As Shelley begins a new chapter, we thank her for her incredible service, leadership, and vision,” said Kull. “Her legacy will live on in every life touched by Ecumen.” 

Early in 2024, a group of residents at Chateau Waters, an Ecumen Living Space, began gathering weekly to knit, crochet, and enjoy each other’s company. What began as a simple social gathering quickly evolved into something deeper—an act of service and spiritual connection that reached far beyond the walls of their building.

Among the group was Suann Nichols, a resident who had recently moved into the community. Suann had previously been involved in the Prayer Shawl Ministry at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Minneapolis. She posed a thoughtful question to the group: would they be interested in making prayer shawls for the spiritual care ministry at Chateau Waters’ sister community, Ecumen St. Benedict’s Community in St. Cloud?

The answer was a resounding yes.

Using patterns from Suann’s church, with permission, the women began crafting shawls with intention and care, often praying for the future recipients as they worked. Yarn came from personal collections, new purchases, and donations from other residents. A bag of red yarn that had been sitting unused became three beautiful red shawls. Each stitch was filled with purpose.

This knitting group had quietly begun forming months earlier. In November, during the community’s Holiday Bazaar, residents displayed handmade items for sale—embroidered kitchen towels, crocheted potholders, and more. What surprised organizers was how many knitters and crocheters had been working privately in their apartments, stepping out for the first time to share their talents. That realization led to the creation of a regular meet-up, Tuesdays at 2:00. The very first meeting drew 11 residents, all arriving with yarn, needles, and stories to share.

As the prayer shawl project gained momentum, the residents became passionate about finding meaningful homes for their finished items. By March and April, they had completed 17 shawls. On June 20, 2025, the group brought them to Ecumen St. Benedict’s Community for a formal blessing.

They were warmly welcomed by Janelle Sietsema, OSB, Chaplain at Ecumen St. Benedict’s, along with Betsy Horsch, Life Enrichment Supervisor, and several residents. Each shawl was delivered with a note from the maker, including their name and a personal message. The outside of the envelope was left blank so the recipient’s name could be added later. 

The shawls were received with prayer and a blessing with holy water. The ceremony was touching, but it was the gathering afterward—over cookies and lemonade—that truly revealed the heart of the project. What had started as a gift-giving mission had become something even more powerful: a bridge between two communities, built on compassion, shared faith, and the common thread of creativity.

And the work didn’t stop there. 

After the shawl project, the group turned their attention to another need: warm hats and scarves for the Salvation Army. Resident Jean Anderson suggested reaching out, and the organization gratefully accepted the offer, specifically requesting adult items for men. The residents of Chateau Waters are now hard at work building a new inventory for this effort, which will continue through fall. 

After that, they’ll return to creating pieces for the Holiday Bazaar in November, a full circle that ties together purpose, fellowship, and the joy of making something with love. 

This group of knitters and crocheters has done more than craft beautiful items. They’ve created meaningful connections, strengthened community bonds, and demonstrated the incredible impact of small acts of kindness woven together over time. 

At Ecumen, we believe that a senior living community is more than just a place to live. It is where stories unfold, connections are rekindled, and meaningful moments happen every day. A recent move-in at The Madison at Ecumen Detroit Lakes is a perfect example of that spirit.

Fred and his wife Karen were living in Arizona when they decided it was time to return to Minnesota. Originally from Moorhead, where they lived in the 1960s, they wanted to be closer to family and find a welcoming place to call home. Unable to travel for a visit, their adult son toured The Madison, the independent living portion of the Detroit Lakes campus, on their behalf. He was impressed by the warmth of the team, the layout of the community, and the sense of home he felt right away.

To help with their decision, Charlie Newland, Ecumen Detroit Lakes Senior Living Consultant, stepped in to support the process as he does with all tours and inquiries. Knowing how important it was for Fred and Karen to feel confident about their choice from a distance, their son recorded and sent a personalized video tour of the apartment, helping bring the space to life for them while they were still in Arizona.

“Even though they were hundreds of miles away, we wanted Fred and Karen to feel like they were already part of the community,” said Newland. “Sometimes it’s those extra steps that make all the difference, and I’m grateful to have been a part of their journey back to Minnesota.”

After seeing the videos, Fred and Karen made the decision to reserve the apartment, sight unseen and without knowing anyone in the community. But what happened next was nothing short of remarkable.

Unbeknownst to them, their new apartment was right next door to John, a resident who has lived at Ecumen Detroit Lakes for the past four years. As it turns out, Fred and John were neighbors back in the 1960s in Moorhead. Not only that, but their sons had been close childhood friends. Neither family had any idea they would be reuniting all these years later, and certainly not as next-door neighbors.

This surprise reunion was a heartwarming reminder of the power of community, and it reflects the values that define life at Ecumen. It speaks to the dedication of team members like Charlie, who go above and beyond to make every family feel supported. And it celebrates the kind of meaningful connections that make The Madison feel like home. 

We are thrilled to welcome Fred and Karen back to Minnesota, and even more thrilled to see their story come full circle in such an unforgettable way.

Ecumen Lakeview Commons has received the 2025 Silver – Achievement in Quality Award from the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), marking a major milestone in its commitment to resident care and operational excellence.

The Silver Award is part of AHCA/NCAL’s National Quality Award Program, which recognizes long-term and post-acute care providers that demonstrate strong performance systems and measurable outcomes. Applicants must first achieve the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award before advancing to Silver.  

In 2025, only 209 organizations nationwide received the Silver Award, including a mix of long-term care communities, assisted living communities, and dual-service providers. This selective recognition places Ecumen Lakeview Commons among a national group of leaders in quality improvement and resident-centered care. 

The award is based on the Baldrige Excellence Framework, a nationally recognized model that guides organizations in performance excellence through strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and staff engagement. 

“Achieving this level reflects a purposeful commitment to building better systems for the benefit of residents and staff,” said Cathy Bergland, AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Board Chair.

This achievement highlights Ecumen Lakeview Commons’ ability to not only evaluate and enhance its own practices but also to create lasting improvements in resident experience and community operations.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our team at Ecumen Lakeview Commons,” said Brielle Khalar, Executive Director at Ecumen Lakeview Commons. “This award reflects not only their dedication and compassion, but also their commitment to continually learning, improving, and growing together. Every day, they put both our residents and each other at the heart of what we do – whether it’s through outstanding clinical care, genuine moments of connection, or the behind-the-scenes work that makes it all possible. This recognition affirms the heart, excellence, and hard work they bring to our community to ensure we’re always moving forward.”

The recognition comes as the next step toward the Gold – Excellence in Quality Award, the program’s highest honor, and serves as an important affirmation of the organization’s ongoing pursuit of excellence. 

Ecumen Lakeview Commons will be formally honored during Delivering Solutions 25, the AHCA/NCAL Convention & Expo, taking place October 19-22, 2025, in Las Vegas.

Eight Ecumen communities — Ecumen Litchfield, Ecumen Detroit Lakes, Ecumen Brooks & CountrySide, Ecumen Prairie Hill & Sand Prairie, Ecumen Evergreens of Fargo, and Ecumen Evergreens of Moorhead — have been named 2025 recipients of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL). This national distinction reflects a foundational commitment to enhancing quality of care and service for older adults.

The Bronze Award is the first of three progressive levels in the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program, which recognizes long-term and post-acute care providers for their dedication to excellence and performance improvement. 

“We are honored to see eight of our communities recognized with this meaningful award,” said Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen President and CEO. “At Ecumen, we’re committed to walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate the aging journey — ensuring it’s one filled with purpose, dignity, and trusted support. This award reflects the dedication of our teams who live out that commitment every day.”

Tami Haley, Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing & Operations Officer at Ecumen, added, “These awards underscore the continuous improvement mindset our communities embrace. Congratulations to each team for earning this recognition and for their unwavering commitment to those we serve.”

The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is a comprehensive, three-tiered process that evaluates applicants against the criteria of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. Bronze-level recipients demonstrate a clear understanding of their organization’s purpose, key strengths, and challenges, along with the development of a sustainable performance improvement system.

Each application is thoroughly reviewed by trained examiners who assess whether the organization has met the Bronze level’s rigorous standards. Communities receiving the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award are now eligible to advance to the Silver – Achievement in Quality level.

“We commend this year’s recipients for taking this important first step on their quality journey,” said Clif Porter, president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL. “Their commitment to continuous improvement and resident-centered care reflects the heart of our mission and lays a strong foundation for future excellence.”

Award recipients will be formally honored during Delivering Solutions 25, the AHCA/NCAL Convention & Expo, taking place October 19-22, 2025, in Las Vegas.

Have you ever wondered why ginger feels hot in your mouth or why green tea dries out your tongue? Or maybe why certain foods just feel healing? The answer lies in something deeper than flavor—it’s in how plants interact with your body through taste, action, and phytochemistry.

Let’s break this down in a simple, delicious way.

Primary vs. Secondary Metabolites

Before diving into taste, let’s touch on how plants produce the things we benefit from:

• Primary Metabolites: These are essential for the plant’s survival—things like sugars and proteins that support growth and respiration.
• Secondary Metabolites: These give plants their color, smell, and medicinal properties. Think essential oils, antioxidants, and alkaloids—many of which are used in medicine.

The Power of Taste in Herbal Medicine

Different flavors do more than please your palate. They signal specific actions in the body, and many traditional healing systems (like Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Greek medicine) have long used taste to guide healing.

Let’s explore 10 tastes and what they do in your body—plus which herbs and foods bring them to life.

1. Pungent

Example: Ginger

What you notice: Heat in the mouth

Why: Volatile oils activate warmth

Actions:

• Stimulates digestion and circulation
• Warming and drying
• Increases absorption of nutrients

Fun Fact: Cultures like Indian cuisine heat herbs in oil to release these oils for max flavor and benefit.

2. Sweet

Example: Marshmallow Root or root vegetabales

What you notice: Comforting, satisfying—like mother’s milk

Actions:

• Nutritive: helps restore strength (especially in illness or malnutrition)
• Moisturizing: supports tissue hydration
• Builds tissues (anabolic)

Hot Tip: Cold infusions of marshmallow root bring out soothing mucilage. Warm water pulls out starches.

3. Sour

Example: Lemon Balm or berries

What you notice: Puckering at the back of the mouth

Actions:

• Stimulates appetite and detox pathways
• Anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants
• Promotes saliva and supports heart health

4. Salty/Mineral Salts

Example: Nettles

What you notice: Quick taste that fades fast

Actions:

• Cleansing and softening
• Diuretic (flushes out toxins)
• Conducts energy and nourishes with key minerals

Mineral Highlights:

• Magnesium: muscle relaxation (leafy greens, oats)
• Calcium: bones and muscle function (alfalfa)
• Potassium: electrolyte balance (nettles, dandelion)
• Silica: skin, hair, joints (bamboo)

5. Bitter

Example: Kale or cocoa powder

What you notice: “Yuck” (unless you’re into bitters!)

Actions:

• Stimulates digestion and bile production
• Detoxifies the liver
• Drying effect—helps reduce excess moisture

Pro Tip: Our modern diets are often low in bitters. Adding them can improve digestion and support liver health.

5. Bitter

Example: Kale or cocoa powder

What you notice: “Yuck” (unless you’re into bitters!)

Actions:

• Stimulates digestion and bile production
• Detoxifies the liver
• Drying effect—helps reduce excess moisture

Pro Tip: Our modern diets are often low in bitters. Adding them can improve digestion and support liver health.

7. Acrid

Example: Radish

What you notice: Intense, almost nauseating at first—but can shake off tension

Actions:

• Nervine relaxant: eases nervous digestion (e.g., catnip for kids)
• Tension remedy: helpful for tremors and nervousness

Cool Fact: Hops (yes, in beer!) are acrid too—they’re cooling and great for hot flashes.

8. Nutty

Example: Nuts and seeds

What you notice: Oily, grounding, fatty feel

Actions:

• Nutritive: provides lipids and energy
• Moistening: supports lubrication in digestive pathways
• Anti-inflammatory: rich in Omega-3s and antioxidants

9. Umami (Savory)

Example: Aged cheese, soy sauce

What you notice: Deep, brothy, and satisfying

Actions:

• Nourishes the nervous system
• Supports protein digestion and absorption

10. Moist (Mucilaginous)

Example: Slippery Elm, Okra

What you notice: Slippery or gooey texture

Actions:

• Soothes irritated tissues
• Builds moisture and mucus for protection
• Great for sore throats, dry coughs, or gut irritation

Mindful Eating: Taste with Intention

Taste isn’t just a flavor—it’s a guide. Here’s how to eat with more awareness:

• Tune In: Notice how different foods feel in your mouth and body.
• Balance Tastes: Don’t overdo any one flavor—variety is key.
• Cultural Connection: Use ingredients you love and are familiar with, while exploring new ones.

Sample Meal Planning by Taste

• For Digestion: Focus on bitter and astringent foods (leafy greens, green tea)
• For Energy: Include sweet and sour elements (root veggies, citrus, fermented foods)
• For Reducing Salt: Use flavorful combos of sweet, sour, and bitter instead of excess salt

Who’s Behind These Tastes?

This system of understanding tastes beyond the 5 basic tastes draws from energetics in Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and Greek medicine. Herbalists like David Winston, Matthew Wood, and Ashley Elenbaas continue learning and teaching about these tastes today.

Final Thoughts

Our tongues are more powerful than we think—they’re nature’s diagnostic tools. Learning to recognize and use taste in food and herbs helps us tune into our bodies, support healing, and connect with ancient traditions of wellness.

So next time you take a bite—ask yourself: What do I notice?

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.