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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. 

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.