Debunking Senior Living Myths

Arrow Senior Living is known for doing things a little differently and challenging the status quo within the industry. It’s just who we are! Even with all the technological conveniences of today such as social media and websites, it is still common to meet individuals with a skewed perception of what senior living looks like. In this blog, I want to share my senior living journey, why I remain committed to the industry, the biggest myth I believe exists, and how to help others overcome the myths surrounding our beautiful Vitalia Solon community and services.

In 1999, I applied for a position at the “Inn at Chappel Creek,” initially thinking it was a lakeside hospitality job. However, I ended up accepting a role in customer relations. Within a few months, I transitioned to become the Executive Director at the first assisted living facility in the area, and from that moment on, I knew I had found my calling. Despite having graduated college years earlier with a degree in social work and sociology, I never imagined I would end up working with older adults. However, once I started, I realized it was where I truly belonged.

I continue to come to work each day because I’m eager to witness the growth the community achieves. No two days are alike, and I thrive on the unpredictable challenges we face and the innovative solutions we devise. Witnessing the team come together to address these challenges and positively impact someone’s life is incredibly rewarding. While our industry may not offer many of the perks seen in other professions, we experience rewards daily.

Transforming Perceptions: Redefining Senior Living as a Vibrant Residential Community

The greatest myth surrounding senior living is the misconception that it’s solely a place for individuals to reside at the end of their lives and that it carries an institutional feel. Unfortunately, these conversations often don’t occur until there’s an immediate need, perpetuating an old-school mentality characterized by sterile white walls and unpleasant odors. Senior living is more akin to a residential, social model than a clinical one.

To overcome this myth, we prioritize listening to residents from the moment they arrive. We engage in conversations to understand their reasons for being here and address any fears they may have. Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment they walk through the front door is crucial, as is demonstrating the compassion and expertise of our staff. Through these efforts, we aim to showcase senior living as a vibrant, supportive community where residents can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

I hope you found this helpful, and I encourage you to share it with others because here at Arrow, we are committed to reshaping the perception of senior living! Search #whatseniorlivinglookslike, and you will find so many great things that happen in our community every single day.