Atria Park

"It felt wonderful to share my recipe and the stories associated with it with my fellow residents," shares Shirley. "It was a great way to connect with everyone, reminisce about the old memories and bond over our shared love of cooking." Residents of Atria Park of Vintage Hills pulled out their favorite cookbooks and recipe cards for a program about food and personal history. Shirley shared her grandmother's butterscotch pie recipe and in turn, she learned about some of her friends' favorite recipes like Greek dolmades. "Programs like this are my favorite part of living in the community," Shirley adds. "There's always something to look forward to. Whether it's participating in group activities, celebrating milestones together, or simply engaging in everyday conversations, these moments become cherished memories." We'd like copies of those recipes, please!

"It was incredible to learn about all the things Denver the dog is capable of doing. It was great to see him in action," shares Ruth, a resident of Atria Park of Ann Arbor. "He knows so many commands that support Colin through his days." Residents learned about service dogs from Colin and Paws With A Cause ®. Learning about how people with disabilities use accessibility tools, like service dogs, is just one of many educational programs hosted in the community. While some residents were unfamiliar with service dogs' abilities, Ruth has experience supporting people with accessibility needs. "I worked for the State of Michigan as a social worker and had many clients with service dogs to help them. However, what was unique about this program were the details Colin provided about the training the service dogs undergo before being assigned to their owners. They go through a lot of training to receive that title!" Ruth adds, "I like to continue my education, so I enjoy coming to these types of programs. I think it's good to learn new things!" Thanks, Colin and Denver! 🐾

"Dear friend, My name is Nick. What is your name?" begins a letter from a local first-grader. This is just one of many letters exchanged between students from a local elementary school and the residents of Atria Park of Ann Arbor. "I like my pen pal's questions. He is so insightful for a six-year-old," shares Shirley, one of the residents. "One of the highlights of my week is receiving his letters. This cross-generational program builds community relationships and enriches the lives of everyone involved. "I think this is a wonderful learning opportunity for the children, because it helps them to realize that older people can still have fun," Shirley adds. After months of exchanging letters, residents and students met via Zoom for an end-of-the-school-year celebration. The residents wished the class the best of luck in second-grade.

Puppies! Do we need to say more? Atria Park of Vintage Hills threw a "pawty" for National Puppy Day, inviting resident pets, therapy dogs and other friendly doggos to enjoy treats, belly rubs and lots of ear scratches. It looks like a barkin' good time! 🐶

It's National Best Friends Day! When Betty met Mo at Atria Park of Glen Ellyn, they instantly clicked! Since then, these best friends can be found at community programs and laughing together. "What a blessing the friendship is that developed between Mo and Betty. To find a new best friend at 86 is something we all hope to have at that age!" shares Lisa, Mo's daughter-in-law. "Mo tells me she loves Atria on a daily basis," Lisa adds. #NationalBestFriendsDay

"Embracing the wisdom and grace that come with age has opened my heart to a new perspective, inspiring me to celebrate life in all its stages," shares Atria Park of Vintage Hills resident and poet, Catherine. "Discovering the beauty in aging has been a profound inspiration for my poetry." As stylish as she is clever, Catherine's writing is infused with humor and honesty that transcends age and speaks to the truth of being human. "Instead of viewing getting older as a burden, I've found joy in every moment and experience," she says. Aging gracefully can mean many things to many people, but Catherine shares that she focuses on prioritizing staying active, nurturing relationships, cultivating interests, adapting to change, seeking purpose, and practicing self-compassion. "You can age gracefully and live a fulfilling life at any stage," she added.

We love seeing the great friendships that are formed in our communities! Janet and John, known around Atria Park of Vintage Hills as J & J, have built a friendship through shared interests like karaoke, classic literature and enjoying community programs. Their laughter echoes through the halls creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere in their community, proving that meaningful friendships can blossom at any stage of life.

"Live with purpose, stay positive and embrace each day with gratitude. Cherish relationships, stay active and never stop learning. A fulfilling life is a journey of joy, resilience and meaningful connections." These are the very wise words of Roger, who recently celebrated a major milestone, his 101st birthday! From his time at Atria Park of Vintage Hills, he shares he most treasures the camaraderie he has found. "It's wonderful being surrounded by friends who share similar life experiences, creating a supportive and enjoyable environment." Happy birthday, Roger! 🎉

Resident spotlight! ⭐️ Adair, a cherished resident of Atria Park of Vintage Hills for 10 years, treasures the camaraderie and shared experiences that make senior living fulfilling. "I've cultivated meaningful friendships in our community over the years. Building lasting friendships involves shared activities, genuine conversations and mutual support," Adair explains. "In my time at Atria, these connections deepened, creating a supportive and enjoyable social network." Her advice for those considering senior living is to embrace new opportunities and cherish relationships. She adds, "The secret to living the best life in a senior community is staying active, fostering connections and maintaining a positive mindset. Embrace opportunities for social engagement and continue to explore new interests for a fulfilling and vibrant lifestyle!"

Atria Park of Ann Arbor celebrated a remarkable milestone as Miss Lucy turned 99! Fittingly, 99 guests joined the party, including her Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc sisters, community employees, and Lucy's family, all wearing her sorority's colors of red and white. Lucy said the highlight of her party was when the multiple generations of sorority sisters encircled her, singing the "Delta Sweetheart Song." Cheers to Miss Lucy!