National Assisted Living Week — “Inspiring Generations”

At the heart of every senior living community lies the promise of connection, growth, and the celebration of life's joys. At Watermark Retirement Communities, our assisted living neighborhoods are so much more than just places to live — they are where caregivers, residents, families, and the local community come together as an extended family. As we approach the 2024 National Assisted Living Week (NALW) from September 8-14, we're thrilled to embrace this year's theme, "Inspiring Generations." This special week is overflowing with the stories of relationships that blossom within our communities, highlighting how we're not just supporting our seniors but actively enriching their lives and the lives of those around them.

National Assisted Living Week, now in its 30th year, celebrates the vital role of assisted living in enhancing the lives of America's seniors and individuals with disabilities. It's a time when our communities — residents, families, associates, and volunteers — come together to honor the resilience and spirit of our senior living environments. This year’s theme encourages us to reflect on the daily inspiration provided by our residents and associates, whose exchange of wisdom, laughter, and lessons enriches our understanding of the past and illuminates our shared future.

The Importance of Intergenerational Relationships

At Watermark, we recognize that the bonds formed between generations are more than mere interactions — they are vital connections that foster mutual growth, understanding, and joy. These intergenerational relationships form the core of our ethos and offer substantial benefits to both young and old.

Enhanced Mental Health for Seniors

Engaging with younger generations brings a rejuvenating spirit that can significantly impact the mental health of our seniors. Many believe that seniors who participate in intergenerational activities may experience a noticeable reduction in loneliness and depression. The simple joy of sharing a story, a smile, or a lesson with a younger person breathes new life into their daily routines and rekindles a sense of purpose and belonging.

Empathy and Understanding in Younger Generations

For children and young adults, interactions with seniors open a window to the past and provide a different perspective on life. These relationships cultivate empathy and understanding as young people learn to appreciate the wisdom and resilience of the older generations. Hearing about these life experiences can help younger generations gain insight that shapes their views on life and their role in the community.

Sharing of Wisdom and Experiences

One of the most beautiful aspects of intergenerational bonding is sharing wisdom and experiences. Seniors have a lifetime of knowledge and stories that, when passed down, enrich the lives of the younger generation. This exchange preserves valuable cultural and personal histories and instills important life lessons and values. Our commitment to nurturing these relationships is reflected in the array of programming Watermark communities offer, designed to bring different generations together in meaningful and enriching ways.

Intergenerational Programs in Our Communities

At Watermark, we believe in the transformative power of connection across generations. Our intergenerational programs are thoughtfully designed to foster these meaningful interactions, helping bridge the gap between the young and the young at heart. Here are some of the initiatives that exemplify our commitment to this cause.

Pen Pal Programs

The simple act of exchanging letters can form profound connections, and our Pen Pal Programs are a testament to this. Members at The Hacienda at the Canyon® teamed up with local third graders learning cursive. What began as a lesson in penmanship blossomed into a beautiful exchange of life stories.

Similarly, Rockland Place enjoyed a vibrant intergenerational visit from students at Wilmington Friends School. The day was filled with lively activities and heartfelt conversations, proving that genuine connections are not bound by age.

Art Classes

Creativity knows no age limits, and our art classes at The Watermark at Cherry Hills are a perfect example. Residents and children came together to create art, blending their perspectives and talents to produce stunning masterpieces. These collaborative projects generate beautiful artworks and build lasting bonds and shared memories among participants. 

Performance Arts

The magic of performance arts has a unique way of uniting people, and our communities regularly host talented young performers who bring energy and joy to our residents. Earlier this year, Rose Tree Place celebrated St. Patrick's Day in style with a spirited dance performance by McDade-Cara School of Irish Dance students.

These diverse events help enrich our residents' lives and offer young participants invaluable insights and life lessons. Each interaction, whether through letters, art, or performance, helps strengthen community bonds and fosters a spirit of mutual respect and admiration across generations.

Residents Making a Difference

Watermark residents embody a spirit of generosity and a commitment to nurturing the next generation. Through various initiatives and programs, they demonstrate their passion for giving back to the community and making a significant impact.

Back-to-School Supply Drives

Every year, as the school season approaches, many of our residents participate actively in back-to-school supply drives. The Hacienda at Georgetown™ partners with The Georgetown Project, a local nonprofit focused on positive youth development. The community collects essential school supplies and backpacks, supported by our members who generously contribute to this cause. 

Similarly, The Watermark at Rosewood Gardens collaborates with Asbury United Methodist Church and other local organizations to assemble and distribute back-to-school backpacks. This initiative supports local children's educational needs and strengthens the bond between our community and the broader public.

Watermark for Kids

Watermark for Kids is our heart-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children to reach their full potential by overcoming barriers to success. Since its inception in 2007, Watermark for Kids has made a profound impact, assisting over 2,800 children nationwide. Our residents play a crucial role in organizing fundraisers and activities that support this noble cause, helping to provide financial assistance for education, sports, arts, and wellness programs.

Through their involvement, Watermark residents help children, regardless of their background, have access to life-enhancing opportunities. Watermark for Kids prides itself on ensuring that 86% of every dollar donated goes directly to supporting the kids, with over $1.15 million raised to date.

Our residents' efforts highlight their dedication to their immediate community and the broader societal goal of nurturing future leaders. Through these actions, they truly make a lasting difference, inspiring others and paving the way for future generations to thrive.

The Role of Our Compassionate Associates

Watermark associates are at the heart of everything we do, embodying compassion in every interaction. Their steadfast commitment is crucial in delivering exceptional care to our residents and fostering the vibrant dynamics of intergenerational initiatives.

Our associates are instrumental in creating and nurturing connections that bridge the gap between generations. They organize and facilitate a variety of programs that allow residents and young people to come together, share experiences, and learn from each other. Whether through Watermark University classes, events, programs, and outings, these initiatives are enriched by our associates' careful guidance and enthusiastic support.

They inspire residents and the broader community daily through their heartfelt care and creative engagement. They are not just caregivers but life enhancers who understand the profound impact a nurturing environment can have on overall wellness. By fostering an atmosphere where meaningful relationships can flourish, they ensure that everyone feels valued and connected regardless of age. Our associates demonstrate that they are not only supporting a community — they are building one filled with empathy, learning, and mutual respect.