A holistic approach to improve quality of life
By Emily Atherton, Director of Facility and Resident Care, MacLeod Riverside Court
We are off to a busy start in 2025 at MacLeod’s Riverside Court. Building-wide renovations are nearing an end, and our new Memory Care unit is now full with a growing waitlist.
This month, we are proud to be reflecting on and celebrating the importance of the Therapeutic Recreation programs we offer and their critical role in creating holistic and meaningful opportunities for social, mental and physical engagement for all those living at “the big yellow house.”
Our full-time Activity Director, Amber McHatten-Clowes, who began her role in 2017, develops and delivers social recreation programming daily that aims to create opportunities for reduced social isolation, encourages residents to connect with others who have similar interests and hobbies, improves or maintains cognitive and physical health, elevates mood and confidence while focusing on individual strengths.
Amber gets to know residents by meeting with them and/or their families and reading through Resident Profiles within the first few weeks of the individual moving into the building, allowing her to tailor and change up activity offerings based on the interests of the ever-evolving resident base. Amber stated, “I love that no two days are ever the same because there is so much versatility and flexibility in my role; from group activities to one-on-ones, outings and events, there really is something for everyone.”
Activities occur in various locations within the building and around the community to ensure all residents, from independent living to Memory Care, can participate across the week. We rely on dedicated volunteers and community members who give their time freely to enhance and support our programming. Current fan favourites include Bingo, Knitting Club, exercise, crafts, spiritual and worship services, and the monthly Birthday social hour featuring the Woodstock Ukulele Group for entertainment.
Recently, we had the opportunity to have some intergenerational fun with students from Townsview School who sang, read books, and recited rhymes to the residents. We hope to continue more of these interactions. When asked what her favourite thing about her role is, Amber stated, “Probably the times that I get to spend one-on-one with a resident as you can learn so much about someone and really build a strong bond. We are blessed to become part of our residents’ extended family, and although they may not realize it, they are such a big part of our lives as well.”
We extend our gratitude to all those who work in Therapeutic Recreation, not only at Riverside but also around our community and province. Your dedication and compassion bring joy, comfort and a sense of belonging to those with whom you work, creating moments of care and laughter while making a significant difference in their lives.
