We had something extra special to celebrate over the holidays. Three of our long time, highly-esteemed employees became naturalized U.S. citizens! We were so grateful that they chose to share their special moment with us at our annual resident and staff holiday party in December. Many thanks to the Honorable John J. McConnell, Jr., for taking time out of his busy schedule to do the honors. Judge McConnell has a happy history with us as his mother and his in-laws called Laurelmead home for many years. He turned our great room into an official courtroom to conduct the ceremony. You could feel the emotions rise as Candida Goncalves and sisters Lena and Eva Rosario, took the oath of citizenship. Candida is a 9-year veteran in the Housekeeping Department, and Lena and Eva are the backbone of the Dining Services Department with 37 years of service to Laurelmead between them. “To have my naturalization take place where I have worked for so many years is a memory that my family and I will cherish forever,” says Eva. Lena adds, “Sharing this moment with the residents and my family is very special to me. Thank you Laurelmead.”
Judge McConnell, Candida, Lena, and Eva getting sworn in as U.S. citizens. (One of Eva's children looks on.)
The group shares a smile with Ron Bruno, the Dining Room Manager, after the ceremony.
FALL-PREVENTION WORKSHOP By Joy Twelves, Health & Fitness Committee Chair
Laurelmead’s Health & Fitness Committee, which is made up of residents, sponsored a Fall Prevention Workshop, continuing its year-long effort to focus on safety and preventing falls. We provided a supportive setting where folks could practice balance and strengthening exercises, get tips on how to fall, practice getting up off the floor, try different safety equipment and assistive devices, review medications with a clinical pharmacist, and learn about medical-alert systems. Happily, many residents attended and whole-heartedly participated. I also can’t stress enough how important the support of our wonderful staff is here at Laurelmead. It’s one thing to have a “great idea” for an event but executing it is quite another. All we had to do was ask for something to be done or ask a question and the response was always immediate and cheerful. It was a big de-stressor knowing that support was there. We are more than grateful for them all.
Many residents consulted with Amy, a clinical pharmacist, to see if their medications could cause dizziness.
Kathy Webster, from ShipShape, Fitness for the Mind and Body, conducted demonstrations on the best way to fall and the safest way to get back up.
WE’D LOVE TO MEET YOU… We have surprisingly affordable apartments in every size and style. Call today to schedule a personal tour: 401-273-9550.
Click below for a video tour of Apartment 354.
Laurelmead, 355 Blackstone Boulevard, Providence, RI 02906, 401.273.9550
