THEMORRISONWAY ISSUE 2, 2015
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENTS BY KEVIN SVAGDIS, JOE GORMAN AND DAN FEDRO EMPOWERU Unique Health & Wellness Program Empowers Everyone CLIENT PERSPECTIVE EmpowerU Helps Senior Living Residents Live Their Best Life EMPOWERMENT AT ANY AGE The Impact of Small, Happy & Empowering Moments OUR FOOD RULES Fresh Ingredients and an Empowered Spirit Inspire Chef
WE ENRICH THE LIVES OF SENIORS EVERY DAY
STRENGTH IN
A Message from the Presidents
NUMBERS
It’s true what they say; there is strength in numbers. On the most basic level, we know the power of 10 people pulling together is far greater than the efforts of one. And a group of people, engaging others, has exponential influence beyond a single person. But numbers—pure numeric facts—also hold the power to educate and open our eyes to the realities of our physical health. At Morrison Senior Living, we believe that there is an investment to be made at every age and every stage of life. This is the foundation of our Nutrition & Wellness offerings. One of our flagship programs, EmpowerU, combines elements of fitness and nutrition to create a formula for sustainable success. This proven program is unique within the industry and
Kevin Svagdis Division President
delivers remarkable and measurable results. In fact, it’s the first fully integrated wellness program in the market that combines fitness/ nutrition/culinary/therapies and is available for residents as well as associates. EmpowerU ties to our purpose of enriching the lives of Seniors every day and our commitment to helping individuals achieve their wellness goals. Life is a unique and sometimes difficult journey to navigate alone. We believe that when we walk together we are stronger and the path becomes easier—and often more joyful—to travel. In this issue of The Morrison Way, we invite you to explore how EmpowerU is transforming our people, our communities and our industry in ways that really add up.
Joseph Gorman Division President
Dan Fedro Division President
UNIQUE HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGAM
EMPOWERS EVERYONE
What is EmpowerU? At the heart of everything, it’s you living at your best. This unique program, first launched in 2013, empowers senior living communities across the country to take charge of their health and embrace a proactive approach to achieve healthier, fuller lives. The program was piloted at St. Peters Health System, including Hawthorne Ridge and The Glen at Hiland Meadows, and originally targeted seniors in independent living. The results have been incredible, creating enthusiasm at these communities and outstanding results among independent living residents. EmpowerU is now expanding across the country to include additional communities, as well as participation among senior living associates and residents in assisted living and skilled nursing. “EmpowerU is a unique health and wellness program that extends beyond just fitness,” said Senior Director of Nutrition & Wellness for Morrison Senior Living, Jessica Shyu. “It’s a philosophy of living your best at every age and stage of life. Our goal is to create a better quality of life for everyone through wellness, exercise and nutrition.” The program, paired with Morrison Senior Living’s industry leading focus on healthy, greattasting food and nutrition, creates a powerhouse package that’s like nothing else in senior living.
EmpowerU is a unique health and wellness program that extends beyond just fitness Meaningful Changes The strength of EmpowerU is in its proactive, comprehensive and customizable approach. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to health and wellness, but the robust program succeeds by providing turnkey solutions that include all the guidance, support, resources and tools necessary to jumpstart resident and associate engagement and create meaningful and lasting lifestyle changes. “We initially launched the program for residents, but we are expanding it to associates for a key reason,” Shyu said. “This is the residents’ home, and in many instances the associate is like a family member. From the housekeeper to the mailman to the cashier or the cook, they are all part of the community. If you want to build a wellness community, you all have to be on the same page.”
UNIQUE HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGAM
EMPOWERS EVERYONE
Quality of Life at Every Age Residents, whether they live in independent living, assisted living or skilled nursing, can all benefit from improvements in health status and activity, no matter how small or big the change. For some, the goal may be to continue to eat meals unassisted. For others, it may be to complete a 5k walk. One resident joined EmpowerU fitness classes with the goal of walking unassisted; after 12 weeks of consistent class attendance, she could complete the step test without a walker in her apartment. Another 100-year-old resident went from getting halfway up in his chair to doing four chair stands in just two weeks of class. This improvement meant the resident was able to stand up independently from the chair without assistance – a huge milestone. The goals are individual, but the results are tangible. Engaged associates who are actively pursuing healthy lifestyles inspire engaged, active residents, and vice versa. In addition, associates who take better care of their own health are better able to deliver extraordinary care and hospitality to residents. Lastly, healthy associates and staff tend to have fewer absences and less illness. It’s a win for everyone.
Over a six month period of EmpowerU sessions at Hawthorne Ridge, residents increased:
26%
Static Balance
28%
Upper Strength
37%
Lower Strength
31%
Lower Flexibility
44%
Cardio Endurance
33%
Upper Flexibility
45% Agility
“At its core, EmpowerU provides an improved quality of life for all people within our communities,” Shyu said. “It connects fitness, nutrition knowledge and food in a unique and powerful way that produces measurable results. It’s a comprehensive, person-centered approach to health and wellness that gives our clients the ability to focus on and improve the wellbeing of everyone in and around the community, while delivering on our purpose of enriching lives of Seniors every day.”
Measurable Results It’s one thing to talk about health and wellness, it’s quite another to show concrete results. EmpowerU provides measurable, reportable metrics that give specifics on balance, strength, flexibility and agility. Improvements in these areas can lead not only to decreased instances of slips and falls, but also to a marketable advantage over other senior living communities.
To learn more about EmpowerU, contact Jessica Shyu at Jessica.Shyu@compass-usa.com.
TIPS FOR EMPOWERING SUCCESS Step 1: Engage Engage residents and associates by creating a new awareness, understanding and attitude about human aging. It not only intrigues residents and associates, but it also empowers them to think differently about their own potential.
Step 2: Educate Educate residents and associates through interactive experiences that explore the key dimensions of physical wellness—food, nutrition information and function.
Step 3: Evolve The multidisciplinary nature of EmpowerU helps residents and associates grow, develop, change and evolve. They break down stereotypes on aging, allowing participants to experience a new world of expanded opportunities and begin living their life at their full potential while approaching a healthier lifestyle.
CLIENT PERSPECTIVE:
EMPOWERU HELPS SENIOR LIVING RESIDENTS LIVE THEIR BEST LIFE The Glen at Hiland Meadows is in Queensbury, NY and located just minutes from the Adirondack Mountains and Lake George. It, too, was among the first Morrison Senior Living Communities to launch the EmpowerU program, Executive Director Thomas Lyons shares his perspective: “It’s an ideal program from my view and from our team’s perspective here at The Glen. It’s really a win-win for everyone. It has provided our residents an opportunity to be proactive about their health and wellness in a measurable and meaningful way. We’ve had great programs in place, but EmpowerU is unique, particularly from the perspective of residents being able to participate in the 12-week sessions and have a pre- and post-program evaluation. Having tangible results and being able to see that improvement is great not only for the resident, but for the families and our staff to see. We want to provide our residents with the opportunity to proactively approach wellness through fitness and education so they are in the best position to avoid or recover from some of the challenges of aging such as falls. By keeping our residents healthier, happier and more aware of their surroundings, it only helps. If you are more agile, flexible and strong, the likelihood of having a fall diminishes. That’s something that really makes the program special. The program has been in place about a year; we opened it to independent and assisted living initially and with encouragement from staff to participate it has grown. It’s really fit in nicely as a supplement to our existing exercise programs. We didn’t replace any exercise programs as we have long-time relationships with instructors; EmpowerU only added and
Thomas Lyons: Executive Director The Glen at Hiland Meadows
supplemented our entire wellness approach on the campus. The benefits are numerous and we now have documented results of seeing people improve with agility, balance and strength. Those are all important, certainly, but I think the education piece is also critical. From a nutrition perspective, it helps residents to be more aware of their diet and how that relates directly to physical, emotional, psychological well-being and health. There is also a social perspective; residents have all benefitted from interaction with each other and our wellness coordinator Kendra Vikers, who has done a fabulous job inspiring our residents to participate. She is a Registered Dietician / Nutritionist with a Masters in Health Administration. She is also a certified ACE Certified Group Exercise Instructor with over 20 years of fitness experience. Kendra’s
experience and knowledge are a perfect fit for what makes our program unique. With the participation and support of our residents, the program really has injected a whole new life into our community. We always had a great, well-rounded program, but this has really taken us to the next level. We are fortunate to have such engaged and active residents who help to make this program succeed. It absolutely is a significant competitive advantage as compared to staying at home or other senior living options. I think from a generational perspective, as you start to see those transitions from GI to Silent to Baby Boomer generations, current and prospective residents are looking for more options and well-rounded wellness programs and activities. Wellness isn’t just exercise; it’s a combination of nutrition, social interaction and stimulation. Together, all of those lead to a better quality of life which is exactly what we are committed to providing.�
HAWTHORNE RIDGE
Hawthorne Ridge is a senior living community in East Greenbush, New York. It was one of the first Morrison communities to roll out the EmpowerU program. We asked Executive Director Amy Kennedy to share her community’s experience: “A lot of people ask me: What is the secret to aging well? I tell them it’s moving. I am an RN by background, and when we don’t keep moving— whether that’s our bodies or our minds—that’s when the problems set in. We were fortunate to be one of the first communities to participate in the program and it took off like gangbusters in both independent and assisted living. We had people who we never saw coming out of their apartment coming out for EmpowerU! We have 49 of 50 independent living residents enrolled and 6 of 12 assisted living residents enrolled in the program. We offer 11 classes a week plus walking clubs. We’ve seen residents go from walkers to canes. We have a couple residents who have Parkinson’s disease and we’ve documented a difference in their strength and their ability to do things. That has really been encouraging for us, as well as the residents, to notice the difference. Our residents are eating healthier; we have a nutrition class every month and the kitchen backs up what the EmpowerU program is focusing on. For example, they made black bean cupcakes. We have residents who would never think about eating black beans and now they are eating black bean cupcakes and looking for those healthier choices. We have a resident who is on oxygen; she never came out of her apartment before, but she’s been on the EmpowerU program since day one.
Amy Kennedy Executive Director Hawthorne Ridge
She recently had pneumonia, and one of the reasons I think she was able to recover and return from the hospital is due to the strength she gained during the EmpowerU program. It allowed her to recover from this illness. I think the change that residents see in their own health and wellness is perhaps the biggest benefit. We hear their stories and we know it makes a difference. We’ve had residents go to their doctor, and the doctors note that their weight is better, their strength is better. It’s more than just an exercise program; it takes the whole person’s wellness into account, body, mind and soul. And the continuity of having the same person work with them is great. We have absolutely noticed a difference in balance and slips and falls; it’s definitely improved. EmpowerU is a great marketing tool; it’s absolutely terrific. We refer to it when prospective residents visit, we give them a brochure and if a class is in session we visit. We have a small gym upstairs and our wellness coordinator has even taught residents how to use the equipment properly, without getting hurt. It’s been a great benefit. I think EmpowerU is unique in that it complements what we have on the menu. It really is full service for the whole person. It’s tailored to each resident and their strengths and weakness and what they need to work on. It creates personalized programs for those who participate.”
It’s more than just an exercise program; it takes the whole person’s wellness into account, body, mind and soul.
EMPOWERMENT AT ANY AGE WITH PAUL SCHARNOTT THE IMPACT OF SMALL, HAPPY & EMPOWERING MOMENTS Skilled nursing in America has changed. Elders of every age are living longer and seniors— including those in skilled nursing—and their families expect programs that enhance and enrich their lives in ways that are appropriate to their abilities. EmpowerU embraces seniors of all ages and stages, including those who have decreased or limited mobility, pain or other conditions that require nursing care. Paul Scharnott, in his role as Systems Wellness Coordinator for Morrison Senior Living, knows that for most seniors, small moments of activity, independence and empowerment can have a huge impact not only on residents themselves, but also for their families.
The EmpowerU program has expanded to include a series of assessments, activities and programs that combine fitness and nutrition with fun for seniors in skilled nursing environments.
“PHYSICAL” WELLNESS RESULTS FOR SCHUYLER RIDGE NAME
EmpowerU is designed to maximize the abilities of every senior, regardless of their condition, and give them a sense of accomplishment, independence and empowerment appropriate to their individual needs.
DATE________
1. BALANCE (CIRCLE ONE) HELD FOR _________ SECONDS: (GOAL: 10 SECONDS).
WELLNESS BUCK$ ___________ (ATTEMPTED = 1;
COMPLETED = 5; EACH LEVEL ADD 1 POINT)
2.AGILITY (8 FOOT WALK)
TIME____________
ASSISTED? YES ____
NO _____
DEVICE___________
WELLNESS BUCK$ ___________ (ATTEMPTED = 1; COMPLETED = 5)
3. STRENGTH
One Good Day “There was really a gap when it came to formalized wellness programs in skilled nursing,” Scharnott said. “At Morrison Senior Living, we know even the smallest achievements—a smile, eating a full meal, standing up unassisted—can have a huge impact for seniors and their loved ones. For us, if residents have one good day, that’s progress.”
UNIT
NUMBER OF CHAIR STANDS (Circle one)
1 2 3 4 5 WELLNESS BUCK$ ________ (ATTEMPTED=1 OR 1 $ PER STAND)
GROW * DEVELOP * MODIFY * CHANGE
TOTAL WELLNESS BUCK$ ___________
MAY BE USED TOWARD EVENTS AND PURCHASES AT YOUR FACILITY.
ORDINAL SCORE ___________ (FROM SPPB SCORE SHEET:
0 TO 12 POINTS)
An example of the physical assessment forms used for EmpowerU
New items include progress posters that help residents and their families track improvements, as well as EmpowerU dollars that can be redeemed toward bingo, hair salon services, purchase of EmpowerU water bottles and more. “The key is that the program is flexible and customized for each individual resident and community,” Scharnott said.
A Will and a Way The program measures balance, agility and strength and includes progressive exercises that encourage evolution and momentum. A key component that Morrison discovered is helping participants move beyond pain. Those who warm up before exercise usually discover that the joints loosen and pain lessens, and they are inspired to continue movement, which can decrease pain, encourage future participation and improve overall wellness. “The goal is to progress in activity,” Scharnott said. “It doesn’t matter if you are 19 or 90, it’s really the same. It’s exciting to see how we can engage people at every level and age to pursue a healthier lifestyle. It doesn’t matter where you are, your condition can be improved to some degree. You just need the will and the right incentive.”
BY THE NUMBERS: A QUANTIFIED NEED What do associates in senior living really want? What motivates them and what are their concerns and worries? Mather LifeWays partnered last year with LeadingAge, American Seniors Housing Association and Caring Communities for a first-of-its-kind national survey of employee wellness programs across senior living, long-term care and hospital settings. The survey, released last March, aimed to understand the scope, nature and impact of wellness programs from employee perspectives and identify factors that drive high rates of employee participation and achieve positive outcomes. The report included 350 health organizations representing 843 communities and hospitals, with nearly 134,000 employees. The results back up the key components of the EmpowerU program and show us that when it comes to helping to engage, educate and evolve associates in their individual journeys to health and wellness, we are on the right path.
The Results Health and Wellness issue of greatest concern: Stress management 50% Obesity 41% Lack of exercise/physical activity 40% Work/life balance 35% Financial security 35%
The Details 17% of all providers report employee participation in wellness initiatives of more than 50% 69% indicated participation of 30% or less Senior living providers reported a significantly lower level of employee participation in wellness programs compared to hospital providers CCRCs are more likely to report participation rates above 50% compared to freestanding independent living, assisted living and long-term care communities
Fresh Ingredients and an Empowered Spirit Inspire Chef at Lockwood Lodge
Maybe the kimchi was the turning point. Carol Koty was studying marine chemistry and mathematics and working part-time when she decided to enter a pie-making competition. She had visited Korea as part of her studies and was in awe of the flavors she experienced, and that’s when she made a vow. “I told myself, if I do well in the pie competition, I’ll quit my job and go to culinary school,” Koty said. “I’ve had a passion for food and competition ever since then.” Her winning pie was just a taste of what was in store for this passionate chef. Today, as Chef Supervisor at Lockwood Lodge, Masonicare at Newtown, Koty infuses flavor and fun into her meals and uses her love of fresh, unique and healthful ingredients. And she enters food competitions with a fierce will to win. Truth be told, she’s always loved food. Koty grew up cooking with her mother in Connecticut and remembers planting and harvesting loads of plump, juicy tomatoes each summer and then meticulously canning them for winter use. So it’s not surprise that when Koty began entering food competitions, her mother, Susan, was at her side as sous chef. Last November, Koty competed in the World Food Championships in Las Vegas. She placed 18th after the signature dish round and 28th overall for her Korean Bulgogi Burger. The qualifying event for
the World Food Championships was the Kenmore Cookmore Food Champ Challenge, where she won the grand prize. “This burger was inspired by a dish called bulgogi that I had during a trip to Korea in 2004, while studying fisheries,” Koty said. “I still remember the tastes and smells and how much I loved the culture of the food. This burger was inspired by that.” The burger uses a Korean-style marinade for the beef and replaces kimchi—a fermented seaweed dish she first tried in Korea—with a fresh-prepared slaw alternative that gives the burger a zesty punch. Her burger will soon be offered on the community’s menu as an alternate meal choice.
“More and more of our residents are open to trying new things,” Koty said. “Of course, you have to know your audience and tailor the meal for their tastes, but it’s always exciting to see one of our residents experience new flavors that they enjoy.” In December, Koty participated in another competition for the Food Network – Guy’s Grocery Games. The holiday-themed episode “Dashing Through the Aisles” aired December 14, 2014. Using her creativity, physical stamina, adaptability and culinary skills, Koty created a smoked salmon mousse stuffed sole on a crostini with a
gingerbread pesto for the first round. She made it onto round two, where she created a poached pear stuffed with walnuts, cranberries, bleu cheese and topped with fresh whipped cream. While the judges ruled it lacked a hint of holiday spice and sent her home, Koty remains a winner in the eyes of her associates and especially her residents. Recently, Koty coordinated a screening of the episode and recreated her holiday dessert, sharing her passion for cooking and competing with team members and residents.
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