Endless Opportunities to Stay Social

Making Connections At Benchmark At Hanover

With older adults becoming less social and more likely to live alone as they age, it’s no wonder feelings of loneliness peak between one’s mid-50s and late-80s. As seniors feel less connected, they can develop social isolation, a condition in which one lacks meaningful relationships or engagement with others. Social isolation can be detrimental to health and well-being. A 2015 study found loneliness and isolation may increase the risk of early death, while research from the American Psychological Association has indicated loneliness can be as damaging to one’s health as obesity.

Just as a well-balanced diet and exercise are essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so too is staying connected as we age. Researchers note that social engagement is among the most important factors to helping seniors remain connected and healthy. Data suggests that communities like Benchmark at Hanover can improve quality of life by creating a socially rich environment that encourages participation and family involvement. Benchmark Senior Living communities are at the forefront of working to prevent social isolation with programs like Something in Common, which is designed to provide countless opportunities to develop relationships with neighbors and pursue passions. Upon moving in, associates conduct resident interviews and discovery sessions to get to know them. The information connects and deepens relationships with residents and associates who share the same interests or experiences. In addition, Something in Common helps to develop particular programs, connect residents to specific group or individual offerings and the Dream Now program makes bucket-list wishes come true. No resident goal or desire is too small or large for the Benchmark Dream Now program, which identifies and focuses on making residents’ wishes a reality.

At Benchmark at Hanover, residents will have ample opportunities to connect with others through a full calendar of educational experiences, trips to favorite and new destinations, volunteer opportunities, health and wellness experiences, interest-oriented clubs and more.

For instance, Benchmark at Hanover’s sister community, Plymouth Crossings, has a resident performance group. Together with associates, the group spends months rehearsing, creating costumes and procuring props for bi-annual plays like Who Shot Calhoun Cahootz. The plays are performed in front of an audience of family, friends and others, and have become a community highlight.

No matter how seniors choose to engage, Benchmark associates get to know each resident and encourage participation in many ways to ensure they take full advantage of everything we have to offer.

At Benchmark at Hanover, we believe it’s our unique stories and experiences that tie us together. We’re looking forward to connecting with you and getting to know your story!

enchmark at Hanover executive director Fatima

Feliciano had a career in residential property management for more than a decade.

It was a profession in which she excelled, but she felt something was missing. Then, she discovered assisted living and Benchmark’s caring culture.

“Today, I’m responsible for much more than managing buildings. It’s about creating a vibrant community and contributing to an inclusive culture centered on helping seniors live their lives to the fullest. I’m proud and privileged to carry out this mission,” said Feliciano.

Feliciano started as the executive director of Benchmark Senior Living at Plymouth Crossings, where she oversaw community operations for more than three years. While she adored Plymouth Crossings, she could not turn down the opportunity to lead and develop a new community. She is enjoying meeting prospective residents and looks forward to when their smiling faces occupy the community.

“For me, connecting with my residents is absolutely the best part of my day,” she said. “I enjoy learning from their wisdom, hearing their stories and understanding their rich lives. But, most of all, I love listening to how much they’ve enjoyed their day because of the experiences we make possible.”

Feliciano has a passion for older people that was inspired by her loved ones. She comes from a large extended family and has two children of her own. Now a certified director of assisted living through the national assisted living association, Argentum, she is always amazed at how she and her colleagues can make a difference in someone’s life.

“One resident is always saying I saved her life. That’s an amazing feeling, knowing you have positively impacted someone’s life in such a significant way,” she said. In her free time, Feliciano enjoys karaoke and dancing. Some of her interests spill over to work. While at Plymouth Crossings, she’s participated in numerous celebrations and activities to entertain and help residents feel at home. She has the same passion for her team of associates, and she takes the roles of leader, mentor and friend seriously.

“It takes a special person to work in senior living. It’s my duty to support my dedicated associates and ensure they feel appreciated,” she explained. “Our Hanover team truly loves getting to know our residents and designing personalized services and experiences so they can make the most of their retirement years,” she said.