Holiday Celebrations Highlighted by Senior Living Executive Magazine

In a recent interview with Senior Living Executive magazine, Sarah Kokinos, vice president of community living at Erickson Senior Living, shared why the holiday season is such a special time in our communities.  

“Each year, team members and residents collaborate on a range of activities and events to celebrate the rich diversity within our communities, share traditions, and create new ones together,” Kokinos said. “From décor to dining, we seek out opportunities to connect during this busy time of year.”

Among the popular activities, many residents enjoy listening to performances by resident-run choral and musical groups, visiting elaborate train gardens engineered by their fellow residents and meeting friends at on-campus restaurants for special seasonal menu items.

“In recent years, some of our communities have held winter festivals that have become intergenerational affairs welcoming residents’ families and grandchildren to celebrate the season together,” Kokinos said. “It’s that sense of connection and shared experience that make life at our communities so special all year long. Time shared together, particularly at the holidays, is critical to feeling at home. While often rich with memories, family, and tradition, we recognize that the holidays can also be a challenging time for some, particularly when it comes to mental health. To support residents’ health and well-being, we make it a priority to provide vibrant, convenient opportunities for residents to celebrate together.”

Kokinos said Erickson has a strong tradition of holiday giving. Erickson also has an annual Staff Appreciation Fund program that allows residents to contribute to a monetary gift for hourly team members. In addition, many resident and team member groups collect warm coats or nonperishable items for less fortunate members of the surrounding area, while others volunteer at local shelters or participate in Angel Tree giving programs.

“We’re very fortunate to have a number of talented craftspeople among our residents,” Kokinos said. “In the months leading up to the holiday season, the woodshops on our campuses are busy with the sights and sounds of hand-crafted toys being built, which are then shared with local Toys for Tots programs and other charitable organizations.”

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