As it is an active living centre, they do not handle any health care, although home care people come in with residents as needed. However, they do wellness checks. Garden said if the residents put out their sign saying “good morning” and their garbage, they know everyone is good. If there is no sign, they will check to make sure there is not a problem. Also, if someone does not show up for a meal, they will check as well.
Some of the residents have been there since opening, with some moving on to other places as their needs increase. Garden said most are from Boissevain, with others having some connection to the community. She finds it interesting to watch the interactions.
“They all know each other. They have a lot to talk about, having had a long period of life together. We see them as individuals with their own characters. When I come to work, I spend the majority of my day laughing, because they are laughing.”
There are many activities in the facility, which Garden says have a good rate of participation. There is an exercise program with volunteer Tara Cassils. There is bingo and a weekly crib club. Puzzling is massive, Garden said, and they do it as teams. Live entertainment comes in, including music or different presentations. There are birthday parties, planting days, and outings are organized with other groups in town. Garden added everyone can participate in activities, including members of the public or family members.
There are 18 people working in different capacitates at Cherry Creek. Garden said there are some students, which is great because the residents can interact with younger people on a day-to day-basis. She said they have a great staff and it is a popular place to work.
Garden feels the location is a key. They are right next to the Boissevain Health Centre, and in many cases residents can just walk over to the doctor’s office for appointments.
Many on the waiting list are thinking of several years in the future, but there are inquiries all of the time as well. Even if there is not space at the moment, Garden says it is still good, because it gets people thinking about senior housing.
Garden has been in her position for a year now, and said it is a lively place, with plenty of fun and conversations. Development continues, including applying for grants to help with programming. She feels Cherry Creek Place has become an important part of the community.
“It’s proven it was worthwhile, and there’s still a need. One of the biggest issues with seniors is loneliness,” Garden explained. “In a place like this, you are never alone. That’s why a lot of the seniors thrive. They engage every day with their friends and staff.”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff