What makes a place feel like home? At The Gardens at Kensington Health, our long-term care home, the Life Enhancement team works to create a warm and welcoming community where every resident feels seen, heard, and valued.
More Than Just Activities
Recreation therapy is about unlocking memories, celebrating cultures, fostering friendships, and adapting to residents’ evolving needs. Whether it is a lively game of Jeopardy, a peaceful sensory session, or a cherished song on a record player, Life Enhancement Assistants (LEAs) strive to make every day meaningful.
“I wake up and look forward to what I’ll do today,” says a resident of The Gardens. “The LEAs make sure there's something for everyone. I told my LEA I like tea, and now we have tea parties using teacups like the ones my mom had.”
For Carla, a Kensington LEA who started as a Personal Support Worker, this role is a chance to take engagement to the next level. “It is more than bingo. It is about keeping things exciting for the residents,” she says.
(Resident of the Gardens and Carla)
"Recreation therapy is about improving lives through leisure," adds Paige, another LEA. "We focus on all aspects – physical, social, spiritual, and emotional. It is about finding what brings each person happiness.”
Moments That Matter
One of the most rewarding parts of being an LEA is the deep connections formed with residents. Whether it is a familiar song that sparks a memory or a comforting presence on a tough day, these small moments make a big difference.
"You really get to know them as people," says Paige. "We do assessments when a new resident arrives to learn about their interests, but the best insights come from simply talking to them and their families."
Loved ones play a key role. One resident’s husband brings in a record player and shares stories behind vinyl records from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. “The residents love it,” says Paige. “Since they enjoy music so much, we keep finding new ways to include it.”
Beyond group activities, LEAs help residents stay connected to their passions.
“There is a resident who only communicates with her eyes,” Carla says. “It took time, but I found out she loves animals, so I started bringing in my senior dog, Louie, once a month. Seeing her light up when Louie visits is incredible.”
(Carla’s dog, Louie)
For Virginia, a resident at The Gardens, that passion is writing. Paige supports her in writing a column for the monthly resident newsletter, ensuring her voice is heard and shared with the community.
(Virginia and Paige)
A Place That Feels Like Home
Residents’ interests change over time, and the Life Enhancement team evolves with them. “Some residents who once loved word games now prefer music-based programs,” says Paige. “It is about adapting to their needs.”
Through every change, new resident, and shifting interest, LEAs strive to make The Gardens feel like home.
"I often think, if I lived here, how would I want it to be?" says Carla. "I want residents to feel engaged and valued every day."
Click here to learn more about the Gardens, a long-term care home committed to exceptional person-centred care.