Creating a space where residents feel safe is one of the most meaningful parts of being an Activity Director. A safe space is not just about the room or the activity on the schedule, but about the feeling residents have when they walk in. It is a place where they sense they are welcome, accepted, and not under pressure to perform or do things the “right” way. When residents feel this kind of safety, they are more likely to relax, stay present, and trust the moment. Safety grows through consistency, patience, and the way we show up for people. Residents notice when they are given time, when their choices are respected, and when they are allowed to engage at their own pace. In these moments, activities become more than something to pass the time. They become opportunities for comfort, connection, and dignity. Creating this kind of environment reminds residents that they matter just as they are, and it reminds us why this work carries such deep meaning.

I’m excited to introduce two new classrooms inside Activity Director Coach—both designed to support you where you are and spark meaningful connection. The Activity Hub This classroom is your go-to space for Activity Director support. You’ll find practical ideas, encouragement, and simple approaches you can use right away in senior living and mental health settings. The Jigsaw Puzzle Passport (Pilot) This is a traveling puzzle experience led by Activity Directors. One puzzle moves from community to community, creating shared moments, conversation, and connection across senior living and mental health spaces. An monthly activity kit is also offered. This is filled with a mo thky theme for you to continue engaging while waiting for the next puzzle. If you are interested in a traveling jigsaw puzzle in your community please message below or DM me.

What’s one simple activity you’ve used recently that created a meaningful moment for just one resident or participant—even if no one else noticed?

After prayerful consideration, I’ve spent some time reflecting on what keeps showing up in my posts—and what’s on my heart. I’ve realized that while my passion has always been helping caregivers create meaningful engagement, I also feel a strong calling to support Activity Directors in senior living and mental health communities. That work keeps pulling me in, and it’s where I feel most useful right now. Because of that, I’m shifting my focus to serve as the Activity Director Coach. This will continue to live under the Mighty Caregivers Ministry, because at the core, this work is still about care, connection, and dignity. If you’re not an Activity Director and you’re here as a caregiver looking for help with engagement, I truly hope you’ll continue to follow along. The heart of this space remains the same—and I’m grateful you’re here as this next chapter begins. @Amanda Thacker @Ronald Gladwell @Laurie Mishmash @Katie Constant @Deborah Murray @Monica B @Mary Weaver @David Paz @Judy Shepler @Wendy Cuomo @Diana Teijaro @Michele Mirabella @Lynn Good @Leeanne Hurren @Melissa Leech

I have spent a quarter of a century working in senior living, and over those years, I have worn many different hats. My journey began as a social worker when I first noticed something important about myself—I was good at engaging with people. Especially seniors. I did not just complete tasks or assessments; I connected. I listened. I noticed what mattered to them. That awareness led me into nursing homes, where I deepened my understanding of the complexities of aging, illness, and care. I saw firsthand how vital meaningful engagement is to a person’s quality of life. I also learned quickly that engagement is not a “nice extra”—it is essential. Over the years, I worked in many roles across nursing homes, adult day centers, and assisted living communities, often focusing on programming and engagement. Much of my time was spent as an activity director, creating spaces where people could experience connection, purpose, and moments of joy. I loved the work intensely, but the long hours and emotional weight eventually took their toll. As my career continued, I noticed that I had a particular ability to work with people in memory care settings. Others saw it too. People often told me that I seemed to have a knack for engaging with seniors, especially those living with dementia. I learned how to meet people where they were, adapt my approach, and connect even when words were hard to find or memories faded. What mattered most to me was not perfection, but presence.