Resident Supports Renovations at Wellhaven Senior Living
For three weeks during the summer, things were different at Wellhaven Senior Living in River Falls, WI. There were no residents playing cards or visiting in the Fireside Lounge or enjoying meals or spending time in the Dining Room. But no worries—these activities were still taking place.
On July 17, 2017, construction began to install a new elevator, a project with a three week timeline. Without the use of an elevator, residents spent more time on their respective floors. People were finding new places to gather to play their games, spend time together and maintain a routine.
“That’s what I like about the place. I keep busy. I’m too busy for my age, I don’t get enough done,” said Bess Knott, a 102-year-old resident at Wellhaven.
The lack of elevator presented some new challenges for Wellhaven staff, but they were prepared.
“We had a lot of ‘Elevator Down Meetings’ to get ready for it. We had everything organized and ready to go. We knew what we were going to do and when we were going to do it,” said Beth Ann Schultz, manager at Wellhaven Senior Living.
“We had Happy Hour, which normally all residents come down to the first floor for. Activities Coordinator Laura Swanson held Happy Hour on the third and second floor on Saturday and on the first floor on Sunday,” explained Beth Ann.
“It will be wonderful to have an elevator that we are satisfied with,” Bess said. Bess generously donated to Wellhaven and the funds were put toward the summer renovation project. The renovation plans included a new beauty salon, office space and updates to the Fireside Lounge. The decision for Bess to donate wasn’t a hard one. She knew her funds could provide positive improvements for herself and other residents at Wellhaven.
“That’s about it, I’m proud of Wellhaven,” Bess said, “I’m glad that they decided to use it for something that will benefit everyone.” To honor Bess and her contributions, the beauty salon is named “Forget Me Knott Salon.” The new shop is located down the hall from Bess’s apartment.
“That’s going to be really wonderful, I’m really looking forward to it,” Bess said. The Fireside Lounge renovations boast new flooring and furniture. Residents often spend time together in the lounge, doing a variety of activities from working on a puzzle to watching television to having coffee time or Bible study. The new furniture features a variety of tables, a couch, a loveseat and around a dozen overstuffed chairs.
“Any remodeling lifts your spirits and gives you the feeling of home. When the residents walk off the elevator to see the wood floor and the furniture, it will be magnificent,” Beth Ann said.
Another honor that Bess received is being the first resident to ride in the newly completed elevator. But she didn’t go alone, as Beth Ann promised to share the ride with her.
“We were excited for her; I think that she felt honored to do that,” Beth Ann said.
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