Parkshore Senior Campus
About Us
At Parkshore in St Louis Park, you can begin the next chapter of your life surrounded by new friends and comfort amenities within our active Minnesota senior living community. Our 55 and up living community has options for seniors of all activity and health levels, from our independent senior apartments to assisted living and memory care. Parkshore is one of the most desirable 55+ communities in St Louis Park, MN, with exceptional reviews from our residents due to our excellent staff. We are conveniently located near Excelsior Blvd and Highway 100 with Wolfe Park and Wolfe Lake right in our backyard. It is a great destination location for residents and family alike. Parkshore has the unique distinction of a being a very walkable location. Parkshore has shopping right out the front door and a park with a lake in the backyard. Parkshore even has four grocery stores within one mile!
Senior Living at its Best
Managed by SilverCrest Properties, Parkshore in St Louis Park is designed with comfort and an enriched lifestyle in mind. You will find a full-range of living options for seniors, from 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartments to assisted living studio, one and two bedroom apartments or memory care suites on up to 2 bedroom apartments. Parkshore boasts a fitness center, heated pool, chef-prepared meals, and many planned activities on our campus, as well as transportation and access to the local area. We are a premier Minneapolis retirement community with easy access to local shopping, dining and activities throughout the Twin Cities area.
With exquisite dining, enriching activities and inspired spaces, Parkshore has everything you need to enjoy life to its fullest at any age. To learn more about us and everything we have to offer at our senior community, book a tour of our campus. Contact our office in St Louis Park, MN, to learn more about joining our vibrant senior community at Parkshore.
“Parkshore offers a vibrant, friendly and welcoming community for seniors ready to simplify life and enjoy the good things. Today’s seniors are more active and engaged than ever before. We encourage healthier, dynamic lifestyles. Fitness focused amenities, opportunities for social interaction and creativity through events, various clubs and programs are tailored toward what our residents want to stay active. Overall, the culture at Parkshore fosters relationships between residents and their neighbors and the staff. The key reason we have longevity with residents and staff is because of one another.”
– Mike
Management Team
William Huseonica
Executive Director
William Huseonica
Executive Director
A little about your job…
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community? Back in 1997 when I got my first job as a recreation coordinator in a long-term care facility, I knew I had found my place. To be honest, before stepping in the door of that first job my thoughts were that it was going to be a short-term thing until I found something else. But once I started, I connected with this population unlike anywhere else I had worked. Since 1997 and to this day I always say that the residents I serve do more to lift me up and give to me more than I can ever give back to them.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role? I have had many roles while working with the senior population. As a recreation coordinator I earned a 4-year Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation followed by a CTRS certification. Since then, I have had roles as Admissions Coordinator, Marketing Director, and now Executive Director for which I have earned my LALD, Licensed Assisted Living Director, certification through the state of Minnesota.
What is the best part of your workday? Even though I now have a lot of behind-the-scenes managerial responsibilities that I do enjoy working on, the best part continues to be interacting with residents and staff and hopefully finding solutions to struggles they may be encountering.
What is your favorite resident memory or story? Many years ago, I was asked to escort Ms. Mable to her daughter’s wedding. Ms. Mable and I had a wonderful connection as we both had a little bit of a twisted sense of humor. She was in a wheelchair, and the wedding was on a double decker boat on Lake Minnetonka. When it came time for the guest to move from the lower level to the upper level of the boat, the captain and his crew swooped Ms. Mable up out of the wheelchair and carried her upstairs as I followed carrying her wheelchair. I will never forget how she was blushing and giggling like a teenager as the crewmen brought her to the upper deck. While swooning in the captain’s arms, she looked back at me, obviously enjoying the
attention, and said, “Now don’t’ get jealous William. Your still my date!” She was hysterical and had us all laughing at her antics.
What makes your community stand out from your competition? The staff that serve the resident at Parkwood and Parkshore are some of the most dedicate team members that I have had the honor of working alongside. I know when residents step in the door they are going to experience thoughtful and dedicated services that rival any in the Twin Cities.
More About William…
Here are some ideas on what you could tell us about yourself: Favorite Movie?
“The Last Station”, based on a novel by Jay Parini (also read it) and I have watched and read all of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
Favorite Book?
Top of the list must be “I Heard the Owl Call My Name” by Margaret Craven. I have read every word printed by my favorite southern writer Pat Conroy, author of “The Great Santini.” I recently read “A Gentleman in Moscow” and loved it!!
Favorite Sports Team(s)? My father, sister, brother, and I have received degrees from the University of Florida. We are a Gator family, and bleed Orange and Blue!!
Favorite bands? My taste is wide so I will go with what I am currently listening to…. On my play list currently is “The Best of John Lee Hooker,” Mat Kearney, Gregory Alan Isakov, and I have never gotten over my fascination with my college day’s favorite The Smiths.
Top travel destination on your list? Love the Pacific Northwest (lived there for 6 months), Utah, and Colorado. Recently been to the woods of Maine and loved that as well.
Do you have any pets? Two cats, Claudia and Edger, and a dog, Georgia.
If you could have a superpower – which one would you choose and why? Since there seems to be never enough time to get everything done that I set out for myself, I would like to be like Flash, super speedy!
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents? I have a minor in theater and when I lived in New Orleans, I acted the role of Wolfgang Mozart in Peter Shaffer’s “Amadeus.” Role of a lifetime!!
Doreen Kleinpaste
Marketing Director
Doreen Kleinpaste
Marketing Director
A little about your job…
I oversee the sales and marketing of Parkshore Senior Community with assistance from Heather Moody our marketing associate. I am responsible for creating and implementing community outreach, sales and marketing programs needed to maintain occupancy of Parkshore apartments.
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community?
I worked as a care provider for older adults in a luxury care suite when my children were little. Over seventeen years I had a myriad of different jobs but always worked with at least one senior citizen in their home. Once my children graduated from school, I went back to work in the retail sector in brand messaging and marketing insights.
I found that I missed the older adults in my life. Working in a senior community is a perfect way for me to come full circle using all my skills alongside the demographic of people I enjoy so much.
What is the best part of your workday?
Starting the day as a team with our morning meetings and then connecting with the many residents that live at Parkshore along with meeting and learning about our future residents.
What is your favorite resident memory or story?
One gentleman resident used to come and visit me in my office every day. He was of the belief that he was a co-worker and he would want to check in with me about my work day. He was quite hard of hearing and would sometimes fall asleep while I was at my desk. He would often tell me how old he was, the age would change daily. One day he told me he was 200. I told him he looked amazing for a man of that tenure!
I smile whenever he comes to mind. Some people can live in your heart that way.
What makes your community stand out from your competition.
Parkshore has the unique distinction of being in an amazing location. No other senior community can compete with Parkshore’s neighborhood walkability along with its bountiful amenity offerings. This coupled with the engaged and friendly residents makes Parkshore truly a community to admire. The residents here are looking for ways to give back to the community by volunteering, creating programs and often leading discussion groups with Life-Long Learning elements. It is quite an amazing thing to experience and to behold.
More About Doreen…
I have done many different types of jobs in my adult years of working. I thrive on doing something new and challenging. My position here at Parkshore offers me many opportunities to learn and refine what I know and am skilled at doing.
If you could have a superpower – which one would you choose and why?
To have a special “dust” that would have folks realize that senior living is such a great thing that they would move sooner rather than later.
What is something people might be surprised to know about you?
My husband and I run an Air Bnb on the second level of our duplex. We chose this for the bonus travel money it would provide but have found that meeting people from all over the United States is the surprise silver lining. We love getting to know them all. What a WIN WIN.
Heather Moody
Marketing Associate
Heather Moody
Marketing Associate
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community?
I love working with people! I like connecting with and learning about people’s lives and experiences.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role?
I am innately a helper and care giver! All my jobs have been involved in working with and/or helping people. I enjoy being involved and giving a good customer service experience.
What is the best part of your workday?
Connecting with residents, tenants, and their families! Knowing that I can help in any way makes me happy. I love to share and showoff our campus.
What makes your community stand out from your competition.
Parkshore’s location is HANDS DOWN thee best location! We have the convenience of shopping out our front door and lucky to have the MN lakes appeal in our backyard with a lake, walking paths, gardens, athletic courts, etc.
More About Heather…
I grew up in Bloomington MN. I have 2 adult children that I love to spend time with when time allows. I enjoy exercising, reading, being outdoors, and spending time with friends and family. My degree is Public Health Education; health, fitness, and wellness are my passions. I love dogs, babies, cheese and wine!
Do you have any pets?
A 12-year-old dog, a yellow lab, Nelly.
Mary Healy-Jonas
Assistant Executive Director
Mary Healy-Jones
Assistant Executive Director
A little about your job…In many ways, I am William’s right hand. I hope to help all areas of Parkshore run smoothly. I also hope to help create an environment of clear communication that allows staff and residents to understand and feel a part of the overall mission of Parkshore.
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community? I spent about 10 years as a personal trainer and group exercise instructor, and during that time, I was increasingly drawn to seniors. I loved spending time with them, teaching them about wellness and learning about the ups and downs of their lives. I became interested in how I could play a role in increasing the quality of life for seniors and create communities that allow them to live well and, quite frankly, die well also.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role? I have Masters degrees in both Social Work and Public Policy; and worked for a while in the nonprofit sector in program evaluation and program development. I think that this background will help inform the work I do, but I really feel like my time working so intimately with seniors as a trainer and teacher is what will help me most.
What is the best part of your workday? Because I am still so new, the best part of my workday is continuing to meet new people – both staff and residents – and asking many, many questions. I really love learning about people and about the processes of a new organization.
What is your favorite resident memory or story? So far, one week in, I can say that the residents have been very kind and welcoming. I appreciate those who have poked their heads in to introduce themselves, and I hope that many more do!
More about Mary…
Favorite Movie? Cinema Paradiso
Favorite Book? Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
Favorite Sports Team(s)? Hmmmm….Rhinelander Hodags? (Wisconsin)
Favorite bands? Crosby, Stills & Nash
Top travel destination on your list? London, England
Do you have any pets? Yes, I have a very anxious, clingy rescue dog named Minny.
She is a Taiwanese Mountain Dog mix.
If you could have a superpower – which one would you choose and why? Definitely
ESP. I would love to read people’s minds. Is that a superpower?
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents? Every year I go on
a 7–10-day silent Buddhist retreat. No books, no music, no eye contact, no writing, no talking.
Tell us more….
I am married (George) and have two children – a 22-year old daughter, Sophie, and a 19
year old son, Henry. We have lived a variety of places since our children were born –
St. Paul, MN, Los Altos, CA and the western suburbs of Chicago. We are glad to be
back here in the Twin Cities, as we have quite a bit of family here. I have five sisters (no
brothers!) with whom I like to text and zoom.
Tina Monsour
Resident Services Director
Tina Monsour
Resident Services Director
A little about your job…
Here at Parkshore, I serve as the primary service representative to our residents and families campus wide. Working closely with our residents and their family by supporting them through life’s changes is my passion. I truly feel I make a difference every day.
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community?
At 18, I started working with my Great Grandmother and Grandmother with their specific needs. I found myself being quite involved helping them navigate their journeys as they aged. I saw a real need for the senior population to have advocacy. I knew from then on what I wanted to do as my career.
What makes your community stand out from your competition?
One of the things that stood out and attracted me to apply at Parkshore was the Silver Advantage Core values. R.E.S.P.E.C.T. I truly feel this encompasses everything I am about. Our Team here is amazing to work with.
More About Tina…
I have been married to my husband Michael for 26 years. We have 2 adult children a daughter, Sydney, a son, Joseph, along with 2 dogs. I enjoy spending time with my family camping fishing and hunting. Our favorite place to go is Ely, MN.
Nobuhle (Gugu) Matherne
Administrative Services Director
Director of Administrative Services
How long; I’ve been at Parkshore for two years
A little about your job…
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community?
Knowing I would interact with people from different backgrounds is what sounded like a great opportunity.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role?
The first training was from my parents, trained me to respect my elders. I majored in Business Management and before that I was an RA at Walker Methodist in South Minneapolis.
What is the best part of your workday?
Seeing the satisfaction on a resident’s face after we’ve answered a billing question. Seeing them smile after we’ve just said hi to each other. When they call me out of my office to introduce me to all their family members and friends visiting.
What is your favorite resident memory or story?
We had a resident that came up to me and thanked me for remembering her name and for always greeting her with a smile. She said people thought she was grumpy, yet she was in pain, fighting cancer.
What makes your community stand out from your competition?
We have a great team!
More About Gugu…
Favorite Movie?
Tsotsi
Favorite Book?
Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela.
Born a Crime, Trevor Noah.
Top travel destination on your list?
Zanzibar, Tanzania
If you could have a superpower – which one would you choose and why?
Superhuman speed so I can do more than what the day and time allows.
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents?
That I speak four languages. English is actually my third language.
Jack Caza
Dining Director
Jack Caza
Dining Director
A little about your job…
I buy all the food, Make all the menus, and plan parties.
How many people are on your team?
There is an assistant dining director (Patti) We have a staff of 3 Chefs (Wendy, Oliver, and Shane) a chef Manager (Pierre) and 25 waitstaff and 4 dishwashers.
What special training or education helped best prepare you for this career?
A BS degree in accounting from Humboldt State University in Eureka, California, and 30 years as an Executive Chef.
What are the meals your residents request the most?
Pot Roast #1, Salmon #2, BBQ Ribs #3, Traditional Turkey Dinner all the trimmings, #4 Casseroles (hot dish)
What is the most memorable meal you have cooked at your community?
Several 5 course Meals with a Surf &Turf Theme, several Pancake breakfast of 300 People +
What is your specialty or favorite dish to make?
Coming from the Northwest California Coast I Think Salmon, lobster, shrimp, Crab, Halibut are all ingredients that lend themselves to Fresh tasting culinary delights
What makes the dining experience at your community stand out from the competition?
A good eye for color and making our meals taste good, using high quality food. Quality in Quality out.
More About Jack…
I am from Cloquet, MN, went into the Coast Guard after high school, resided on the coast Guard Cutter Eagle for the Bi-centennial year 1976. Ended my coast guard career in Alameda CA. Went to College in Northern California, Worked as An Executive Chef for the Eureka Inn and the Scotia Inn.
Honed my Ice carving ability and banquet skills at these 2 upscale hotels I have been married to my Wife Jae for 25 years, we have a son (Jason) who is married and has one son so far. And we have a little Doggie named Peanut.
I live in Eden Prairie on the bluffs by the Lions Tap
My favorite activities when I’m not cooking is golf, working out at La fitness and riding my motorcycle, a Kawasaki KZ 1000 LTD, Fishing and most outdoor sports.
What are you top “go to” meals when you are cooking at home?
My wife, Jae, is a better chef than I am, and she has a plethora of tasty meals that are trending as well as the traditional favorites
Cats or Dogs?
A 3year old Silky Terrier
Favorite Movie?
3 days of the condor
Favorite Book?
I am heavily into cookbooks, Grapes of Wrath, the Hobbit, bridges of Madison County
Favorite Sports Team(s)?
Vikings, Twins, Wild, Timberwolves, Golden Gophers, Cloquet lumberjacks
Favorite bands?
Beatles, Genesis, Fu fighters, Doors, Who, David Bowie, Duran Duran, I have a lot of favorite bands, rock and roll.
If you could go on a culinary trip anywhere in the world – which country/city would you go to and why?
Tuscany or Spain have done many Tastes of Menus from these countries and there simple but yet flavorful techniques are intriguing.
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents?
Love the thrill of driving a fast motorcycle down old country roads.
Patricia (Patti) Freeman
Assistant Director of Dining Services
Patricia (Patti) Freeman
Assistant Director of Dining Services
A little about your job…
Hiring, training, scheduling, supporting staff, catering events, maintain payroll, Bistro specials and deposits.
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community?
Paying my kindness forward to those in need.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role?
I have taken hospitality classes throughout the years and have been in customer service since the age of 13.
What is the best part of your workday?
Being available to our residents and all staff.
What is your favorite resident memory or story?
There are so many favorite moments to be able to pick just one. Every resident story about their lives is uniquely special. One that sticks in my memory is when one of our residents who was 100 at the time came with his family for dinner. He was giving his great great granddaughter a ride on his walker. 97 year age difference. Just to witness that moment will stay with me forever.
What makes your community stand out from your competition?
Parkshore has outstanding customer service! Every department works well together. Very kind and professional. We ALL take the time to listen to our residents.
More About Patti…
My husband and I built a home in St. Michael 21 years ago. We have four sons. We are a military family with two of our sons currently serving in the United States Navy. We also have two beautiful daughters in law, 4 grandsons and one granddaughter. My spare time is spent either spending time with my mother or grandkids. I am proud to say I earned the SilverCrest Star Award in 2018.
Favorite Movie?
Tombstone (special memories when my father was alive)
Favorite Book?
Too many to pick just one
Favorite Sports Team(s)?
Any team my boys or grandkids are participating in!
Favorite bands?
The 80’s era
Top travel destination on your list?
Italy in 2023 to visit our youngest who will be stationed there.
Do you have any pets?
Denali (dog) and currently on a waiting list for a lynx kitty.
If you could have a superpower – which one would you choose and why?
I would like to have the power to teleport. I drive a long distance from home to work and would like those hours of sitting in the car back for better use.
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents?
I have been a mixologist for 40 years. I have been a part of opening 5 new restaurants as the lead and training bartender. I was voted best bartender in St. Louis Park about 14 years ago.
Gwen Wellner
Director of Programming
Gwen Wellner
Director of Programming
A little about your job…
As the Director of Programs, my job at Parkshore is to create an environment of involvement, energy, inclusiveness, diversity, meaning and FUN!!! I develop my programs and activities to cater to the specific interests of the residents who live in our community. My programs are designed to offer familiar interactions with a splash of flair and a little pizzazz (that’s me). I absolutely LOVE what I do!
What are your residents’ favorite activities?
A favorite resident program would have to include Discussion groups. We have several of these groups currently running. There is an Enquirer’s group that comes together on a weekly basis and as a group they choose the topics that they research. It is an excellent group for those with inquisitive minds. We also have regularly scheduled TED Talks which we watch on a Big Screen television and have conversations about when they are over. The TED Talks offer a wide range of topics; including Joy, Self-Worth, New Innovations, Health Issues, Classical Music, Arts and the list goes on and on. Of course, I must also include our daily Time For Chat Happy Hour Socials, when the residents come together at the end of the day just to visit and socialize with their neighbors for a while. Quite often these chats involve a wee bit of wine. This social hours a great opportunity to get to know one another indoors as well as outdoors when the weather is suitable.
How do you decide what programs & activities to offer?
We’ve needed to make some changes in the way that we host larger events at Parkshore, but we’ve been creative in our offerings of “Walk-Through” New Year’s Eve parties, “Up and Active” sports challenges, “Hallway Catering”, and Desktop challenges like “Wheel of Fortune” and “Spelling Bee’s”. It won’t be long before we get back to our community Annual Gala Event and Holiday Wassail Party, which are both elegant and festive.
What is your favorite activity to participate in with residents?
I think if I had to choose, I really enjoy leading the Laughter Yoga group with our Parkwood residents. I feel so good after that group! A good reason for that is because I can tell that I have really connected and touched the hearts of everyone who attends. They are smiling, they are energized and they are happy to be there; all of which makes me very happy too! My Freestyle Dance group with the Parkshore residents makes me feel the same way; happy, light and FREE to do whatever we like with great music!
What sets your programming apart from the competition?
We do our best to be inventive and original in our program development. It’s important that each resident feels as though the program was created especially for them. Our connectivity sets us apart from other communities.
More About Gwen…
As for me, well, I have a good balance in my life. I can sit down to read for hours; I can watch three good movies in a row; I can take long walks; I get excited when I win thousands of points on the games on my phone apps; I enjoy a good phone conversation with my friends; I love sitting on my cabin deck watching my husband mow the lawn and my absolute favorite place to travel is Mexico.
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents?
I am known to have a superpower of “mind reading” when it comes to knowing what my kids are up to. Residents might be surprised to hear that I once trapped gophers along city roads to sell their feet for money when I was a young girl. I’m not sure if that skill has helped me with my current position but it makes for a good story!
Scott Hermann
Director of Wellness
Scott Hermann
Director of Wellness
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community?
I was interning at a senior community and an athletic training facility back in 2005. I thought about how it had been awhile since our last recession and I figured that I would stick to training seniors because they would be less effected by downswings in the economy. It turns out that it is really gratifying as well. I have never regretted my choice to work exclusively with the senior community population. It’s probably the most challenging population to work with but I welcome the challenge.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role?
My degree is in Health and Exercise Science. I have several certifications including Group fitness and Personal training through ACE.
What is the best part of your workday?
Working one on one with residents.
What is your favorite resident memory or story?
I worked with a gentleman about 10 years ago who was completely bed bound. He didn’t have the motivation to work with any of the Physical Therapists. For some reason I motivated him to exercise and he regained his ability to walk. After 2 or 3 months he moved back from a care center to his home in Brooklyn Center. The PTs, nurses and physicians were truly amazed and complemented me on that success. I was only in my 1 st or 2 nd year so I didn’t realize how rare of an accomplishment that was at the time. Looking back I cans see that it was truly an amazing transformation.
What sets your programming apart from the competition?
You’ll hear me say, “What sets our community apart from every other senior living community that I have worked at are the residents. They are the most active and interesting group of people I have ever encountered.”. I drive quite a distance to work here because of the residents and staff. The people here are excellent.
More About Scott…
In my free time, I absolutely love to play, compose and record music. It’s really a fun hobby for me. I enjoy playing sports and being active. I don’t spend too much time watching things on TV. I guess I’d rather do than watch. One thing from my bucket list is to go in a shark tank and view Great White sharks in person. I can’t imagine how much of an adrenaline rush that would be. I better do it while I’m still young.
Cindi Valland
Clinical Director
Clinical Director
I started in March as the interim and in June in an official capacity.
A little about your job…I have been a nurse for 25 + years. I worked in the hospital for 15 years in ICU and PACU, was the Director of Professional Services for a home care agency for 10 years, and I have worked in Assisted Living for the last few years.
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community? My experiences as a bedside nurse, critical care nurse, and nurse leader have all shaped my career. It helped me to decide my true passion which is working with families and older adults. I enjoy teaching them about maximizing their health and enjoy spending time to get to know each of them and their families. My goals are to provide exceptional patient care that is family-centered, and patient focused.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role? Life experience.
What is the best part of your workday? When a resident walks into my office, sits down and just wants to chat for a while.
What is your favorite resident memory or story? Sitting down with the residents for breakfast, having coffee and listening to them tell stories about their life.
What makes your community stand out from your competition. We have amazing teamwork in our building. All of us working for one main cause…the resident and their needs.
More About Cindi…
Here are some ideas on what you could tell us about yourself:
Favorite Movie? Armageddon
Favorite Book? Anything Nora Roberts
Favorite Sports Team(s)? Vikings
Favorite bands? Pitbull, Panic at the Disco, AC/DC, Tom Petty, Aerosmith, Elton John
Top travel destination on your list? Fiji, Cannes, France
Do you have any pets? 3 Beagles, Dad (Brutus), son (Jack) and daughter (Nightmare). Mom died a few years back.
If you could have a superpower – which one, would you choose and why? Heal everyone. Nobody should have to be sick, especially children.
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents? I live in the house I grew up in with my daughter, granddaughter and son-in -law. Plus 3 dogs and a free range chicken.
AND/OR if you rather:
Tell us a little about yourself. (Approx 100 words) Whatever you want to share. Education, family, hobbies, where you have lived, life motto, you name it.
Georgia Klotz
Director of Reflections
Your Content Goes Here
Georgia Klotz
Director of Reflections
What sparked your desire to work with those living with dementia?
Prior to working with those living with dementia I worked with a variety of different populations. After spending time with various groups of people I realized that dementia care is something I’m really passionate about. Dementia is very complex and each case is different in its own way, and I enjoy having the opportunity to use my knowledge and skills to provide a therapeutic outlet for those living with dementia while they navigate their diagnosis. It is important for me to be able to provide extra care and assistance for my residents, but to do so while still promoting independence and autonomy.
What training or education helped prepare you for this career?
I graduated from The University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Therapeutic Recreation. I am also a National Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). My education and training helped me prepare for this career in many ways. I was taught how to use treatment interventions, leisure education, and creative programming to promote a satisfying and purposeful lifestyle. I have worked with many different populations and I believe this has helped me to overcome some of the challenges I am faced with.
How would you describe the job of “Reflections Director”?
In my eyes the Reflections Director oversees the basic day to day operations of the neighborhood. I work closely with the Reflections nurse and the Resident Assistants. Although I am not the direct supervisor of the RA’s, I work very closely with them to ensure that our residents are receiving quality care. I oversee the Reflections Coordinator and work closely with her to plan, prepare, and implement all of our daily programming and activities. I am the go-to person for the families of our residents. If they have any questions or concerns about their loved one or general reflections neighborhood inquires, they come to me and I do my best to assist them.
What are your residents top 3 favorite activities?
My residents LOVE to go outside, do anything that involves music, and any type of snack/drink social hour.
How do prospective residents and their families know it is time to move to Dementia Care?
Families might realize it’s time to move their loved one to a dementia care neighborhood when they start to really feel stressed about caring for their loved one, keeping them safe, and realize they need more care than they can provide. Here in Reflections, we know this isn’t an easy conclusion to come to, but we truly see the importance of finding a safe and supportive environment for a person living with dementia.
What are the benefits of moving to a dementia care neighborhood versus trying to take care of a loved
one on your own?
There are a lot of benefits to moving a loved one to a dementia care neighborhood. This allows the caregiver to be able to step back from the “caregiver role”, and enjoy their loved one and support them through this journey. You can focus on your relationship with your loved one while our staff provide the care. Your loved one will also enjoy meeting new neighbors, interactive programming, and much more.
What one thing do you wish prospective families knew?
I wish prospective families knew how much the staff here genuinely care about the residents! We come to work every day ready to provide outstanding care and services.
What makes your community stand out from the competition?
Specifically, for Parkshore, I think our location is one of the things that makes us stand out from the competition. We are close to shopping, restaurants, and more. Our building backs up to a beautiful park with a lake in the middle and there are walking paths all around. We utilize this space whenever we can, and our residents absolutely love it. Also, the fact that there is a specialized position to oversee the dementia care neighborhood. Not all communities have this luxury, so for us here it’s really something special and is very beneficial to our families and residents.
More About Georgia…
I grew up in Minneapolis, MN, and then went to college at The University of Iowa. I graduated with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation. I loved my time at Iowa! After college my boyfriend and I moved to Chicago, IL, where we lived for just under two years. We then decided it was time to move back home and be closer to family. We are currently in the process of buying our first home and are very excited to get moved in and settled. I have a younger brother who is currently a sophomore at Iowa State University and he is on the football team there. I’m so proud of him and all he has accomplished! Prior to working in senior living, I spent most of my time working with people with disabilities. In college I worked as Direct Support Professional (DSP) at an adult cay center, and then after graduation I began working at a Special Recreation Association in Chicago providing recreational programs for kids, adults, and seniors with disabilities. I love my line of work and am so happy to do what I do every day.
Do you have pets?
I have a dog named Nyla and a cat named Nova. They are both so sweet and loving. They each have their own personalities and complement each other greatly. Although they didn’t get along at first, they are now happy to be sisters.
Are you a sports fan? If so favorites teams?
My favorite sport to watch is Football. I like the MN Vikings and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Go hawks!
Favorite Movie?
My favorite movie is Hairspray.
Favorite Book?
My favorite book is Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Favorite Sports Team(s)?
MN Vikings and Iowa Hawkeyes
Top 2 favorite bands?
I don’t have a favorite band, I love a lot of different types of music.
Top travel destination on your list?
Iceland
If you could have a superpower – which one would you choose and why?
If I could have a super power, I would choose the ability to travel in time, either back or to the future! I’m a person who likes to plan, so to know exactly how things are going to go would be great for me.
Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise your residents?
After graduating college I lived in Chicago for just under 2 years.
Do you have a favorite resident memory or story?
Last year for Halloween we couldn’t have a party due to the pandemic, so instead our residents and staff dressed in their best costumes and we had a Halloween parade! It Those who dressed up walked the halls tossing candy and showing off their costumes while spectators enjoyed their treats and voted for their favorite costume.
Olivia Eliason
Housekeeping Supervisor
Olivia Eliason
Housekeeping Supervisor
A little about your job…
What sparked your desire to work in a senior living community? I was fortunate to have a set of grandparents that took on a huge role in my upbringing and just being with them so much of the time made me realize how much I love the senior community. Also, the life lessons that they taught are priceless to me.
Did you go through any special training or education that helps with your current role?
For my previous job I did take classes to get my food and lodging license for the state of Minnesota.
What makes your community stand out from your competition?
We have a great group of staff that comes in day in and day out to care for our seniors and make it feel like a home for the seniors and a second home for us workers. In housekeeping we strive to go above and beyond to keep the community clean, healthy, and safe for our residents and staff.
More About Olivia…
I am originally from Wisconsin, not a packer fan though, and moved to the Twin Cities with my husband in 2000. We have 1 son who now lives in Las Vegas, Nevada and have lived in our wonderful community of Chanhassen for the past 17 years.
Favorite Sports Team(s)?
Tampa Bay for Tom Brady of course
Favorite bands?
Anything 80s
Top travel destination on your list?
Anywhere tropical
Do you have any pets?
Sadly no. Our 16 years old yorkie poo passed away this past summer. But soon we would love another dog. They are such great and loyal companions.
Do you have any pets?
I actually have Allergies to most cleaning products, so I was wearing a mask long before covid due to that reason.
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