Activity Programming for Our Residents
March 9, 2023
Community life at The Hickman is designed to provide our residents with opportunities to socialize, engage in activities, and provide stimulating educational programming. The benefits of participating in activities include the following:
- Boost the immune system
- Sense of belonging
- Increase cognitive function
- Improve self-esteem
- Enhance mental health
- Improve flexibility and strength
Our Community Life Managers coordinate various activities that resonate with many varied personalities and interests, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. The resident gains a sense of purpose if the activity is resident-led. Some examples of our activities are:
- Exercise Classes
- Musical Entertainment
- Pet Visits
- Holiday Celebrations
- Monthly Birthday Celebrations
- Bingo
- Spiritual Programming
- Book Club
- Game Night
- Movie Night
Overall, Community Life at The Hickman provides our residents with a supportive and engaging environment in which to thrive in their later years.
Let’s Meet our Community Life Managers
STACEY FARRELL – Community Life Manager of Darlington
Hello, my name is Stacey and I have been with The Hickman for nearly five years! I am the Community Life Manager for our Darlington residents and I am also a Student Resource coordinator and Instructor. Additionally, I am a board-certified and state-licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/l). Through my education and specialized training as a COTA/L, I have gained a specific skill set that enables me to respond to the needs and nuances of activity planning for our residents in memory care. I have a strong connection with our Darlington residents and feel deeply grateful to work with them and their families.
I am also pleased to be directly involved with implementing a Montessori Inspired Lifestyle Program® created specifically for adults living with Dementia.
And while I have a special place in my heart for the residents of Darlington, I truly enjoy all residents of The Hickman and I am always happy to help! So, if you see me, please stop and say hello! I love to chat and get to know people! I am here Tuesdays through Saturdays and I will always make time to address your needs and concerns.
And last but certainly not least, I am very fortunate to work alongside Danielle Foley, Community Life and Volunteer Manager of The Greater Community. Together, we manage the Community Life Department and it has been an absolute pleasure! We complement each other in many ways and work diligently with our talented and caring staff to ensure an engaging activity program for all residents at the Hickman!
I look forward to many years of serving Hickman Residents and I am deeply grateful to be able to do so!
DANIELLE FOLEY – Community Life and Volunteer Manager of the Greater Community
I am pleased to have the opportunity to be the Community Life and Volunteer Manager of The Greater Community at The Hickman in West Chester. I was born and raised in Berwyn, PA, and went to college for my BFA in Theatre Arts at Miami University of Ohio. In 2011, I earned my Master of Arts degree in Dance/Movement Therapy at Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. I completed my board certification in Dance/Movement Therapy while working in the Adjunctive Therapy department at Friends Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. I bring to The Hickman 10 years of experience working in the Human Services field, providing programs and care for older adults. Along with my passion for creating engaging and meaningful programs, I provide a love of music and movement, a sense of humor, a kind heart, and listening ears.
Working alongside Stacey Farrell, Community Life Manager of the Darlington Neighborhood, is an honor. Together, we strive to ensure that our Community Life Department is the best that it can be for all The Hickman residents. We created complementary schedules so a Community Life Manager is present at The Hickman seven days a week! I am available Sunday – Thursday.
Thank you to all the residents for such a warm welcome and I look forward to meeting more family members. Please feel free to call me, email me, or visit anytime, I have an open-door policy!