April 14, 2023
Senior living has certainly changed over the past decade. An industry that once provided very little hands-on care has blossomed into a wonderful option for older adults. It now provides varying levels of assistance with residents’ activities of daily living, while arranging many opportunities for socialization and community. I am fortunate to work for Arrow Senior Living leading The Wildwood Senior Living team. I would like to share a little about my journey to becoming a senior living leader.
I was graduating with a business degree and not sure what I wanted to do. Friends were taking courses in Long Term Care Administration as a second major and I decided to join them. I enjoyed the scholastic side but wanted real life experience before deciding. After completing the college courses, I was accepted for an internship with a local Chattanooga, TN nursing home. The experience solidified my decision that senior living was the journey I wanted to take. I was hired by the same company and provided a unique opportunity to travel to different locations and eventually became involved with Continuing Care Retirement Communities.
I enjoy the daily interaction among residents, staff, and families. I believe in service above self and making a positive difference in other people’s lives. Arrow Senior Living hires for heart and trains for skill. I like Arrow’s thinking outside the parameters approach to providing senior living, including lots of creativity!
In the coming months and years, I think the industry will see more fallout from the COVID struggles and labor shortage, especially in the skilled nursing arena. COVID has taught us that we need to be flexible to meet resident and staff needs. Refining technology will be instrumental to continue a successful business model.
If someone is considering a career in senior living management I would say to them, if you have a heart for others, we can teach you skills.
Arrow Senior Living and I invite you to reach out and learn more about a career in senior living. Working in this industry can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. Whether you’re interested in caregiving, management, or another aspect of senior living, there are a wide variety of roles available that allow you to make a positive impact on the lives of older adults and their families.
The Wildwood Senior Living in Joplin, MO offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Freeman Health System and Mercy Hospital with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Twin Hills Country Club, Northpark Mall, Grand Falls, Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center – National Audubon Society, Spiva Center for the Arts, and George Washington Carver National Monument.
