For residents living with memory loss, Angie believes there is something particularly meaningful about an experience that can be enjoyed exactly as it is happening. “It’s very in the moment,” she said. “You do not have to remember what happened yesterday to enjoy it that day.”
And when other team members see leaders getting
involved, Angie hopes it sends a simple message.
“It doesn’t matter what department or title you have,” she said. “Anyone has the ability to make someone’s day.”
Sometimes, those moments even unlock stories. Residents have reminisced about gardening and shared other memories inspired by what they were seeing.
Kristen sees that philosophy come to life when team members outside of Life Enrichment approach her with an idea of their own or ask if they can lead an activity.
Creating meaningful experiences for residents, she believes, belongs to everyone.
For Life Enrichment Coordinator Kristen Recchia, the experience is a reminder that a sense of wonder doesn't have an age limit. “Many of us share the experience of catching butterflies when we were children,” Kristen said. “Who is to say we can’t experience that joy again at any age?” But perhaps what makes Yorkville's butterfly project most special has little to do with butterflies at all. Angie is a nurse. Her primary responsibility is ensuring residents receive excellent care. But to her, caring for someone extends beyond their medical needs. “I want them to feel comfortable and connect with me outside of the nursing role too,” Angie said. “It helps build relationships.” Residents remember her for the butterflies. They remember when she brings her
That might mean raising butterflies. It could be bringing in a beloved pet, sharing a hobby or simply sitting down for a conversation. Angie’s advice to team members who have something they love and wonder whether residents might enjoy it too?
“DO IT!” she said. “You never know who you will connect with by doing it.”
At Yorkville, it started with a handful of caterpillars.
A few weeks later, there were butterflies taking flight — and an entire community gathered to watch them go.
dog to visit. Those shared interests become conversation starters and opportunities to know one another differently.
CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | FALL FLOURISH 2026 19
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