This month let’s discuss a subject that touches us all in some way – loneliness. For many of our beloved residents at Mountain Vista, we take great pains to address and heal this with our residents. Moving to a new home here can be a big adjustment that may bring a new sense of isolation. Friends and family might not visit as often as before, and the familiarity of home is replaced by new routines and faces.

For long-term residents, loneliness may still creep in.  While living at Mountain Vista is no longer new and disorienting, the passage of time itself can affect our residents. Folks may experience the pain of losing friends they’ve made along the way or losing touch with family and neighbors outside the walls.

Knowing this, our Mountain vista staff always go the extra mile to make this a warm home full of friends and support for our residents. For example, even if family can’t visit in person, we help folks connect through regular phone calls, video chats, and letters and postcards that make all the difference. Volunteers bring fresh energy and new relationships into our facilities. Whether it’s a local youth group, a pet therapy session, or simply a kind soul who enjoys reading aloud, these interactions are an important part of our services to our beloved residents.

Our staff also take a few extra moments to chat during mealtimes, regularly invite residents to group activities, or simply hold hands during tough moments to bridge the gap of loneliness.  Organized games, regular musical events, and group outings provide residents with chances to connect, creating friendships and a sense of belonging.

For our long-term residents, we fight loneliness by celebrating milestones together and regularly renewing our commitment to their well-being through family care conferences even if nothing is ‘wrong.’  It’s important for everyone, but especially those residents, to know they are not just a part of our community but are the very heart.

Loneliness is a challenge we here at Mountain Vista face together, with empathy, creativity, and dedication. By combining our efforts, we can ensure that every resident feels cherished and seen. Remember, it’s the warmth of human connection that truly makes a house a home.

Rev. Cindy Pincus
Director of Spiritual Care,
Mountain Vista Senior Living Community