It's been a festive holiday season at The Vincent Senior Living, from residents helping to decorate the community to local students performing musical classics during special presentations.
Frances Dabney, community relations director, said The Vincent staff begins planning Christmas events several months in advance, taking into account successful events from previous years as well as feedback from residents.
"The ugly sweater parties were a big success last year, so we knew we wanted to repeat that again this year," Dabney said. "If something wasn't as successful, we try something different. We also hear what residents have to say about what they want to do. This month, our Independent Living residents took a day trip to Natchitoches to see their Christmas lights and some famous sites in town. They all wore their matching Christmas shirts for the day. That trip actually came at the direction of our residents who wanted to have that experience together."
Dabney added that many residents helped decorate The Vincent property for the holidays, particularly those who live in the Independent Living portion of the community. This year, many helped place ornaments on trees in communal areas, and also decorated their own doors and apartment exteriors.
"They really like to be involved and they always start to get excited when the decorations come out and they see the staff wearing Christmas-themed clothes," Dabney said. "It really brings out the holiday spirit in everyone."
At The Vincent, the holidays are also a time for the community to celebrate with residents. Dabney said several schools have visited the community to sing carols for residents. Also, partner organizations have participated in events such as Christmas-themed bingo sessions, special meals and gingerbread house competitions.
"It's such a big deal for a community like this to have support from other organizations and people in Lafayette," Dabney said. "It takes a village to provide a positive daily experience for everyone, and it's wonderful to see so many people want to pour into their lives. It's a well-rounded approach to care for residents, and it helps to keep them social and active."
The Vincent Senior Living offers communities for Assisted Living, Cottage Living, Independent Living and Memory Care. It is located at 2201 Verot School Road in Lafayette. To learn more or schedule a tour, call 337-345-4105 or visit vincentseniorliving.com.