Aging & Caregiving | Meet The Family
What makes a house a home? It's not the fancy furniture or shiny chandeliers, but the family who gathers there. At our senior living communities, our staff members are one of the main reasons why our residents feel so at home! Not only do they create a warm family atmosphere, they also understand the challenges faced by families caring for older adults. By fostering caring relationships, staff play an essential role in helping our residents navigate the journey of aging - from the very first visit, to the day they move into our community and every day after that! Read our "Meet the Family" spotlight below to see how Kelly Coppola makes our residents' home such a special place....
Meet Kelly Coppola!
Activities Director, Crosby Commons
I attended public school in my hometown of Stamford CT, where I met and married my high school sweetheart. We have been married 30 years and have three wonderful children, one daughter-in-law and my first granddaughter is on the way in just a few short months! I enjoy visits to the beach, baseball games, horseback riding, writing poetry, but my favorite time spent is simply time with my family. They are the light of my life.
I have worked as the Activities Director of Crosby Commons for two years now, though I've had ties to Wesley Village since 2003 when my grandmother moved into the Wesley Heights community. My mom, Jackie, is a Wesley Heights volunteer and my daughter is a volunteer on campus as well. If you want to learn more about how UMH has connected four generations of my family, click here.
What inspired you to work with older adults?
I always had an attraction to seniors. I think it has a lot to do with their past life experiences and their life stories which are truly a little bit of history. They are the most genuine, honest and sincere people in the world. I find true joy and reward in assisting them in various opportunities and witnessing their appreciation and happiness.
What's your day-to-day interaction with the residents?
I am the residents’ "go-to-girl". I plan, participate in and facilitate all of the residents’ daily activities, as well as of their out trips. I run a variety of activities and take pride in knowing exactly what each resident looks forward to doing. I like to incorporate mental stimulation, physical activity and fun all wrapped into one!
What do you think makes UMH different from other senior living communities?
Our Staff. Plain and simple. Our residents come first, and everyone here makes that a priority.
What do you like most about working in a senior living community?
What has been most meaningful for me is the many special relationships I have formed over the years with residents and the wonderful memories that we have shared. I enjoy hearing their life stories which helps me to gain a better understanding/appreciation of the lives they had before moving to UMH. It also helps me to learn what life was like for previous generations.
How do you help residents feel at home?
I’m a hugger and a listener. I know my residents all feel that I am approachable, helpful and a problem solver. If I can’t fix it, I’ll seek to find someone who will.
From your experience, what advice would you give families and their loved ones who are thinking about making a move to senior living?
Go with your gut. So many people tell us they felt an instant connection to our community from the minute they walked through the door. If you look at the big picture and realize that yes, your loved one still has their own home, but is all alone, not being active, socially or physically all day, you’ll see this truly isn't the quality of life you want for your loved one. Leaving your home is scary, but eventually their new assisted living apartment may become their beloved home.
Is there anything else you would like to mention about UMH, our residents or our staff members?
I feel I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to spend my days with such wonderful people. Residents and staff alike!
Our Blog is a 2016 Platinum Generations Award Winner! The Generations Award is an annual international competition for excellence in senior marketing recognizing professionals who have communicated to the 50+ Mature Markets.