Community Groups Shape Residents’ Lifestyles at Trillium Woods

The best senior living communities understand the many benefits residents experience when they give back and work in collaborative ways with one another. That’s why Trillium Woods in Plymouth, Minnesota has established a committee system that empowers the residents to work together to help shape the lifestyle and activities at the community. Providing such a structure for self-determination fosters a sense of independence, self-reliance and personal control—all elements seniors look to maintain as they move from their homes into a community setting.

Community-Wide Giving Builds Important Ties

Sarah Bell, resident of Trillium Woods, takes advantage of many opportunities to get involved, such as serving on the Encore Committee, Library Committee and Food and Beverage Committee. Encore is a community garage sale of sorts that raises funds that can be applied for and used by residents. The Library Committee is very active maintaining its collection of books, curating new volumes, hosting events, and creating a welcoming space for residents to work on the exquisite, hand crafted collectible Stave puzzles a fellow resident generously shares. The Food and Beverage Committee makes decisions about everything from dining room décor to hours of operation.

“Encore has a terrific committee. The whole thing is just fun. It’s a lot of work, but we have a million laughs and love working together. It’s a very fun group,” says Sarah. “We have a big say in how Trillium Woods operates, which speaks to the wonderful culture at the community.”

Committee Connections Cultivate Healthy Living

The committee system benefits the entire Trillium Woods community, but there are also individual, more personal benefits for those who participate in the committees as well. Studies consistently indicate that seniors who are actively involved in service or volunteerism experience significant physical, emotional and cognitive health benefits. It connects them with their neighbors and peers, increases their circle of friends, and allows them to avoid a sense of isolation that can lead to depression.

“The culture at Trillium Woods features a particularly close, friendly relationship between the residents and associates, and the sale put on by the Encore Committee strengthens those ties. Encore embodies the community spirit at Trillium Woods,” says Sarah.

The lifestyle of residents who join committees or groups is shaped differently than those who don’t. By establishing a committee system that allows the residents themselves to help guide their day-to-day activities, Trillium Woods builds a culture of connectedness and cultivates a healthy and independent lifestyle.

To learn more about how the residents of Trillium Woods contribute to community well-being and have the opportunity to empower themselves and others, call (763) 553-7600 or submit a contact form via our contact us page!

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/what_seniors_get_from_giving_back

https://volunteer.ca/content/volunteering-and-older-adults-final-report