Tockwotton on the Waterfront, a Rhode Island based, non-profit, assisted living and nursing community, engaged Drive to assist them in meeting specific goals laid out in their strategic plan.
Drive consultant, Arleen Smith and I, recently visited Tockwotton to conduct focus groups with staff, residents and family members. During one of the resident sessions we asked, “If you had a magic wand, what is one thing that would make Tockwotton an even better place to live?”
One of the responses surprised us!
Making Wishes Come True
Elizabeth, an assisted living resident, said “I’ve been wanting to ride on the 2-person bike since I moved here. That would make me so happy. I’m an agile woman so I think could do it.”
Later that day we sat down with President and CEO, Kevin McKay and the Assisted Living Administrator, Michaela McKay, to debrief them from our two days spent on campus. We shared some highlights, asked a bunch of clarifying questions, and made some simple quick success recommendations so that people knew they were being heard and supported right away, while Arleen Smith and I returned back to NJ to compile our findings in a more formalized summary.
In our eyes Elizabeth’s request was a beautiful testament to the wonderful care that Tockwotton is providing to their residents, and so we of course shared her magic wand request hoping that Elizabeth’s wish would come true. The very next day, Kevin found Elizabeth and said, “I’ll take you!” And he did.
The duo waited about a week until the weather was just perfect for a beautiful ride over the highway foot bridge from East Providence into Providence. Elizabeth shared, “We rode all around! I got to see things I haven’t seen in five years. I’m so appreciative! I felt so free to be out in the fresh air, not in a car or anything, but really out there with the wind in my face. It made me feel so good.” Elizabeth continued, “To ride with Kevin made it extra special too. He listens to everyone and is such a caring leader.”
Kevin added, “Next time we are heading south on the bike path. I thank Allison and Arleen for bringing Elizabeth’s request to me.”
Engaging Your Residents
Tockwotton on the Waterfront wholeheartedly believes in their philosophy of care that puts the resident first. While not every resident will have specific requests like Elizabeth, something that was relatively easy to carry out, we encourage you to really get to know your residents and what’s important to them. You might be surprised what fun and exciting opportunities await.
What would your residents want to do if they had a magic wand?
This article was written by team member, Allison Duda.
