Summertime at JGS Lifecare Brings Joy and Connection
As the warmth of summer spreads across the JGS Lifecare campus, so too does the spirit of joy, renewal, and community. Residents have embraced the season through a wide range of engaging and meaningful activities, creating opportunities for connection, laughter, and growth—both personal and botanical!
Green Thumbs and Great Conversations
Jeff Eleveld, affectionately known as “The Plant Guy” from The Li’l Plant Shop in Plainville, brought his infectious enthusiasm and vast horticultural knowledge back to the Leavitt Family Jewish Home. As a horticulture therapist, Jeff delights residents by sharing fascinating and little-known facts about plants. Each session includes a hands-on planting activity, giving residents the chance to nurture their own greenery at home. His most recent visit focused on the humble potato—a tuber from an underground stem. (And yes, it’s a vegetable!)
Milestone Moments
We were thrilled to celebrate two extraordinary birthdays this spring! Anna Felendzer turned 100, and Carmelo Vega reached the incredible age of 102. Both were honored with official citations from the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate, presented by Representative Brian Ashe and Senator Jake Oliveira. These special gatherings were heartwarming celebrations of lives well lived, surrounded by family, friends, and joyful memories.
Planting Joy, Harvesting Happiness
Residents at both the Leavitt Family Jewish Home and Ruth’s House have been busy digging into their gardens, planting vegetables and flowers. There’s something deeply satisfying about getting your hands in the soil and watching tomatoes and cucumbers grow—and they’re as tasty in salads as they are rewarding to cultivate!
Engagement and Enrichment, Every Day
The Life Enrichment team continues to offer creative and varied programming that keeps residents active, engaged, and smiling. From parachute games and chair volleyball to karaoke sing-alongs, bingo, Pokémon tournaments, and mini-golf competitions, there’s something for everyone. Puppy therapy adds an extra dose of joy, offering comfort and laughter in equal measure.
Colorful Creativity and Musical Magic
Tie-dye fever swept through the Home as residents across all households created their own vibrant t-shirts. The end result? A rainbow of color and pride as residents wore their handcrafted creations!
We also welcomed a new performer, Sarah the Fiddler (Sarah Michel), whose high-energy show had toes tapping and spirits soaring. Blending classical, bluegrass, and Celtic styles, Sarah’s performance was more than music—it was a celebration of connection and joy. As Sarah says, “It’s about fun, feeling, and connecting with one another.” We can’t wait to have her back!
Honoring Our Heroes
Our annual Veterans BBQ was another unforgettable event, bringing resident veterans together for a meaningful afternoon of camaraderie, shared stories, and perfectly grilled food (thanks to Rob Whitten, President of JGS Lifecare). Veterans from the Longmeadow Department of Veterans Services also joined, creating a powerful atmosphere of mutual respect and community. Special thanks to Lena Vellturo, Longmeadow Veterans’ Service Officer, and Cheryl Gumlaw, Director of Life Enrichment, for their heartfelt coordination.
Technology Meets Tranquility
At Ruth’s House, the Sensory Room continues to offer a peaceful retreat. Featuring a cinematic projector that displays soothing visuals — from underwater marine scenes to breathtaking landscapes— the room helps reduce anxiety and create a calming space for relaxation and reflection.
Bingo games have now found a new home in the Sensory Room too—and they’ve never been more popular! When a resident wins, the room celebrates with lights and colors that change to mark the moment. It’s a simple but deeply meaningful way to create joy and support residents, especially those living with dementia.
Exploring the World Through VR
Residents are also discovering the wonders of virtual reality. With VR headsets, they can visit distant cities, enjoy nature walks, or relive familiar sights—all from the comfort of Ruth’s House. It’s an exciting and innovative way to stimulate the mind and spark imagination.
Summer has certainly brought its bloom to JGS Lifecare, not just in flowers and gardens, but in every smile, shared moment, and new memory created. Here’s to the joys of the season—and the people who make it so special.
