Course Description:

The research on the "Baby Boomer" generation demonstrates an increase in life expectancy among other positive lifespan effects such as maintained independence. There is an important responsibility and public health goal of maintaining and improving the quality of life for aging populations through a whole-person wellness approach. With social isolation and mental health coming to the forefront of research, the phrase, "maximizing quality of life" must focus on several different dimensions. Practitioners have a responsibility and role in maximizing resident quality of life. To that end, incorporation of the Seven Dimensions of Wellness in the design of individualized programs and activities can act as a guide to meet resident needs and preferences. This approach of Whole-Person Wellness includes but is not limited to educational lectures and group classes to empower residents and the community with resources, group engagement options, and learning opportunities. As the wellness and healthcare worlds continue to intertwine, it is time for health care providers to amplify their efforts to enhance resident experience. The shift to wellness-focus within communities is becoming the norm within many senior living environments. Practitioners must be equipped to provide skilled care with a change of mindset to support residents throughout their lifespan as resident acuity changes and personal goals become more individualized to quality of life.