Heritage Manor News: May is a fun month

(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted by Patricia Duplechin, resident activity director at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Ville Platte. This column runs every Sunday in The Gazette.)
As an activity professional, it is vital to provide engaging outings, activities and events that energize our residents and encourage their passion for life. A fun outing motivates residents to get up in the morning. It is fulfilling, inspiring and encouraging to lead to an active and full life. It helps to share a positive view of aging. People with a sense of purpose in life live longer. It is easy for people to feel powerless and isolated when they are confined to the same spaces each day. It may seem like a small thing, but the effects that pets have on older adults is quite substantial. They not only offer unconditional love, but also give their owners someone to look after and care for. This sense of responsibility inspires older adults to take better care of themselves.
The month of May has many fun events planned. We celebrate Mother’s Day with a trip to the movies and an award for the most active mother. All mothers are honored at this celebration. Nursing Home Week will also be celebrated in May. Cookouts will be held at the facility and several outings are planned throughout the month, such as picnic in the park, senior day at the Northside Civic Center and bingo blowout in Opelousas.
The staff of Heritage Manor wishes a Happy Birthday this week to Audrey Freeman.
The staff of Heritage Manor welcomes Rita Robinson to the facility.
The staff of Heritage Manor sends get-well wishes to Bobby Sylvester and Doritha Ardoin.
Congratulations to Warren Fontenot, Resident of the Month for May, and Shakela Moton, Employee of the Month.
Many thanks to all of our devoted volunteers for their time.