Wellness Program Brings a New Approach to Whole-Person Wellness Across ThriveMore
Wellness means something different to every person.
For some, it's regaining strength after a health challenge. For others, it's finding purpose through service, connecting with friends, spending time in nature or simply maintaining independence. At Brookridge, wellness has become all of those things and more through the launch of a new wellness initiative that will eventually expand to every ThriveMore community.
The program, developed as part of an organization-wide commitment to holistic wellness led by Chief Operating Officer Jessica McCollum, was formally introduced during a celebration at Brookridge. Residents, team members and partners gathered to enjoy live music, healthy refreshments and testimonials that highlighted the many ways wellness shapes their lives. Dana Reynolds, Brookridge's Wellness Director, is leading the team launching the pilot phase of the initiative before it expands across ThriveMore next year.
“Wellness means a lot of things to a lot of people, but is much more inclusive than any of us initially think about,” Dana Reynolds told attendees. “…Wellness is the active pursuit of physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.”
The ThriveWell program reflects that broader definition by bringing together exercise, nutrition, healthy aging education, social engagement, emotional wellbeing and spiritual connection under one coordinated framework. Its goal is to support both residents and team members while creating opportunities for healthier, more fulfilling lives. The initiative aligns with ThriveMore's emphasis on whole-person wellbeing and community connection.
Not Just Exercise
One of the strongest themes that emerged during the launch event was that wellness extends far beyond physical fitness.
Throughout the celebration, residents shared personal stories about the impact Brookridge's wellness offerings have had on their lives. Resident Connie Turner reflected on how her understanding of healthy aging changed after moving to Brookridge and becoming involved in wellness programs.
Before arriving at Brookridge, Connie said healthy aging meant little more than regular doctor visits, eating nutritious food and trying to exercise a few times a week. Participation in Brookridge programs expanded that perspective dramatically.
Connie described trying activities she never expected to enjoy, from aqua fitness and Tai Chi to walking groups, balance classes and chair exercises. Those experiences not only improved physical wellbeing but also created a renewed sense of joy and purpose.
"The most incredible thing that I'm doing, the absolutely most incredible thing I'm doing, is I'm smiling more than I've ever smiled in my entire life," the resident said. "I enjoy getting up every day and finding an activity to do."
Stories like this illustrate one of the central goals of the wellness program: helping people discover activities, connections and habits that enhance quality of life at every stage of aging.
The Power of Social Connections
For resident Bonnie Doerr, one of the most important dimensions of wellness is socialization.
During the event, she spoke about the friendships and connections that have become an essential part of life at Brookridge.
"I think most of us are now seeing the statistics about one of the most important things about senior health and longevity is socialization," she said.
She described the everyday interactions that create a sense of belonging across the community, from conversations on sidewalks and card games in the café to music events, wellness classes and spontaneous encounters with neighbors.
"Socialization here is a big deal," she said. "I want to thank the staff for that because you find ways to make that space for us."
Bonnie also highlighted the importance of those relationships for residents navigating life transitions or living without a spouse or partner.
"It's really special for those of us who are alone now and don't have a partner," she said. "You don't know how much that means to those of us who are in that situation."
Her testimony underscored a growing body of research showing that social engagement plays a vital role in healthy aging, emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life.
A Community-Wide Commitment
As the program continues to develop, Dana Reynolds emphasized that resident feedback will remain at the center of every decision.
“I want you to feel seen,” she said. “I want you to feel heard. I want you to feel appreciated, and we as a wellness committee, both resident and staff, want to lift you up to live the best life possible for as long as possible.”
She encouraged residents and team members alike to help shape the future of the program through participation, ideas and feedback.
"What we're doing moving forward is we are lifting you up," she said, adding that they are in the process of enhancing every single wellness activity through partnerships.
The vision includes expanded educational opportunities, partnerships with healthcare providers, nutrition initiatives, exercise options for varying ability levels and stronger collaboration among departments and resident-led groups. The goal is an inclusive wellness culture that supports every aspect of wellbeing.
Looking Ahead
While ThriveWell is beginning at Brookridge, its impact is intended to extend far beyond a single campus.
As the pilot program evolves, ThriveMore leaders will use feedback and outcomes from Brookridge to help guide implementation throughout the organization.
"This impacts you now as we pilot this through Brookridge, but it's going to impact so many more people because of you," Dana Reynolds told attendees.
That vision reflects ThriveMore's ongoing commitment to helping both residents and team members live healthier, more connected and more meaningful lives.