In this episode, Amanda chats with Darrell D. Jones, Lieutenant General, USAF (Ret), President and CEO of Blue Skies of Texas in San Antonio, to discuss the pivotal role of reading in shaping effective leadership in aging services. Darrell shares how his passion for reading has shaped his approach to management and decision-making, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning.

Darrell offers book recommendations and shares some of the most impactful books that have influenced his leadership style. Additionally, he highlights how reading diverse perspectives helps foster an understanding of the complex needs of residents and staff, leading to more empathetic and innovative solutions.

This episode elevates the conversation on aging with takeaways like:

• Leadership Development: How reading can shape and refine leadership skills in aging services.
• Empathy and Innovation: Using diverse reading materials to better understand and serve residents' needs.
• Continuous Learning: The importance of staying current with industry trends and best practices through reading.
• Community Engagement: Leveraging reading programs to enhance resident life and staff development.
• Technology and Reading: Balancing traditional and digital reading methods in senior living communities.

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Special thanks to Darrell Jones and Blue Skies of Texas!

This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc. and Ziegler, along with LeadingAge Texas' Diamond Sponsors: Value First and Communities of Faith, RRG.

The episode was mixed and mastered by Maxwell Franko.

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

In this episode, Amanda talks with Robin Gonzalez, Director of Resident Health Services & Nurse Navigator at Westminster in Austin, Texas, about the community’s holistic, resident-centered approach to aging services. Robin shares how her social work and nursing background is beneficial in her role as she partners with residents and families to address health and wellness needs with minimal interruption to everyday community life. Robin's role at Westminster helps to reduce the stress often associated with location services and resources as residents' mental or physical needs change.

Robin also discusses Westminster's focus on employee well-being, highlighting initiatives like the associate's "Treehouse" break room and amenity space where associates have a gaming space, library, gym with locker rooms, and a new lunch room. By prioritizing the care of both residents and staff, Westminster fosters a thriving community where everyone feels supported and valued.

This episode elevates the conversation on aging with takeaways like:

• Holistic Resident Care: Combining social work and nursing for personalized, comprehensive support.
• Community and Belonging: Programs like the Navigator Program enhance resident and family experiences during transitions.
• 8 Dimensions of Wellness: A broad approach to resident well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual health.
• Employee Well-being: Prioritizing staff health with resources like the Tree House gym to maintain a balanced work environment.
• Sustainable Success: Emphasizing the connection between staff well-being and high-quality resident care.

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Special thanks to Robin Gonzalez and Westminster!

This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc. and Ziegler, along with LeadingAge Texas' Diamond Sponsors: Value First and Communities of Faith, RRG.

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

In Episode 5, Amanda interviews Dr. Hayley Moseley, Director of Campus Education, and Brian Parman, Director of The Point & Pavilion from CC Young in Dallas, Texas, about how the arts inspire ageless creativity. CC Young's Spirit is Ageless Art and Writing Contest is a premier example of a LeadingAge Texas member celebrating the incredible talents of older adults, challenging societal perceptions, and inspiring a (renewed) appreciation for the arts. Dr. Hayley and Brian highlight the contest's history and purpose, the joy and pride it brings to participants, and the power of creative expression in connecting people and processing life experiences.

Additionally, they also emphasize the importance of creating environments that spark creativity, redefining the perception of art and creativity, and challenging ageist stereotypes. The episode concludes with inspiring stories highlighting the transformative power of creativity.

CLICK HERE to learn more about CC Young's 2024 Spirit is Ageless Art and Writing Contest! CC Young residents and the general public, age 55 and better, are invited to submit their original art and writing creations. Online registration opens Thursday, August 1!

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This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like:

• Creative expression, such as art and writing, can bring joy, pride, and a sense of purpose to older adults, while also fostering connections and deeper relationships.
• Creativity is not limited to traditional art forms; it can be found in various activities, such as gardening, cooking, and even creating a welcoming environment for others.
• The process of creating is often more important than the final product, as it allows individuals to explore their identity, process emotions, and find meaning.
• Creating environments that encourage and support creativity is essential in promoting the well-being and engagement of older adults.
• Age should not limit one's ability to be creative and have fun; redefining the perception of aging and embracing childlike creativity can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life.
• Creative expression can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia, as it taps into the preserved abilities of the right side of the brain and allows for self-expression and connection.
• Challenging ageist stereotypes and reframing society's view of aging can help promote the value and importance of creativity in older adults.
• Intelligent risk-taking and trying new things, even if they seem unconventional, can lead to transformative experiences and personal growth.

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Special thanks to Dr. Hayley Moseley and Brian Parman & CC Young!

This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners:

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.