S2.E1. Rita Porreca: How Resident Led Programming Transforms Community Culture

Artful Enrichment founder Cailey Massey joins the Smart Aging™ Podcast to discuss how art programs build confidence, encourage self-expression, and create meaningful connections for older adults, including those living with dementia.

Kelly Burnett discusses how senior living communities can move beyond mandatory dementia training to build confident, compassionate care teams that create better outcomes for residents and families.

When dementia becomes personal, everything changes. In this episode, Lisa Shauf shares how her father's early onset vascular dementia reshaped her understanding of care, connection, and meaningful engagement. From supporting families to creating purpose-driven activities, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone working with older adults living with dementia.

In this episode, Karina Stickle talks with Julianne Wenczel of Peconic Landing about how technology, AI, storytelling, and personalized experiences are helping senior living communities build trust before move-in. Discover practical ideas for creating meaningful connections while keeping the human touch at the center of the journey.

What happens when we stop planning activities and start creating experiences?In this episode of the Smart Aging Podcast, Karina Stickle talks with Joe Smith, Regional Activity Specialist and Activity Director at Carriage House Nursing and Rehab, about challenging traditional programming, trying new ideas, and giving residents more choice.From themed events and sensory spaces to community partnerships and social media success, Joe shares how thinking outside the box can create memorable moments and stronger resident engagement.If you're looking for fresh inspiration and permission to try something different, this episode is for you.

Karina and Abbie discuss how technology in senior living has shifted from optional to essential. They explore common barriers to adoption, the importance of ongoing education, and why repetition and real-life application matter. The episode highlights practical strategies like tech concierge support, building trust with residents, and positioning AI as a simple, helpful tool. The key takeaway: successful adoption comes from meeting residents where they are and supporting them consistently.

Purposeful programming in memory care is about moving beyond keeping residents busy and helping them feel useful, valued, and engaged. In this episode, Jennifer Boonstra shares Anthem Memory Care’s Pathways of Purpose approach, focusing on invitation, personalization, and everyday moments that create meaning.

In this episode, Karina chats with Rita Porreca about how resident-run programming is transforming life at Folkways. With over 100 resident-led committees, programming is driven by residents’ passions, creating stronger engagement, purpose, and community connection. Rita shares how this model works, why it’s so effective, and how other communities can start moving in this direction.

Building a strong volunteer program starts small. Dani McNally shares how one connection can grow into a thriving, intergenerational network by tapping into local schools, families, and community groups.Her approach focuses on simple recruitment, quick orientation, and matching volunteers to their strengths. The result is deeper resident connection, stronger community culture, and volunteers who keep coming back.

On this episode of the Smart Aging™ Podcast, Karina talks with Bruce Lipnick, founder of Stage Access, about bringing world-class performances into senior living. They explore how music supports memory, brain health, and connection—and how technology shaping the future of resident engagement.