Fostering Connection and Belonging in Senior Living: Cecelia Hitzke

Send us a textDiscover the heart and soul of geriatric social work with our special guest, Sheryl of Utah case Management. Sheryl is a seasoned expert in dementia care who discovered her affinity for senior care early on when adopting a grandparent in elementary school and honed through years of professional dedication. She is an experienced care expert, author, and advocate for elevated dementia care in the state of Utah. Throughout the episode, Sheryl shares poignant stories that highlight the unique challenges and rewards of working with individuals with dementia. Her experiences illuminate the enduring nature of core emotions and memories, even as other cognitive functions decline. She provides thoughtful strategies for addressing the needs of dementia patients, emphasizing the power of empathy and understanding. Sheryl also offers invaluable advice for caregivers, stressing the significance of education, training, and a supportive approach that prioritizes safety, security, and love.You don't want to miss this special episode with Sheryl!Support the show

Send us a textHappy Thanksgiving!! 2024 was a special year here at SCA and Helperly and we hope it has been the same for you! Enjoy this short message from Caleb reflecting on the year, and including special messages from the rest of the office staff about our favorite parts of the Holiday. See you in December!dSupport the show

Send us a textDiscover the remarkable journey of Kayden Grenko, a trailblazer in senior care and the Director of Business Development at CareLife. With a fascinating background in healthcare administration and a wealth of hands-on experience Kayden offers invaluable insights into understanding and revolutionizing senior care. This episode discusses the unique value of intimate community settings and the diverse skill set required to thrive in this industry.Join us as we explore the importance of team development and innovative approaches to senior living. Kayden reveals how aligning team members' personal goals with their roles can lead to success, and challenges traditional activities by suggesting fresh, engaging alternatives. We also turn our attention to the mental well-being of both residents and staff, as Kayden shares strategies for fostering purpose-driven living and empathetic leadership. Learn how these approaches can enhance job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and transform communities.Support the show

Send us a textJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Teepa Snow! A pioneering force in dementia care and the creator of the Positive Approach. With her deep roots in occupational therapy, Teepa has reshaped how we perceive and engage with individuals living with dementia, focusing on empathy and personalized interaction. This episode offers invaluable insights for caregivers and professionals, underscoring the critical importance of relationship-building and adapting techniques to meet individuals where they are.We discuss the challenges of addressing agitation and distress in senior living spaces, advocating for curiosity over judgment.  The conversation highlights the need for proactive communication and engagement to manage expectations and prevent crises, while also recognizing the burdens faced by caregivers. Exploring the intersection of technology, creativity, and dementia care, we emphasize that technology should complement rather than replace human interaction. Teepa shares her thoughts on the importance of adaptability and understanding individual needs when integrating technological tools, such as music and TV, into care practices. We also delve into preparing for a career in dementia care, stressing the importance of flexibility, creativity, and systemic changes in caregiver training. Support the show

Send us a textHow does our past shape the way we work and lead? On today's episode we talk with Ezra Torres our first return guest to Senior Care Academy. Ezra talks about how his international travel and family examples have built him into the leader he is today.  Our conversation dives into how selecting team members driven by compassion can create a culture of genuine care. We also discuss the importance of cultivating communities where older adults can connect over their unique challenges and joys. Plus, we explore the delicate balance of integrating technology in senior care, ensuring safety without infringing on privacy.Discover the behind-the-scenes journey of developing a privacy-respecting fall detection system, and meet the passionate team at Care Life. This episode concludes with a lively discussion on the power of friendship and collaboration, as Caleb and Ezra reflect on their shared commitment to harnessing the wisdom of older generations to revolutionize the industry. Join us for an episode filled with insights, compassion, and a vision for a brighter future in senior care.Support the show

Send us a textJoin us as we explore the inspiring world of senior living with Cecilia Hitzke, executive director at Creekside Senior Living. Originally on a path to become a hospital administrator, Cecilia’s passion shifted to senior living after her impactful experiences as a hospice volunteer. Her journey from activity assistant to executive director has been fueled by her dedication and creative background in music, which brings an extra layer of joy and innovation to her leadership style.In this episode, Cecilia shares how she’s boosting staff morale, creating a positive work environment, and championing meaningful resident engagement through initiatives like resident ambassador groups and cultural events. As a board member of the Utah Assisted Living Association, Cecilia also discusses her advocacy for affordable senior care and the importance of education in the field.We touch on empowering seniors to stay socially engaged and the surprising ways they’re adapting to technology through online classes. Cecilia also offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career in senior living, highlighting the deep fulfillment that comes from building connections. Plus, we end with a piece of advice from a Creekside resident that reminds us all: making one meaningful connection each day can make a world of difference.Support the show

Send us a textWhat if you could transform a company from a $500 million market cap to an astounding $5 billion? Join us on the Senior Care Academy podcast as we welcome Dave Sedgwick, President and CEO of CareTrust REIT, to unravel the strategic maneuvers behind this impressive growth. Dave gives us a firsthand account of CareTrust's evolution since 1999 starting under the umbrella of Ensign Group. Dave shares insight into how REITs function and includes his tips for leadership success. Our conversation with Dave also sheds light on the delicate balance between leadership and growth.  Dave shares career advice on becoming invaluable within your organization.  Learn how empowering team members can lead to remarkable business success. Discover insights into Dave's leadership style, including the importance of achieving results while nurturing relationships. His journey offers valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to lead in the dynamic environment of real estate investment and senior care.As we look ahead, Dave provides a glimpse into the future role of REITs in meeting the rising demand for senior living facilities.Support the show

Send us a textExperience the journey of Katie Tanner, our guest whose path led her from zookeeping to head of HR at multiple firms. Through her unique perspective, Katie uncovers the essential role empathy plays in effective HR management and shares her commitment to being an approachable ally for employees. Her insightful concept of "coaching up or coaching out" provides a fresh take on aligning individual growth with organizational culture.Discover the intricacies of scaling a company from 11,000 to 35,000 employees in just two years without compromising staff morale or patient care. Katie shares her experiences with creative employee appreciation strategies that bypass bureaucratic hurdles, offering a playbook for those navigating rapid organizational growth. Our conversation delves into the high-stakes world of mergers and acquisitions, particularly in healthcare, where aligning cultures and maintaining transparent communication are crucial for success.Join us as we unpack the critical role HR plays during organizational transitions, focusing on early involvement and proactive strategies to ensure workforce stability and satisfaction. Katie's firsthand experiences in the post-acute care sector shed light on the challenges and opportunities of moving between organizations of different sizes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to gain valuable insights into the complexities of healthcare and HR leadership, as well as practical advice on navigating similar challenges in their own professional journeys.Support the show

Send us a textEver wondered what it truly takes to make a meaningful impact in senior care? In this episode, Monique shares how her close-knit family background and unique professional experiences equipped her with the skills to connect deeply with seniors, transforming her roles into a fulfilling career path. Her story is a testament to the power of genuine passion and dedication in reshaping lives, both of caregivers and the elderly they serve.Explore the heartwarming and challenging aspects of building relationships with seniors as Monique recounts her experiences. We also address the emotional challenges caregivers face, especially during end-of-life care, and how maintaining a positive outlook can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. It's a reminder of the profound impact caregivers can have when they embrace each client's unique journey.Support the show

Send us a textJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Cameron Harris, the Chief Sales Officer at Sal Management, as he takes us through his remarkable journey from EMT to executive leadership in the senior care industry. Cameron's story is not just about a career shift but a heartfelt mission to transform healthcare culture through compassionate business practices. You'll learn how his experiences at places like Silverado ignited his passion for senior care and how he balances empathy with business acumen to improve the lives of seniors. Ever wondered what it takes to truly excel in sales, especially in senior living? Cameron demystifies the world of sales by focusing on problem-solving and genuine customer care. Forget everything you know about pushy sales tactics; this episode emphasizes understanding customer needs through meaningful questions and compassionate interactions. Discover how ethical sales practices can not only achieve business goals but also enhance the quality of life for seniors. We also touch on the importance of emotional engagement and how leveraging technology can foster community growth and reduce reliance on referral agencies.Curious about what the future holds for senior care sales? From the power of persistence and resilience to the significance of emotional engagement, Cameron shares invaluable insights that can transform your approach. Learn about the importance of feedback through personalized calls and performance reviews to continuously improve your sales strategies. Plus, get a glimpse into the exciting developments at SAL Management, including the remodel of the Beaumont Assisted Living facility. Finally, Cameron highlights the value of engaging with the Utah Assisted Living Association (UALA) for networking and legislative support, reinforcing his commitment to advancing the senior care industry. Tune in and be inspired by Cameron's dedication to making a positive impact.Support the show