LECOM Senior Living Center
Title: Active Minds and Bodies: Fostering Senior Wellness With Books and Movement
Student Interns:
Breanna Taylor
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Noelle Thielman, PhD
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Community Preceptor:
Mary Styn, NHA
LECOM Senior Living Center
Community Site:
The LECOM Senior Living Center is a skilled nursing facility that provides both long-term and short-term care primarily for elderly residents, including those recovering from surgery or injury. Each resident has a private room and bathroom, and the facility is divided into neighborhoods with common areas designed to resemble a home setting. The SLC does not have specialized units such as memory care or rehabilitation floors, which offers a more integrated environment for residents.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student intern worked with LECOM Senior Living Center to enhance the quality of life for residents by focusing on initiatives that promoted cognitive engagement and physical well-being. One of the intern’s contributions was the introduction of a book cart, designed to address the lack of access to large print books. This initiative provided residents with easy access to reading materials that supported their mental stimulation and emotional health. In addition, the intern developed a physical activity program to support residents transitioning from physical therapy. By offering home exercise routines and facilitating self-sufficient exercise sessions, the program helped residents maintain their physical independence and improve their overall mobility. These activities were designed to empower residents, helping them stay engaged both mentally and physically while fostering independence and well-being in their daily lives.
Reflections
“This summer shaped my perspective as a future physician by teaching me the value of looking at health holistically — focusing not only on physical recovery, but also on emotional and cognitive well-being. This experience reinforced the significance of patient-centered care and showed me how small, thoughtful interventions can have a substantial impact on a patient’s independence and mental health. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to and learn from the residents and staff at LECOM Senior Living Center.”
Breanna Taylor