Summary
What’s it really like to work in senior living? This story from Atria Hertlin Place shows how team members like Emma turn everyday challenges into unforgettable moments – and why these roles are more than just jobs.
Working in senior living isn’t just about providing care or performing a service – it’s about enriching lives, building meaningful connections and creating lasting memories. Every day brings opportunities to make an impact on residents and their families.
If you’re considering a career in senior living, you might be wondering, “Will this job actually make a difference?” or “What’s it like to work with seniors every day?” The answer lies in a story like Mary’s – a real example of how senior living professionals create extraordinary experiences that go far beyond their job descriptions.
When your job becomes part of someone’s most precious moments
Mary lives at Atria Hertlin Place, and she was devastated when she couldn’t make it to her granddaughter Mikayla’s wedding in Pennsylvania. Her Parkinson’s symptoms made the trip too risky. But missing this family gathering provided an opportunity for one person to make a difference beyond what can be found on any other career path.
The challenge that became an opportunity
“I had hoped to have a family reunion and wedding celebration with my granddaughter,” Mary shares. “I was so looking forward to that.” It would have been a huge disappointment, but then her granddaughter Mikayla had an idea: “Why don’t we have another ceremony here with you and your friends!”
That’s when Emma Levesque stepped in to make it happen. She’s the Engage Life Director at Atria Hertlin Place – the person who plans activities and keeps everyone connected. Or as Emma puts it, “I’m in charge of the fun stuff!”
For this event, she went all in. “We made a little aisle in our cafe by the fireplace,” Emma explains. “We set up a refreshment counter with champagne and cookies. We decorated and made the common area into a beautiful little wedding space.”
What senior living careers actually look like day-to-day
For job seekers wondering about the reality of working in senior living, Mary’s wedding story illustrates the creative problem-solving and community building that defines these roles.
Engage Life Director responsibilities in action:
- Event planning & coordination: Transforming common spaces into celebration venues
- Family liaison: Working with residents’ families to create heart-warming moments
- Community building: Bringing 30 residents and staff together for smiles and connections
- Creative problem-solving: Finding innovative ways to overcome physical limitations
- Emotional support: Ensuring no resident misses life’s important occasions
The unexpected moment that changes everything
When Mary arrived at the ceremony, the family had a surprise: She would officiate the wedding.
“I was so excited!” Mary laughs. “The whole time, everyone just kept smiling. All I saw was smiles.”
Why this matters for your career decision
Job satisfaction that goes beyond paychecks
Working in senior living means being part of experiences like this regularly. Emma’s role wasn’t just coordinating an event – she was preserving family bonds and creating joy.
Skills you’ll develop in senior living careers:
- Crisis management: Turning disappointments into bright spots
- Event management: Creating meaningful experiences with limited resources
- Interpersonal communication: Working with residents, families and healthcare teams
- Creative problem-solving: Finding innovative solutions to complex challenges
- Emotional intelligence: Supporting residents through life’s ups and downs
The community impact you’ll make
This wasn’t just about one resident – it was about bringing an entire community together. Residents and staff showed up to celebrate, which proves that senior living jobs let you build real communities, not just provide services.
“Everyone should remember that seniors don’t just have to behave, you know. We’re alive. We’re living!” Mary says with a grin, a perfect reminder of the energy and spirit that senior living professionals help bring to their communities.
What residents and families really think about senior living staff
After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed champagne, sweets and each other’s company. Even Mary’s great-granddog, Sophie, made an appearance. The event showed how senior living professionals become extended family members, trusted with life’s most precious times.
“Wishes can come true. That’s important to remember,” Mary remarks thoughtfully. “Good wishes, good people, good food and good champagne,” she smiles. “What more do you need?”
The reality of making a difference every day
Mary got to officiate her granddaughter’s wedding.
Sophie got treats.
Emma got to make it all happen.
Want a job where every day could bring a moment like that?