MEAD, Wash. — A day at Walter’s Fruit Ranch might seem like a typical outing, but for the residents from South Hill Village, it was more meaningful.
“You can’t believe how much I appreciate this,” said Merlene Olmstead, a resident in assisted living at South Hill Village. “I love to be outside and in nature,” Olmstead added.
The residents enjoyed a range of activities, from exploring the pumpkin patch to sampling delicious food. “Oh, pumpkin donuts, that sounds good,” one resident exclaimed.
Carine Mossay Snyder, life enrichment director at South Hill Village, emphasized the importance of such outings. “It’s so good for the soul, you know, just to take them out and enjoy each other’s company,” she said.
Sherry Gaiser, who is in memory care, reflected, “It just reminds me of some really, really happy times.”
Mary Lou DiJulio shared her favorite part of the day: “Enjoying the children’s delight, running around here—so happy and meeting other kids!”
One resident, Merlene Olmstead, was heard cheering as she went down the slide, proclaiming, “I loved it!”