Pivot General, Author at Alice Peck Day Life Care

Finding Home: Jon and Barbara’s Journey to Harvest Hill

Pivot General on January 28, 2025

Jon and Barbara are New Yorkers at heart. Born and raised in New York, their lives intertwined early—they met when they were 12 years old. 42 years ago, their journey took them to West Lebanon, New Hampshire, where they made the move with their two children, just 3 and 6 years old at the time.

Careers that Built a Legacy

Jon and Barbara spent their professional lives building relationships and serving their communities. Jon worked at Dartmouth Savings Bank before transitioning to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, where he managed the Customer Service and Call Center for 25 years. His leadership led to a high-retention team recognized for its dedication. Barbara was a dental hygienist who served her patients with care and precision.

Life in the Great North Woods

Jon and Barbara were always drawn to the peaceful allure of New Hampshire’s Great North Woods. For years, they’ve enjoyed getaways to Pittsburg, renting a cabin near the water. Jon would fish from the dock or take to the water in his Boston Whaler. These days, their escapes are quieter, spent reading and soaking in the tranquility.

A New Chapter at Harvest Hill

Health challenges prompted Jon and Barbara to consider a move from their raised ranch home, where two flights of stairs had become increasingly difficult. Encouraged by their daughter, they toured Harvest Hill, a community they had seen being built decades earlier. The presence of on-site medical care, even though they don’t currently need it, was a reassuring factor. Their transition was smooth, thanks to the welcoming team at Harvest Hill.

A Vibrant Community Life

Jon and Barbara have quickly embraced life at Harvest Hill. Jon, an advocate for his peers, serves as chairman of the Resident Council, while Barbara participates in arts and crafts activities. They enjoy attending piano performances, and their daughter has even performed at the community as part of a local quintet.

When asked about their favorite aspect of community life, Jon and Barbara praised the staff’s warmth and attentiveness. “In the five months we’ve been here, I can’t say enough good things,” Jon said. “Living here we’ve felt integrity, respect, and care from the entire staff.”

Delicious Dining

Three meals a day at Harvest Hill offer variety and quality. From salmon to a filet, and ever-changing dessert menus of fresh fruit and baked treats, Jon and Barbara appreciate the thoughtful preparation. An alternative menu ensures everyone finds something they enjoy.

Advice for Future Residents

Jon never expected he and his wife would end up at Harvest Hill, but when health issues arose, their plans changed. “If someone else finds themselves in our situation, I would recommend Harvest Hill,” Jon shared. “We needed to be here when we got here.”

Looking Ahead

Still driving and active, Jon and Barbara are making the most of their new chapter at Harvest Hill. With the support of a lively community, compassionate staff, and each other, they’re proving that transitions, while challenging, can open the door to a fulfilling new phase of life.

Keep it Moving in the Winter Months

Pivot General on December 23, 2024

Exercise, even moderate, is a well-documented way to maintain both physical and mental health. Some studies even suggest it can enhance cognitive skills. And while many of us find it is easier to stay active in the summer with the longer days and warmer weather, winter doesn’t have to slow you down. At Harvest Hill, we offer plenty of activities to help you keep moving throughout the colder months—all without leaving the comfort of our community.

You can join one of our exercise classes, held 2–3 times a week, or participate in a gentle Yoga class (you can hear from visiting Yoga instructor, Kathryn Mills, about the benefits of yoga and how she offers safe, beneficial movement instruction for all levels and interests). Participating in a singing group can give you a boost of energy. We also offer brain fitness classes, and you can always sign up for one of our outings. Even walking within our community can provide some needed steps toward better health.

For those looking to add more activity to their day, there are many online resources available. The National Institute on Aging, for example, provides a wealth of tips and ideas designed specifically for older adults who want to incorporate exercise into their daily lives.

No matter how you choose to stay active, stretching or getting your steps in, the key is to be consistent and stick to it. You don’t have to sweat or push too hard to get the benefits of regular exercise, and if you find the right activity, you can build a healthy habit for life.

Additional sources: AMA, Harvard Study, HealthLine, National Institute on Aging

May we Brag? Just a Little?

Pivot General on November 22, 2024

Have you heard that on October 3, 2024, our own Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD), a member of Dartmouth Health, achieved Level 1 Geriatric Emergency Department (GED) accreditation from the American College of Emergency Physicians. Situated here on our beautiful Lifecare campus, APD is the first critical access hospital in the entire United States to hold this distinction.

The GED program is a voluntary undertaking includes three levels (like a trauma centers’ designations) and provides specific criteria and goals for emergency clinicians and administrators to meet. The accreditation process includes more than two dozen best practices for geriatric care and the level of GED accreditation achieved depends upon how many of these best practices an emergency department can meet. A Level 1 emergency department must incorporate many of these best practices, along with providing inter-disciplinary geriatric education and having appropriate geriatric equipment and supplies available.

Special acknowledgement goes the GED champion team: Melissa Beamer, BSN, RN, TNCC, GERO-BC; Kristie Foster, MSN, RN, GERO-BC, Emergency Department Nurse Manager and Clinical Educator; and Nichole Cassidy, MSM, Quality Improvement Specialist, and of course to the entire ED team for their commitment and work to help improve patient outcomes. This important recognition is an example of APD’s continued dedication to the health and wellbeing of our entire community.

Susan E. Mooney, MD, MS, FACOG, president and CEO of APD said, “Our ED works tirelessly to improve patient outcomes for these patients, addressing common geriatric issues and ensuring optimal transitions of care to other settings. Level 1 GED accreditation is an important example of APD’s continued dedication to the health and wellbeing of our entire community.”

Congratulations to the Emergency Department team at APD. You are one more reason that Harvest Hill and The Woodlands are two of the most sought-after senior living communities in the Upper Valley.

About Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD)

Known for highly personalized and high-quality care, APD is the community hospital of the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire. Founded in 1932 and a member of Dartmouth Health since 2016, APD’s areas of clinical excellence include surgical services, primary care, geriatric care, sleep health, orthopedics, and emergency services.

A Resident Perspective on Creativity and Community in The Woodlands Woodworking Shop

Pivot General on October 16, 2024

At The Woodlands Retirement Community at APD Lifecare, hobbies and passions are encouraged and nurtured, so residents can stay active, engaged and creative. For resident Al H., woodworking has been a passion for over two decades. He takes simple square pieces of wood and transforms them into intricate works of art—a process that is not only rewarding but incredible to see through from start to finish.

Al’s journey in woodworking began more than 20 years ago, and what started as a hobby has grown into a fulfilling way to spend time at The Woodlands. Today, he helps run the woodworking shop activities, where about 12 residents can work on projects, socialize, and learn from each other. “Everyone comes at different times,” Al says, noting how the flexible nature of the workshop allows for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

A Well-Equipped Creative Space

The woodworking shop at The Woodlands has evolved into a well-equipped space, thanks to the collective efforts and care of many residents over the years. Outfitted with essential tools for a wide range of woodworking projects, the shop reflects the dedication and passion of the community.

Among the tools, the router and shaper are favorites, especially for residents like Al, who enjoy transforming simple pieces of wood into stunning creations. “Id like to get a few more tools in here,” Al mentions, but he’s quick to acknowledge that the shop is what it is today thanks to the many hands that have contributed to its growth. From selecting equipment to sharing knowledge and ideas, the shop is a true labor of love, constantly evolving with the combined creativity and support of The Woodlands community.

Building Friendships and Beautiful Creations

While the woodworking shop is a place to hone craftsmanship, it’s also a place where companionship thrives. The 12 residents that frequent the shop come and go as their schedules permit, but the shared interest in woodworking creates friendships. The woodworking shop is about having a place where people relax and enjoy what they do.

One of the recent collaborative projects was an art cabinet that Al and his fellow resident and friend, Bill, built together. This cabinet is used to store art from the community at The Woodlands. Al, and other residents will take on projects to not only challenge their skills but to give back to The Woodlands and leave a lasting mark at the community.

A Place for All Woodworking Enthusiasts

The woodworking shop is open to any resident interested in learning or expanding their woodworking skills. Before anyone can start working, however, there’s a short application process to ensure everyone is familiar with the equipment and safety protocols. “Safety is always the top priority,” the Director of Sales & Marketing, Carol, stresses.

Al is eager to assist anyone who may need help with the machines or guidance on a project. “I’m always available to help,” he says. Whether it’s someone looking to build something for their apartment or wanting to try their hand at a new technique, Al is there to support and encourage their endeavors.

In addition to the joy of working with wood, Al and the other woodworkers are always on the lookout for fresh ideas and methodologies. “We’re constantly learning from each other,” Al remarks. This spirit of curiosity and continuous learning is what keeps the woodworking shop such a dynamic and vibrant part of life at The Woodlands.

For Al and the rest of the woodworkers, the shop is more than just a place to build—it’s a place to connect, share and create. The shop offers endless possibilities for those who love the art of woodworking.

Connections Magazine Spotlights the Intergenerational Bonds at APD Lifecare

Pivot General on October 16, 2024

We’re excited that Dartmouth Health’s employee magazine, Connections, recently featured an article about the unique sense of family fostered at our APD Lifecare communities, Harvest Hill and The Woodlands. It highlights the special relationships that form between our residents and the high school students who work in the dining rooms, and how these intergenerational connections positively impact both young and old. Read on to learn more about how these meaningful bonds enrich lives and even inspire career paths in healthcare.

The Feeling of Family

It’s something we don’t see enough in our society-opportunities for connection between old and young. But that’s happening every day at Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital’s two Lifecare facilities, Harvest Hill, an assisted living community, and The Woodlands, an independent living community.

When residents gather for dinner, it’s often served by high school students employed by the facilities. Over time, relationships build, says Nikki Fortier, executive director of APD Lifecare. “The students become surrogate grandchildren for residents, who may not see their families very often.”

These often joyful relationships enhance the well-being of both the residents and the students. Research shows that intergenerational relationships can improve mental and physical health for older people.

The relationship between the residents and students goes beyond dinnertime. “At prom time, students usually make a stop at The Woodlands or Harvest Hill in their prom finery, so residents can see them all dressed up,” Fortier says. “The residents are also thrilled when prior students return to visit.”

Fortier says that the experience of students, who number from 50 to 60 at any one time, can generate an interest in healthcare, perhaps even geriatric care: “This absolutely happens sometimes. Their relationship with older people demystifies elder care.”

And sometimes that healthcare career takes place at Harvest Hill and The Woodlands. “We have several examples of full-time employees in our nursing department—resident assistants, LNAs, an RN—who started out in the dining room,” Fortier says. “The feeling of family that is established in the dining room is a motivator for some to pursue a caregiving career path.”

Read Connections Magazine →

An Inside Look: The Guides of the The Woodlands

Pivot General on October 1, 2024

Harvest Hill’s sister community, The Woodlands, offers an interesting take to prospective move-ins with tours guided by Woodlands’ residents.

Nancy (a Woodlands’ resident today) had toured another Senior Living community, where a resident gave her a guided tour, which left a lasting impression. When Nancy eventually settled on living at The Woodlands, she introduced the idea of resident-led tours to the administrators. Together, they brought that idea to life, and from it, The Woodlands Tour Guides, known as “The Guides,” bloomed.

A Resident-Led Approach

One thing that sets The Woodlands Independent Living apart is its unique approach to tours. While most communities rely on staff, here at The Woodlands, prospective residents experience the community through the eyes of its current residents. Nancy, along with 11 other dedicated tour guides, a mix of couples and individuals, provide personal insights into what it’s really like to live at The Woodlands.

Each guide comes from a diverse background, offering prospective residents’ various perspectives. This resident-led approach brings authenticity to the tours and fosters a deeper sense of connection. It’s a unique opportunity for visitors to hear directly from people who live there

Nancy’s Role Behind the Scenes

While Nancy prefers to keep a low profile, her role in organizing and coordinating these tours is essential. She works closely with the Director of Sales & Marketing to ensure everything runs smoothly, though Nancy says it’s easy because all the guides are wonderful and great at what they do. From training the new tour guides to planning the itinerary, Nancy is the quiet force behind “The Guides.”

A Tour to Remember

Tours start in the lobby, where guests are introduced to the layout and amenities. From there, The Guides lead visitors through some of the most loved spots in the community. For men, the woodshop is often a highlight – a place where craftsmanship and camaraderie thrive. The fitness center and swimming pool are also popular stops, giving prospective residents a taste of the active lifestyle available here.

The tour concludes with a visit to two apartments, helping guests to imagine what life could be like at The Woodlands. Nancy believes this part of the tour is important to prospects. Seeing the apartments helps them visualize themselves living at The Woodlands.

A Community Like No Other

For Nancy, being a part of The Guides is about more than just showing people around. It’s about helping people feel at home before they even move in. It’s this sense of community, transparency, and personal touch that helps set the Woodlands apart from other independent living communities. It’s truly special experience.

Becky Luce: Finding Heart and Home at Harvest Hill

Pivot General on August 23, 2024

When you walk the serene gardens of Harvest Hill, you might spot a resident with a warm smile, carefully tending to her flowers. That’s Becky Luce, a beloved community member who has found her heart’s home in the Hughes Studio Apartments. Becky’s journey is one of resilience, love, and joy in the simple pleasures of life—like a garden in bloom or a conversation with a friend.

Becky chose the Hughes Studio Apartments at Harvest Hill, a decision made with both practicality and passion. “I never know when I can or can’t eat or drink due to my medication, so having a kitchen in my studio is incredibly convenient,” she shares. Becky also appreciates having the choice to enjoy three meals a day in the dining room, offering the flexibility to dine with others.

What truly makes Becky’s life at Harvest Hill special is the strong sense of community and the great friends she’s made. She fondly recalls lunches with Pam, Gayle, and the newest resident Louise—gatherings filled with laughter and shared memories. Each week, they are committed to making it a point to be together, whether it’s lunch in the Dining Room or reserving a community room for a chat or a shared activity. “No matter what we are doing, we do it together and always have the best time,” Becky reflects.

But what she loves most is her patio door, which opens directly into the garden. “Every step counts” Becky says, and she takes every opportunity to be outside, nurturing her plants or going on walks.

Gardening has always been close to Becky’s heart. At her home in downtown Lebanon, she grew an impressive array of tomatoes. Because tomatoes have been a bit stubborn of late, Becky turned her attention to cultivating a variety of flowers, each one a testament to her persistence and care. Her connection to the outdoors is mirrored by her bond with her dear friend Ann, who also lives at Harvest Hill. Ann was Becky’s horseback riding instructor when she was just ten years old. After years of losing touch, fate united them in this community. Now, they enjoy walks together, often pausing to chat in the garden—a simple but cherished ritual.

Becky’s choice to make Harvest Hill her home was guided by more than amenities. She remembers the warmth and support she felt from the Assistant Resident Care Manager, Catherine, during her initial visits. “Catherine really helped drive my decision to live here,” Becky explains. Unlike other communities she visited, Harvest Hill immediately felt right—a place where the staff is genuinely happy to help with anything, big or small.

Becky’s life at Harvest Hill is enriched by her deep appreciation for music. A former music teacher, she especially enjoys it when performers visit the community, and music remains a vital part of her life, just as it always has.

And then there’s Obi, Becky’s ten-year-old dog whose name means “heart” in Swahili. Though Obi now lives with a close friend, he still visits Becky weekly, bringing a little extra joy to her days. Obi’s name is fitting, as Becky’s heart is at the center of everything she does—whether it’s friendships, gardening, or her deep connection to the community.

At Harvest Hill, Becky found more than just a place to live; she found a place that supports and uplifts her, allowing her to continue doing what she loves, surrounded by people who care. As Becky would say, it was a “gut feeling” that led her here, and it’s her heart that keeps her thriving.

Meet Director of Sales and Marketing Carol Kolenski

Pivot General on July 26, 2024

Carol joined the APD Lifecare team directly from her previous role as Community Relations Counselor at another local senior living community. Asked why she made the move, Carol said that she knew her predecessor, Peggy Cooper, had visited the community, and had always respected what she encountered and really liked the residents and staff. “Everyone is so happy here; it’s a welcoming place and it made an impression,” she says this impression as well as the opportunity to work for Executive Director Nikki Fortier again made the decision to join APD Lifecare an easy one. She has been welcomed with open arms.

Carol has lived in Vermont (Quechee – Hartford area) since 1999. As a single mom with two young sons, she made her way to Vermont from NH Seacoast Syracuse because she thought it was a great place to raise kids. Her sons still live in the area, and you can find Carol with her grandchildren every Friday, so things have worked out well.

After 20+ years in sales and regional positions at Marriott and IHG, Carol had an experience that prompted her shift to working with seniors. While at IHG, a Vietnam veteran in a wheelchair stayed in one of the hotel’s long-term suites. The staff helped him in various ways, including one day taking him to his oncology appointment. During the visit, he learned he was terminally ill. He told Carol he wanted to stay where he was living as long as he could, which he did, even when he went into hospice. Carol and the team supported his wishes until the end.

During this time, Carol realized the fulfillment she felt from being helpful and supporting someone through life challenges. After the veteran passed away, his oncologist came to IHG to acknowledge the support, care and compassion Carol and her team had provided to this dying man. “People are my passion, and I am a staunch advocate for our residents and their families,” Carol says.

In her role at Harvest Hill and The Woodlands, Carol is committed to making the transition to the communities as smooth as possible, helping residents and families navigate the challenges and process. She’s the person you want in your corner when you need help with a big task.

Carol studied Sales and Marketing and Business Administration at Franklin Pierce University. She finds joy in spending time with her sons Kyle, and Jason and his family, her partner Dale, traveling, gardening, reading, and watching documentaries. We’re glad to have Carol on the team.

Meet The Woodlands Executive Chef

Pivot General on June 24, 2024

Choosing a career path can be hard unless you really know what you love to do. Jason knew what he enjoyed but it took a few turns to get there. Growing up in neighboring Massachusetts, he started working in restaurants at an early age, and tried out most of the roles — from dishwasher to “front of the house.” Over time, he realized his love was the preparation of the meal. It’s creative, it’s physical, and it’s rewarding when people enjoy the food. He admits he never enjoyed the typical kitchen culture (have you seen, “The Bear”?), so over the years, he’s worked to change the culture in the kitchens he’s managed. Today, he truly enjoys his team and what he does.

Jason went to college out of high school, then joined the Navy in his 20s where he became an electronic technician. It’s a career he could have pursued, but he chose to follow his passion and enrolled at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI.

Jason has worked at inns, restaurants, colleges and even another senior living community. Several of those positions were more management than hands-on in the kitchen, but the fit at The Woodlands is just right and he loves being back “behind the line” doing what he loves most. He designs the menus, and he confirms from his experience, the food they serve at The Woodlands is restaurant quality. Though he adds, who wants to eat at a restaurant every day? He and his team also add down-home meals to the menu, like a BBQ Platter, or Fenway Park Night (yup, great hot dogs and made-from-scratch cheesy nachos). Residents enjoy the variety. He incorporates seasonal foods, too, and will continue to tap local producers and products for The Woodlands’ menu.

He and his family moved to the area around 2001 and they love it. He enjoys riding his bike (even to work when he can) and hiking. Most of his family is still in Massachusetts, so it’s easy to visit. Jason really enjoys the people at The Woodlands. He says the residents are friendly, and the culinary staff is great — they can really cook!

APD’s Harvest Hill Residents Compete in Puzzle Contest

Pivot General on May 2, 2024

When you think of doing a puzzle, you might picture someone relaxing, sipping tea pulled up to a card or coffee table, pondering the pieces and where they fit.

Recently, a group of Harvest Hill residents engaged in a whole different approach during a “Puzzle Competition” activity. Three teams, of three residents each, were given the same 300-piece puzzle, a timed start and their own space to put it together as quickly as possible with a goal to be the first to complete their puzzle.

The idea came to the activities team via Martha Doolittle, a Harvest Hill resident. Martha had tried a contest at a church competition, an event with six tables of teams. Martha also mentioned that her sister’s brother in law, Bob Armstrong, is a Puzzle Master so she has been doing puzzles for a long time. She saw a documentary called “Wicker Kittens” about teams of people who do puzzle contests. She knew Anne Williams, who was in the film. Martha reached out to Anne for guidance about how to set up contests and where to get puzzles and other ways to host a successful event. Anne was a great help providing guidance and resources.

The winning team at the Harvest Hill competition completed their puzzle in about two hours. Teams had to work together (which can be a challenge) but Martha said you figure out a strategy. For example, on her team they had a “border” person and one to sort and organize prominent colors. The winners went home with boxes of chocolate truffles, and all the teams got to keep their puzzles. Congratulations to Martha and the activities team for “putting it all together.”

REQUEST INFO