Becoming Family in Independent and Assisted Living

Enjoying wine at the Stafford in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Written by Avamere Living

October 27, 2020


It’s all about the residents. That’s the Stafford’s view on senior living from the amenities they provide to the group activities, even simply getting to know each person. It’s all part of the Stafford’s family culture.

Fun at the Stafford

Life is active at the Stafford! The team provides many activities for residents to enjoy.

Some of their activities include a fall pumpkin carving contest, watching plays at the Lakewood Theater, and enjoying dinner at a local restaurant. There’s truly something for everyone whether they want to spend a day in or go out on the town.

“I want them to be happy,” Rita Segura, Marketing and Admissions Director at the Stafford, said about the residents.

The team certainly has that perspective in their hearts with everything they say and do for their independent and assisted living residents.

Finding their inner artist

A watercolor artist, Peter O’Brien, holds weekly watercolor classes at the Stafford where residents can find their inner artist.

One resident started selling paintings about a year after she started his class.

“It was fun to watch her discover this whole new world,” Rita said. “Peter can take pretty much anybody and help them discover their creativity.”

They also feature Floral Friday where residents can make their own bouquet and bring it to their rooms to enjoy.

Friendly, familiar faces

While activities are a big part of creating their fun, close-knit environment, it’s the connections between residents and staff that complete this culture.

Residents see friendly, familiar faces each day – several employees have worked at the Stafford a long time, some even since the Stafford opened in February 2008.

  • Carey Dienhart, Life Enrichment Director, 11 years
  • Carolyn Skee, Hair Stylist, 11 years
  • JoAnne Daniels, Nail Technician, 11 years
  • Rita Segura, Marketing and Admissions Director, 10 years
  • Austin Cummins, Lead Server, 9 years
  • Cara Hall, Assisted Living Nurse, 9 years

No matter if a team member is brand new or has been around for years, they’re part of the Stafford’s close-knit culture.

“I feel like we’re one big family,” Rita said about the team and residents.

That’s evident in the way the employees and residents interact with one another, even just passing each other in the hallway. With every resident Rita walks by, she offers a friendly smile, greets them by name, and asks how their doing – even inquiring if they attended a recent activity.

This is a perfect example of their mission to enhance the life of every person they serve.

See this family culture for yourself – schedule a tour to experience independent and assisted living the Stafford way.

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