“We are honored to have been recognized as a Front Line Hero in our ongoing work to fight COVID-19 by Lutheran Services in America. Our caregivers’ dedication to those we

Shelley Kendrick, President and CEO of Ecumen, has been named to the YMCA Twin Cities Board of Directors. “I greatly admire the work of the YMCA and am very proud to join

Shelley Kendrick joins select thought leaders and prominent industry associations from across North America on the International Council on Active Aging’s (ICAA) COVID-19 Senior Living Task Force. With a focus

Ecumen: Leading the way in nonprofit innovation February 3, 2020 | Published by Senior Housing News | Article by Chuck Sudo Although nonprofit senior living providers have shown an appetite

Zvago St. Anthony Park Wins Top Real Estate Development Honor

Morshed (Mo) Alam, has been named Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Ecumen.

Ecumen CEO Emeritus Kathryn Roberts received the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal’s 2019 Career Achievement Award at the 2019 Women in Business luncheon and expo May 23, 2019.

Melanie (Mel) Sullivan, Ed.D., has been named Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at Ecumen, effective April 1. 

Ecumen is recognized as one of Twin Cities' top five Largest Senior Living Operators by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal.   

Kathryn Roberts, Ecumen CEO Emeritus, has been recognized as a top leader in the field of long-term care and senior care. Roberts was named to the Hall of Honor in

Ecumen has received a “Stars Among Us Innovation Award” from LeadingAge Minnesota for its Senior Care Excellence program designed to help reduce the shortage of long-term care nurses in rural

Shelley Kendrick has been named Ecumen’s incoming President and CEO, effective Feb. 4. Currently Ecumen’s SVP of Operations and COO, Shelley succeeds Kathryn Roberts, who has led the organization since

On Jan. 9, 2019, Ecumen announced that Shelley Kendrick will become President and CEO, effective Feb. 4, 2019.  Current President and CEO Kathryn Roberts will become CEO Emeritus and lead

Five Ecumen owned and managed sites in Minnesota have received a “Best Nursing Home” rating by U.S. News & World Report magazine. 

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, a time to create awareness for this special kind of care. We have some special stories to share.  

Alvin Obermoller, 95, a U.S. Navy veteran from Worthington, had a haunting narrow escape from a kamikaze aircraft that barely missed his transport ship during WWII.

Janet Geisler, Life Enrichment Supervisor at Ecumen Prairie Hill in St. Peter, is passionate about honoring veterans.

Rose Senior Living Carmel, a new state-of-the-art senior living community in the heart of Carmel, IN, managed by Ecumen, held its official dedication October 25, 2018, followed by an open

Two Ecumen Lakeshore caregivers answered a desperate knock on the door in the middle of the night — and they saved a life.

More than 50 Ecumen Partners joined Ecumen Leadership on the greens for our annual golf tournament to benefit the Benevolence Fund.

Sysco, Ecumen’s food supplier, and Link-age, our group purchasing organization, recently hosted the Ecumen Food Show.   

Ecumen-managed Luther Park at Sandpoint, ID, has been voted the “best senior living community” in Bonner County for the ninth year in a row in a reader survey conducted by

Ecumen Lakeshore was voted “Best Retirement/Assisted Living” in Duluth in the Duluth News Tribune’s “Best of the Best” reader poll. Also, Lakeshore’s Crest independent living apartments received third place in

Ecumen Pathstone Living has been voted best senior living community in Mankato for the fourth straight year by readers of Mankato Magazine, a publication of the Mankato Free Press.

The Ecumen Velocity Class of 2018-2019 recently held its first session, embarking on a year-long program focused on building leadership skills and developing innovative approaches to aging services and a

Ecumen and Minnesota State University, Mankato, are teaming up to help address the state’s acute shortage of nurses working in long-term geriatric care. Nursing faculty from across the state will

Zvago Stillwater, a cooperative housing development near downtown Stillwater for ages 62+, is now pre-selling units,

Ecumen and two partners have proposed an affordable multifamily development in Minneapolis.

Ecumen is thrilled to have nine talented interns join us this summer.

National Elite Magazine has named Ecumen's Smith & Porter Restaurant + Bar among the top 10 restaurants in Minnesota in its 2018 national awards.

Eighty-year-old Nancy Abrahamson’s dream of a high school diploma came true at Ecumen Scenic Shores Care Center in Two Harbors, Minn.

It’s National Nursing Assistants Week, and Ecumen honors and thanks its nearly 1,500 direct caregivers for their dedicated care and commitment.  

Abiitan Mill City hosted a lively “Jazz It Up” event featuring acclaimed vocalist Connie Evingson and pianist Marie Louise Knutson.

Amber Hernandez, Human Resources Specialist at Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley, has received the 2018 Ecumen Philanthropy Powerful Partner Award.

Finance & Commerce has named Zvago Glen Lake Cooperative in Minnetonka as a Top Project of 2017.  

Rose Senior Living at Providence Park, a new state-of-the-art senior living community on the St. John Providence Hospital Campus in Novi, MI, held its official ribbon cutting May 17, 2018.

Ecumen has received a $20,000 grant from Delta Dental of Minnesota to create a training program in oral care specifically designed for people with dementia.

Meet a few of them…

Ecumen Detroit Lakes Nurse Bobbi Jo Koons, RN, got a big surprise recently when she was awarded the Every Day Hero Award of 2018 by the United Way of Becker

Zvago Central Village owners celebrate the spot where their new homes will be built.

Ecumen honors Margee Polanka for her 40 years of dedication and service to others.

Dr. Dale Anderson, aka Dr. Happy, is on a mission to help people become more ageless.  

Technology allows a grandmother at Ecumen Detroit Lakes to watch her grandson's wrestling matches.

National media are taking an interest in Ecumen’s new Zvago cooperatives designed to appeal to younger seniors with active lifestyles. Senior Housing News, a national trade publication, recently featured reporter

Wisdom is a key strength of aging.  An expert tells how to tap into your wiser self and grow as you age.

Hollywood made progress this year fighting sexual abuse and bias against women and minorities. But ageism — apparently the last acceptable "ism" — did not fare so well. The Academy

Two employees of Ecumen communities and a memory care resident were recently honored at LeadingAge Minnesota’s “Stars Among Us” awards ceremony in St. Paul. 

Millie, a resident of Ecumen Detroit Lakes, talks about the true meaning of living in her community.

You can change your brain's destiny says Lisa Genova, a neuroscientist and the author of Still Alice,

It's National Activity Professionals Week, and Ecumen recognizes and honors its Life Enrichment staff — the people who specialize in bringing smiles to our residents.

Here's a graphic way to understand how fast Minnesota is aging.

A group of Ecumen employees recently became Dementia Friends – part of a global movement striving to create more dementia friendly communities by changing the way people think, act and

Researchers in Belgium found that children and teens who spend quality time with their grandparents are less likely to have negative stereotypical attitudes told the elderly.

Ecumen proudly celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We especially thank Dr. King for the inspiration he gives us in our fight against ageism.  

Dr. Ken Druck makes a case for un-resolutions in the New Year.

When an aging parent moves in with you, there are big changes in your household dynamics.

In the holiday spirit, a group of Ecumen volunteers helped out last week at The Anoka Veteran Housing Project, which is providing quality housing for homeless veterans by restoring three cottages at

Making New Year's resolutions? Get some tips from this easy-to-understand guide on how to take care of yourself.

We invite you to celebrations all across Ecumen in our holiday video. 

The trure spirit of Christmas has many dimensions — captured in these quotations.

Making holiday visits joyful for everyone means staying positive and proactive. Here's how to stay cheerful.  

It happens every year around Christmas — the traditional lutefisk and meatball meal at Point Pleasant Heights in Chisago City.

This holiday season remember that sometimes the best gift is not a material gift at all. 

The U.S. Postal Service is now offering a stamp with a fundraising mission to fight Alzheimer’s disease.

If you are searching for gifts for the seniors in your life this holiday season, look no further!

For the sixth year in a row, the management team from Ecumen Meadows recently volunteered for Nobles County Christmas Basket Project – gathering donations and filling baskets for the needy. 

Five Ecumen owned and managed sites in Minnesota have received a “Best Nursing Home” rating by U.S. News & World Report magazine. 

Finding dependable transportation is a major challenge for older adults, and a panel of experts gathered recently to discuss how innovations may help address the problem.

Ecumen Lakeview Commons residents gathered November 9 for a Veterans Day service to honor people like 100-year-old Madeline Allen, who sat in the front row. She served in the Army

It’s been almost 75 years since Ensign Katherine Schuller was a U.S. Navy nurse caring for wounded sailors, but her memories remain vivid. “They were just boys,” she recalls. “A

Ecumen employees heard the troubling statistic that “food insecurity” affects approximately one out of every ten Minnesotans — including a large number of seniors. 

Through raindrops and dark skies the Rose Senior Living-Avon team braved the early morning elements to participate for the second year in a row at the Cleveland Clinic-Avon hospital charity

Both professional and family caregivers tend to be committed and selfless people who put their own needs in the background in order to give the best care possible to others.

Ecumen-managed Rose Senior Living at Providence Park, a new state-of-the-art senior living community on the St. John Providence Hospital Campus in Novi, MI, is now officially open and has named

All you ageists – and you know who you are – believe that older adults contribute little to the world. And you’re wrong.

Older brains can do things that younger brains cannot.

Ecumen Centennial House hosted several police officers and detectives from the Apple Valley Police Department this week for “Coffee with a Cop.”

Our daily interactions are full of casual jokes, clichés, and compliments that are blatantly ageist but culturally acceptable.  “Casual ageism” is rampant and not as harmless as it seems. Katy

Take a tour of Abiitan Mill City with KSTP-TV Reporter Emily Engberg.

Zvago Glen Lake Cooperative, a new senior housing community on the north shore of Glen Lake in Minnetonka, has won an Award of Excellence from the Minnesota Chapter of the

October is Clergy Appreciation Month, and Ecumen wants our chaplains to know how highly we value the work they do.

Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley recently raised more than $1,800 to benefit residents at its 2017 Lights of Honor ceremony.

A rapidly diminishing supply of affordable housing is a critical issue, especially for seniors, two housing advocates told a group of Ecumen employees this week. Ruth Paradise from Jewish Community

The first-ever Ecumen 5K team raised over $1,200 for the Benevolence Fund in Medtronic’s Twin Cities in Motion Marathon.

Honor lights are being lit across Minnesota as Ecumen communities host their annual "Lights of Honor" celebrations.

Ecumen President and CEO Kathryn Roberts has been named as one of the 2017 “Influencers in Aging” by Next Avenue, a PBS digital publication dedicated to covering issues for people 50

Ecumen Meadows in Worthington will be creating a therapeutic music program for its memory care residents thanks to a $3,427 grant from the Worthington Regional Health Care Foundation (WRHCF).

Ignite your passion!  Those are the watchwords for Active Aging Week®, which runs from September 24 to September 30, 2017.  

A group from Ecumen Parmly LifePointes transformed plastic bags into comfortable beds for the homeless.

Two Ecumen leaders have been recognized by LeadingAge Minnesota as “innovative and influential leaders who are charting the course for the next wave of older adult services that will empower

Ecumen is joining care providers across the country to celebrate National Adult Day Services Week, September 17-23, 2017. 

Nearly 100 golfers joined Ecumen out on the greens for the annual Ecumen Partners Golf Tournament to raise money for the Benevolence Fund.

Here’s a question to ponder during Healthy Aging Month: What is “old?” Statistically, the median age is 37.8, so when you pass that mark, you are older than 50% of

Residents at Ecumen Parmly Lakeview Apartments are now harvesting the vegetables of their labor from box gardens they planted last spring with a grant from Allina Health.

Some advice on getting older: Listen to what your pediatrician told you when you were a kid.

Ecumen has named three vice presidents. William (Bill) McGarry has been named vice president of IT & chief technology officer (CTO) with leadership responsibility for company-wide information systems and technology.

Ecumen assisted living communities join other providers around the country this week in celebration of National Assisted Living Week – a time to honor the deep connections between staff and

Healthy Aging Month, celebrated each September, is a time to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older. 

To qualify as a hospice volunteer, being human is not essential.  Take Arlo, for example. He’s the cutest little toy poodle you could ever hope to meet – spunky, happy,

When Linda Ross, RN, retired recently, her last day was a happy day – the perfect ending to her career.  

Joanna Meyer goes above and beyond every single day in her role as a driver at Ecumen Pathstone Living. 

For the Ecumen team managing the Zvago cooperative initiative, the future of senior living is now.

Senior Living News features Ecumen President & CEO Kathryn Roberts and COO Shelley Kendrick in an article exploring the role women leaders play in today’s aging services profession.

Chantelle Fischer is the definition of “to serve.” 

To change the way we think about aging, we need to change the way we talk about aging.

Kenosha (Kenny) Washington personifies customer service. 

Billy Flanagan is a shining example of an employee who lives Ecumen’s values, especially Innovation and Empowerment.

When it comes to honoring and empowering employees, Cindy Whitcomb is a champion. 

It can be the busiest day ever, and Jennie Gerving is unfazed.  She will have a smile on her face and a positive, can-do attitude. 

Rita Dodge is wonderful at innovation. She looks at something, and her brain instantly goes to work on ways to improve the process or new ways of completing a task. 

Becky Tapper personifies honor. She is all about honoring the wishes and needs of residents at Ecumen Sand Prairie.

Ecumen has been named one of Minnesota’s Best Places to Work by the Minneapolis/Saint Paul Business Journal for the 10th time.

Joan Moore was hired in 10 minutes and continues working as a Nursing Assistant at Ecumen Bethany Community 35 years later.

Bress Nicneven is Abiitan’s MacGyver. Like the TV character, he’s a wizard at problem-solving. 

Service with a smile. A beaming smile that will warm your heart! That is what we see every day from Vanessa Blanco Alvarado, our Resident Services Coordinator.

Under Danielle Olson’s leadership, Sunnyside Care Center has become a top performer.

Tami Rakos and Jim Heymans of Ecumen Hospice approached the field at different times in life, but they agree that the profession is both demanding and extremely rewarding. And it’s

Amber Hernandez is a people person – someone who genuinely wants to get to know everyone she works with and make them feel appreciated. 

Pastor Ron Gerl of Ecumen Parmly LifePointes is a living example of everything Ecumen aspires to be. 

We always know when Jana Odegaard comes into the building at Ecumen Evergreens of Fargo. “It’s Jana!” the residents exclaim. 

Emily Dummer is a caring and fun-loving nurse who can connect with anyone. She works in Memory Care at Ecumen Prairie Hill, where she has a very special rapport with

Service to others defines Teresa Nelson. She is always out on the floor at St. Mark’s Living, doing something to help out.

Parmly Lakeview Apartments has taken 1st place in HUD Customer Satisfaction Surveys twice – in a large part because of Todd Peterson’s service, dedication, and commitment to our residents. 

Abiitan Mill City, Ecumen's luxury senior living community in Downtown Minneapolis, is now offering a respite program for those who need short-term assisted living or memory care services.

Most people want to keep living in their home as they age, but the home becomes the enemy.  A Northfield couple worked with renowned architect Michael Graves to build a

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen’s Velocity Leadership Program Graduates Class of 2017 The Ecumen Velocity class

St. Mark’s Living, an Ecumen-managed senior living and healthcare campus in Austin, Minn., has received a $24,840 Workforce Solutions Grant from the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation to help recruit new employees

Contrary to popular opinion, a recent Mayo Clinic study suggests that it’s never too late to rejuvenate aging muscles.  

Medical News Today has selected five blogs on Alzheimer's disease that showcase the most recent research, provide a day-in-the-life account of living with the disease, and share perspectives from caregivers.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen’s Velocity Leadership Program Graduates Class of 2017 The Ecumen Velocity class

The Ecumen Velocity class of 2017 has just graduated from the year-long program focused on building leadership skills and developing innovative approaches to aging services.

Marsha Berry tells the story about the day she drove past a senior community in Minneapolis and saw two rainbow flags flying.  She pulled over and cried.

Kim Lear, a Minneapolis-based strategist and researcher in generational theory, last week gave a group of Ecumen leaders some insight on how to “view the world through the eyes of

  Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Join the 8+ Million People Who Are Loving How Rapper Macklemore

Nearly a fifth of people 65+ are working – the highest share of older workers in more than 50 years.

How do you tell the difference between “normal” forgetfulness and serious memory loss due to dementia?

Rapper Macklemore surprised his Grandma Helen on her 100th birthday and took her on a heartwarming frolic around town – egging houses, hitting the arcade, doing karaoke and shopping for orthopedic

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: 96-Year-Old Ecumen Meadows Resident Gives 9-Year-Old History Buff a Firsthand Account of

It’s rare that we have friends 10 years younger or older than we are.  And that’s a shame, says anti-ageism activist Ashton Applewhite. In a recent blog post, she argues

Bob Roos, 96, recently sat across from Dylan Schuett, 9, telling captivating stories from his World War II service, including the bloody battle of Iwo Jima. Dylan aspires to open

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Named One of Minnesota’s Best Places To Work for 10th Time

Are you interested in mingling with innovators focused on changing the aging experience for seniors through technology? Aging2.0, an organization supporting innovation to help seniors, is hosting its “Summer 2

Thank you to the Ecumen Parmly LifePointes staff who recently served at the Community Free Meal at Zion Lutheran Church in Chisago City.  

Everybody is expected to “age well” these days. What if that's not an option?

It's time to change the conversation about aging.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Named One of Minnesota’s Best Places To Work for 10th Time

Point Pleasant Heights, a townhome and apartment community on the Ecumen Parmly LifePointes campus in Chisago City, recently held its annual Cul-de-Sac Coffees.

Ecumen has been named one of Minnesota’s Best Places to Work for the 10th time by the Minneapolis/Saint Paul Business Journal.

Ecumen honors Philip Dufresne, a resident of Ecumen Scenic Shores in Two Harbors, Minn.,who is 103.

An AARP report ranks Minnesota second in the nation in overall quality of services for older adults.

Ecumen honors Doris Manson, a resident of Ecumen Lakeview Commons, who is 108.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen CEO Kathryn Roberts Featured in “Bold Leader” Series Ecumen CEO Kathryn

Flag Day this week was celebrated with enthusiasm at Point Pleasant Heights on the Ecumen Parmly LifePointes campus in Chisago City, Minn.

Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, Minn., is celebrating its 100th anniversary this weekend, including a vintage fashion show on Friday, a family carnival on Saturday and a 100-year worship celebration and

Ecumen CEO Kathryn Roberts is recognized this week as a “Bold Leader” by Aveus, a global management consulting firm.

Ecumen honors Dean Christian, a resident of Ecumen Prairie Hill in St. Peter, Minn., who is 100.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Minnesota Good Age Features Abiitan Mill City Minnesota Good Age, a magazine

See what happens when some young people make ill-informed assumptions about age.

Ecumen honors Bernice Winter, a resident of Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, Minn., who is 100.

Minnesota Good Age, a magazine for Minnesotans 50 and older, features Abiitan Mill City in its June issue. See “In the heart of the city” by Sarah Jackson for an

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: A Tribute to Vickie Thompson’s Nearly 40 Years of Service at Pelican

Vickie Thompson has served Pelican Valley Senior Living for nearly 40 years, helping deal with some of the most significant issues the community has faced.

In honor of National Senior Health and Fitness Day, the National Institute on Aging discusses how it is possible to exercise with pain under certain conditions.

Members of Zvago Glen Lake Cooperative in Minnetonka celebrated their new community with a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony May 23, 2017.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Award-Winning Ecumen Employees and Communities Recognized at Annual Leadership Meeting Ecumen leaders

This was a special Memorial Day for Mary Hagen, a resident of Ecumen Lakeshore in Duluth, who recently learned her brother is coming home after 74 years.

It’s known as Veteran’s Hill – the hill below Ecumen Bethany Community’s Chapel in Alexandria, Minn.

Ecumen leaders and communities with outstanding achievements in 2016 were recognized at an awards presentation ceremony at the company’s annual Leadership Conference held on May 17, 2017.

On Monday, May 29, Americans will celebrate Memorial Day. Thank you to all of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces, past and present. Ecumen honors you! 

Cheryl Dinsmore, Life Enhancement Supervisor at Ecumen Meadows of Worthington, Minn., currently is serving as president of the Minnesota Statewide Activity Professionals (MN SWAP).

With Memorial Day weekend coming up quickly, there is no doubt that cooking out on the grill is on everyone’s minds. But, it is important to keep in mind the

Ecumen honors Elrose Milverstedt, a resident of Ecumen CountrySide in Owatonna, Minn., who is 104.

DL-Online tells the story of Cody Christen’s dedication to designing and building a new picnic shelter for Ecumen Detroit Lakes in order to earn his rank of Eagle Scout.

Ecumen honors Evelyn LeSuer, a resident of Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, Minn., who is 101.

Abittan Mill City is profiled in the current issue of Lavender Magazine.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: M State’s Magazine Tells the Success Story of Ecumen Detroit Lakes Nurse

Minnesota State Community and Technical College Magazine recently highlighted the success story of nurse Bobbi Jo Koons, who got her B.S. in nursing degree through Ecumen’s scholarship program while continuing

Minnesota is the nation’s number one healthiest state for seniors, according to the  2017 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report from the United Health Foundation, a private nonprofit founded by United

In honor of Nurses Week, the National Institute on Aging offers best practices for health professionals when communicating with older patients.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Minneapolis Leaders Praise Abiitan Mill City’s Vision for Urban Senior Living Minneapolis

One in five people reading this sentence has some form of mental illness.

The 2017 Velocity class recently visited the Interact Center in St. Paul to see empowerment in action. 

Abiitan Mill City is the only senior living building in the downtown Minneapolis core and is designed specifically for the current generation of retiring Baby Boomers who want active lifestyles

Aging in Stride offers information on seniors and sleep just in honor of National Sleep Awareness Week.

Give aging a new voice – one that reflects what today's older adults have to say! More than ever before, older Americans are working longer, trying new things and engaging

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Detroit Lakes Couple Dies Hours Apart After 64 Years Together For

Ecumen honors Henry (Hank) Niemiec, a resident of Ecumen Seasons at Maplewood, who is 100.

Stacy Hanley, Ecumen Senior Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer, is a passionate advocate of Meals on Wheels, one of the most popular volunteer activities of Ecumen employees.

Renowned chef, Daniel Thomas, serves up 5 tips for healthier dining in a recent article for AARP.

For the past 64 years, John and Anne Alexander were virtually inseparable. Within hours of each other, they died together last week at Ecumen Detroit Lakes, where they both were

Ecumen honors Bernice Farber, a resident of Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, Minn., who is 100.

Learn more about our fundraising efforts, innovative programs and those who support our changing aging efforts in Ecumen's 2016 Philanthropy Report.

Ecumen honors Fern Ann Trierweiler, a resident of Ecumen Seasons at Maplewood, who is 100.

Ecumen Brooks, a 50-unit senior housing and services community in Owatonna, Minn., has opened a new secure memory care area.

Ecumen Hospice-Litchfield held its annual hospice dinner and silent auction April 7, 2017, and raised about $11,000 – money used to help pay for care and supplies that are not

AARP offers a quiz and some uncommon options to soothe your symptoms this season.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Rose Senior Living-Avon Hosts Grand Opening Ceremony Rose Senior Living-Avon, a new

Rose Senior Living-Avon, a new senior living community  in Avon, Ohio, hosted a gala ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house March 31.

Victoria Amaris, an anthropologist who specializes in cross-cultural communication, recently gave Ecumen employees an overview of the challenges and issues faced by Hispanic and Latino people and discussed common misconceptions

In a recent article, Go4Life, discusses research showing that the benefits of exercise go far beyond just physical wellbeing. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: 107-Year-Old Verna Bloom Reveals Her Secret To Longevity Meet Verna Bloom, who

Ecumen honors its dedicated social workers — the pathfinders and problem solvers of senior care.  

Meet Verna Bloom, who lives at Ecumen-managed Sunnyside Care Center in Lake Park, Minn. She has lived through eight major U.S. wars, watched 19 presidents come and go, and experienced

Ecumen honors Floyd Skinner, a resident of  Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley, who is 100.

Ecumen Regional Operations Directors Paul Libbon and Craig Barness joined a delegation of LeadingAge Minnesota members on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, this week to meet with the Minnesota congressional

In a recent article, AARP offers 3 can’t-miss tips for clearing away those cobwebs.

In honor of National Nutrition Month, Ecumen is sharing 10 ways to make healthier restaurant choices, courtesy of the National Institute on Aging.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Two Ecumen-Managed Communities Receive Workforce Grants for a New Program To Help

There’s something primal about beating drums that brings people together. 

Two Ecumen-managed communities in rural Minnesota are teaming up to create a new program aimed at increasing employee retention by helping employees balance their work and personal lives. Pelican Valley

AARP offers several exercises to help keep up an exercise routine, even with chronic joint pain. 

Ecumen-managed Grand Village, a senior living and care center community in Grand Rapids, Minn., has received a $25,000 Workforce Solutions Grant from the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation to help recruit new

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Bethany Community Receives Workforce Grant To Help Recruit and Retain Caregivers

Do you know the distinction between Islam and Muslims?  Or why Muslim women wear headscarves? Or how Muslims regard Jesus?

Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, Minn., has received a $25,000 Workforce Solutions Grant from the LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation to help recruit new employees to senior care and to retain them

A recent article for AARP discusses five great immune-boosting foods to help the public, especially seniors, stay healthy this winter. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Mark Ritchie Shares the Story of Minnesota’s World’s Fair Bid with Abiitan

Former Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie paid a call on a welcoming audience of Abiitan Mill City residents this week to talk about his current job promoting Minnesota’s bid

For the past five years, St. Mark’s Living has been raising money for Austin, Minnesota’s annual “Paint the Town Pink” to support research on breast cancer prevention and treatment. 

A recent article for AgingCare explains that there is no typical “older personality.”

Over the past 102 years, Eleanore Ebeling, a resident of Ecumen Meadows in Worthington, Minn., has gathered a lot of wonderful memories. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Wednesdays with Genny, Ecumen Hospice Volunteer Hospice volunteers know a secret. The

Ecumen-managed Pelican Valley Senior Living in Pelican Rapids received the 2017 LeadingAge Minnesota Community Impact Award.

The Journal, a newspaper serving downtown and northeast Minneapolis, this week highlights Ecumen’s Abiitan Mill City and Smith & Porter Restaurant.

Genny Swanner of Chisago City shares the rewards of hospice volunteering.

Learn how to spot a health scam from an honest advertisement.

Wendy Griese's purpose in life is to help others find their purpose. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Why Calling Older Adults ‘Sweetie’ or ‘Honey’ Is Ageist Using pet names

A heartwarming story of how the need of one resident at Ecumen Detroit Lakes made life better for many other residents.

Using pet names and child-like vocabulary with older adults is one of the most common ageist behaviors by well-meaning people.

A study from the Journal of Medicinal Foods suggests one food could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Ecumen honors Margaret Rose, a resident of Ecumen Centennial House, who is 100.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Smith & Porter, New Restaurant at Abiitan Mill City, Now Open Smith

Dr. Bill Thomas encourages another way to think about Alzheimer's without the "tragedy narrative."

The National Institute on Aging offers several tips on how to spot, treat and prevent hypothermia to help older adults stay safe this winter.

Recently, Piecemakers Quilt Guild donated handmade “dignity quilts” to Ecumen North Branch. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Favorite Blog Post: A Hospice Client Gives His Nurse a Day She

AARP’s Caregiver Resource Center offers a guide that can help first-time caregivers prepare to care in five simple steps.

Though losing teeth and getting dentures as we aged was commonplace in the past, it should not be expected as we move into the future.

Smith & Porter, a New American restaurant with a casual atmosphere, is now open in Ecumen’s new Abiitan Mill City building at 428 South 2nd St., Minneapolis. 

Zvago Glen Lake Cooperative, a new senior housing community on the north shore of Glen Lake in Minnetonka, is planning for residents to start moving in sometime in April 2017.

Roger's last wish was one more tractor ride. And what a ride it was.

Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria is 100 years old this year.

The National Institute on Aging says, “learning about your family health history may help you know if you are at increased risk for certain diseases or medical conditions, like Alzheimer's

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: In Loving Memory of Peter Hilleboe: A Tall Man Whose Legacy Made

An article by the Huffington Post details a recent study finding that pets improved the health of their owners “by lowering blood pressure and regulating the heart rate during stressful

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Unique High School Program Helps Students Become Nursing Assistants A high school

Ecumen-managed Rose Senior Living Avon, a new senior living community adjacent to the Richard E. Jacobs Health Campus in Avon, Ohio, is now open, and residents have begun moving into

A high school in Alexandria, Minn., has developed a unique program that allows students to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and help fill a pressing need for senior care workers.

If increasing or improving your exercise routine is one of your New Year’s resolutions for 2017, the National Institute on Aging offers several different resources.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Clarkfield Care Center Honors Its Four Centenarians The Clarkfield Care Center recently

The National Institute on Aging offers some tips for seniors to help keep track of medications, not only during the holidays, but all of the time.

From the Changing Aging Blog, here is a roundup of the 2016 posts that captured the most reader attention.

The Clarkfield Care Center recently honored four of its residents who are 100 or more.

The Cleveland Clinic offers six practical tips to help you start exercising. 

Ecumen-managed Luther Park at Sandpoint, ID, has been named by Assisted Living Today among the “Top 10 Assisted Living Communities in Idaho.”

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: The Acting Debut of 107-Year-Old Judy Johnson of Ecumen Parmly LifePointes Judy

Judy Johnson, who was born in 1909 during the silent movie era, became an actor when she was 104, shortly after she moved to Ecumen Parmly LifePointes in Chisago City. 

If you are searching for gifts for the seniors in your life this holiday season, look no further!

In a recent story about how older people find peace through telling their life stories, The New York Times features a program at The Harbor, an Ecumen-manage assisted living community

Last week was “National Influenza Vaccination Awareness Week” and Ecumen thought it was important to remind its readers of the importance of getting vaccinated, especially for seniors.

Ecumen honors Erna Panning, a resident of The Harbor in Norwood Young American, who is 100 years old.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Lakeshore Nurse Hanna Norman: A Lifelong Journey into Nursing Some say

For the past nine years, students with disabilities from the Life Work Center have been coming to Ecumen North Branch to socialize with residents — with heartwarming results.

Watercolor artists at Ecumen Lakeview Commons recently exhibited their work.  See the video.

St. Mark's Living in Austin, Minn., received this year’s Champion of Care award given by Heartland Hospice. 

A 2016 study, developed by The Wildlife Trusts found that people were 30% more likely to rate their health as “excellent” after spending time in nature every day for a month.

Ecumen Lakeshore Nurse Hanna Norman, RN, was recently featured in a cover story in Career Impact magazine, published for the community, alumni and friends of Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: State Loan Forgiveness Program for Nursing Home Nurses Accepting Applications Now The

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is now taking applications for its loan forgiveness for nursing home RNs and LPNs.

It can be hard to keep a normal exercise routine, especially during this busy holiday season. The National Institute on Aging offers some tips on restarting and staying on track

At the end of life, music’s natural calming effect can help hospice patients express and experience a wide array of emotions at a time when self-expression and coping matters more

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Grief and the Holidays: 15 Ways to Cope “If your life has

Massage therapy is one of the most effective ways to help hospice patients relax and find comfort in their last days and hours. 

With Thanksgiving coming up tomorrow, Ecumen thought it would be helpful to share some tips to keep from overeating during the holidays.

With the holidays approaching, Ecumen knows that those who have lost a loved one will be facing changes and, inevitably, grief. Read this post for 15 ways to cope with

The first holidays after the death of a loved one can be a looming and stressful time for loved ones. To help the family and friends of those who passed

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Five Ecumen Sites Get National “Best Nursing Home” Rating from U.S. News

As St. Paul resident Molly McCarthy was considering volunteer opportunities, she remembered a significant event in her own life – when her father was in hospice just before he died.

Two Ecumen Detroit Lakes women recently were featured in Women 360, a magazine all about Becker County women, published by Detroit Lakes Newspapers.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says that, older adults need roughly the same amount of sleep as all adults, but, in the cases of many older adults, this is not reality

Five Ecumen owned and managed sites in Minnesota have received a “Best Nursing Home” rating by U.S. News & World Report magazine. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen CEO Kathryn Roberts Urges Colleagues To End Ageism Ecumen CEO Kathryn

Ecumen honors Eldora Clark, a resident of Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, who is 103.

Many Ecumen residents are veterans with rich and deeply moving stories about their military experience and how profoundly it influenced their lives.

Veterans Day is observed in many ways across the United States – parades, ceremonies and even with retail, service and restaurant discounts to honor Veterans. But do you know the

Flu season is upon us and medical professionals are advising the public to get their flu shot "the earlier, the better." In a recent blog post for The Huffington Post

Ecumen CEO Kathryn Roberts is passionate about ending ageism.  In a recent speech, she urges her colleages to make ending ageism a top national priority. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Teamwork and Training Save the Life of an Ecumen Bethany Community Employee

Ecumen honors Orphea Mattsfield, a resident of Ecumen of Litchfield, who is 105.

Heritage at Irene Woods, an Ecumen-managed senior living community near Memphis, Tenn., has been voted “Best Assisted Living” in the Collierville area by readers of the Collierville Independent.

When Lynn Malvin's heart stopped, her coworkers at Ecumen Bethany Community saved her life with a well-trained quick response.

The Minnesota Statewide Activity Professionals (MN SWAP) recently named Deb Dodgen as Volunteer of the Year for her work at Ecumen Meadows in Worthington, Minn.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: An Art Trove at Ecumen Meadows Wows the Worthington Community Art treasures

Ecumen honors Joe Hickman, a resident of Ecumen Detroit Lakes, who is 101.

Scott McGuire has been named Ecumen’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He replaces Dennis Johnson, who retired after 11 years with Ecumen. For the past 17 years, McGuire

Ecumen is exploring the possiblitity of assuming operation of the financially strapped downtown Minneapolis Skyway Senior Center.  

Kiza Olson, Housing Director at Ecumen Oaks & Pines in Hutchinson, Minn., is among 24 Litchfield area residents participating in the Blandin Foundation’s Community Leadership Program.

Art treasures were hiding behind closed doors throughout Ecumen Meadows in Worthington.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: A Tribute to Pastor John Peterson, Beloved Hospice Chaplain in Litchfield Pastor

Ecumen honors Frieda Westphal, a resident of Ecumen Pathstone Living, who is 103.

Ecumen honors Ellenora Mattfield, a resident of Grand Village, who is 100.

Ecumen honors Ellenora Mattfield, a resident of Grand Village, who is 100.

Ecumen honors Ellenora Mattfield, a resident of Grand Village, who is 100.

Ecumen honors Ethelyn “Sam” Thunstrom, a resident of Ecumen North Branch, who is 100.  

As part of her effort to change the stigma around Alzheimer’s and dementia, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar recently visited Ecumen North Branch to talk about Act on Alzheimer’s.

Pastor John Peterson, the recently retired Hospice Chaplain at Ecumen Home Care & Hospice – Litchfield, has a special way of meeting people where they are — with grace and

Ten Thousand Things Theater Company of Minneapolis traveled to Duluth last week to perform Shakespeare’s “Pericles” for Ecumen Lakeshore residents, who were on the edge of their seats for the

Zvago Glen Lake Cooperative, a senior housing community opening in the spring of 2017 on the north shore of Glen Lake in Minnetonka, is hosting a seminar on how to

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Bethany Community Named Employer of the Year by Lakes Area Professional

If you've had trouble understanding Alzheimer's, try this short, straightfoward video explanation. 

Ecumen Bethany Community in Alexandria, Minn., has been named the Employer of the Year (in the large employer category) by Lakes Area Professional Women. 

Zvago Glen Lake Cooperative, a new senior housing community on the north shore of Glen Lake in Minnetonka, is holding an open house this Saturday,October 15, from 10 a.m. to

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Velocity 2017 Class Holds First Workshop    The Ecumen Velocity 2017

The Ecumen Velocity 2017 class held its first two-day session this week, focusing on the theme of “Authenticity and Emotional Intelligence.”

Ecumen honors Lillian Jorgenson, a resident of Ecumen Sand Prairie in St. Peter, who is 101.

“Celebrating Wisdom,” sponsored by the Minnesota Board on Aging, is a Twin Cities Public Television (TPT) program that examines getting older in American and in Minnesota.

Digital technology empowers older people to stay in the workforce in ways that can benefit everyone.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: A Purposeful Woman: Wendy Griese, Life Enrichment Manager at Grand Village Wendy

Ecumen honors Ellen Saine, a resident of Ecumen Scenic Shores, who is 101.​

Wendy Griese is very clear about her purpose in life. It’s to help others find their purpose.

Stand up and get moving!  Those are the watchwords for Active Aging Week, which runs from September 25 to October 1.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Dramatic Demographic Shift in Age Affects Employers, Seniors and Communities in Minnesota

Ecumen honors Irma Kreie, a resident of Ecumen Oaks & Pines in Hutchinson, Minn., who is 100.  

Finding the right people to fill open positions is a growing challenge for employers all across Minnesota, especially for aging care providers who have a large number of retiring employees

Ecumen is joining care providers across the country to celebrate National Adult Day Services Week, September 18-24, 2016.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting:

Ecumen honors Irene Williams, a resident of Ecumen Pathstone Living in Mankato, who is 100.  

The woonerf next to Ecumen's Abiitan in downtown Minneapolis is now in place.  Get the details.

The “mateys” at Ecumen Prairie Lodge in Brooklyn Center recently put on a pirate play, complete with pretend swords, sea monsters, booty and buccaneers.  It was a glorious day of

A special jukebox brings back memories at Ecumen Pathstone Living.

Ecumen honors Helen Hansen, a resident of Ecumen Oaks & Pines, who is 105.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Things You Can Do as a Long-Distance Caregiver If you live far

If you live far away from a family member or friend who needs care, here are some tips on things you can do.

Ecumen honors Eileen Pederson, a resident of Ecumen Detroit Lakes, who is 100. 

Ecumen honors Thelma Andersen, a resident of St. Mark's Living, who is 103.

Ecumen honors Milton Leske, a resident of Ecumen Oaks & Pines in Hutchinson, Minn., who is 101. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Honoring Dr. John Beaumier and His Life of Giving Back  When a

When a young John Beaumier was trying to make his way in the world, someone was always there for him. With help from others along the way, he became a

You’ve no doubt seen those pervasive lists that honor youthful leaders — 40 under 40 or 30 under 30. This begs the question: Is leadership solely the province of youth?

A new ramp to Lake Winona makes access to the lake much easier and safer.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Join Ecumen at the Minnesota State Fair    Ecumen is WCCO Radio’s

Join Ecumen at the Minnesota State Fair today.  Ecumen is WCCO Radio’s broadcast partner for Day 5 of the Minnesota State Fair on Monday, August 29, which is Senior &

Ecumen honors Irene Jerrow, a resident of Ecumen Pathstone Living, who is 100.

The National Institute on Aging's "Caring for a Person with Alzheimer's Disease" guide will help you learn about and cope with the changes and challenges of caring for someone living

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Century Club: Happy 104th Birthday Muriel Swenson Ecumen honors Muriel Swenson,

Ecumen honors Leona Hanson, a resident of Heritage Living Center in Park Rapids, who is 102.

Ecumen honors Albert Ruckelshausen, a resident of Ecumen Meadows in Worthington, who is 103.

Ecumen honors Margaret Letourneau, a resident of Ecumen Parmly LifePointes, who is 100.

Ecumen honors Erma Lefebvre, a resident of Ecumen Bethany Community, who is 100.

Legendary Guthrie Theater costume designer Annette Garceau, a resident of Ecumen Lakeview Commons in Maplewood, Minn., is celebrating her 103rd birthday today. 

Ecumen honors Muriel Swenson, a resident of Sunnyside Care Center, who is 104.

Willmar, Minn., is among the first rural areas to launch the memory cafe approach to help those with dementia. 

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen Pathstone Living Caregivers Help Wayward Turtle Get Back Home    Caregiving

A wandering turtle brings back childhood memories at Ecumen Pathstone Living in Mankato. 

Follow the debate on whether Hollywood is changing its ageist views.

A weaving class at Ecumen Lakeview Commons exceeded all expectations.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Gertie Nelson Checks Another Adventure off Her Bucket List with a Little

Skydiving Gretie Nelson keeps checking adventures off her bucket list.

Ecumen Evergreens of Moorhead is hosting a “Scrubs Camp” to give middle and high school students an opportunity to explore healthcare careers firsthand.

Ecumen honors Edith Tauer, a resident of Ecumen Lakeview Commons in Maplewood, Minn., who is 100.

Ecumen-managed Luther Park at Sandpoint, ID, has been voted the “best senior living community” in Bonner County in a reader survey conducted by the Bonner County Daily Bee newspaper.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Ecumen’s Velocity Leadership Program Graduates Class of 2016    The Ecumen Velocity

Ha Thu Rethwisch has dedicated more than 40 years to serving the residents of Ecumen Detroit Lakes with dignity and compassion as a Nursing Assistant.

The Ecumen Velocity class of 2016 has just graduated from the year-long program focused on building leadership skills and developing innovative approaches to aging services.

Ecumen Detroit Lakes recently installed a warm water aquatic pool that is becoming a big hit with area residents.

Hospice is not a topic people tend to seek information about — until they need it.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: The Day Ecumen Prairie Lodge Became a Dance Hall        A spirited dance

A spirited dance troupe recently transformed Ecumen Prairie Lodge in Brooklyn Center into a makeshift dance hall full of smiles, memories and movement. 

Older adults (that is, people aged 65 years and older) are more prone to heat stress than younger people for several reasons: Older adults do not adjust as well as

Ecumen Pathstone Living has been voted best senior living community in Mankato by readers of Mankato Magazine.

Did you miss last week's most-read Changing Aging blog posts? Ecumen's online visitors found these articles most interesting: Centenarian and Navy Veteran Doris Brand Taught Kids to Read and Pilots

Ecumen honors Doris Brand, a resident of Ecumen Parmly LifePointes, who will be 101 July 16.

When it comes to customer service, Abiitan Mill City's new Executive Director does not mince words.

Cori Ballew, Ecumen Hospice Volunteer Specialist, talks about how and why to become a hospice volunteer.

Using brain-game apps to improve mental acuity are good as far as they go. You get better at playing games but not necessarily smarter or fitter.

"You think you're changing [the residents'] lives, but in reality, they're changing yours."