Farmington Senior Honored For Compassion Helping Other Seniors

Middlewoods of Farmington

FARMINGTON, CT – A local resident of a Farmington assisted living facility was recently honored by a state organization for her work helping folks transition to the sometimes-difficult lifestyle of assisted living.

Middlewoods of Farmington resident Anne Shortier was recently recognized by the Connecticut Assisted Living Association (CALA) with the 2023 Outstanding Resident Accomplishment Award.

The award, given by CALA President Christopher Carter, was presented at the Waters Edge Resort and Spa in Westbrook on Friday, June 23.

Shortier was nominated for the award by members of the Middlewoods of Farmington team for the work she has done in cultivating relationships and a sense of belonging at the Farmington-based senior living community.

The team and fellow resident and friend, Mary Ann Smith, joined her at the awards ceremony.

“It’s important for prospective residents to hear from established residents about what life is really like in our community,” said Ginny Brown, director of community relations at Middlewoods. “Someone who understands the mixed emotions of making a move can empathize with and offer advice to prospects and their families. Anne is both a trusted resource and a friend to so many; we are so grateful for her.”

Since she moved in, Shortier has played an active role in promoting the community, representing Middlewoods at local senior fairs and welcoming new residents upon move in.

After moving to Middlewoods and once she found her own circle of friends, she made it her mission to ensure that each new resident has a successful transition.

She recruited her friends Mary Ann Smith and Lois Howard to help with this mission and together they take time to meet with prospective residents who are considering a move to senior living.

They offer authentic candor about the emotional experience of making a move and contrast that with the sense of camaraderie and friendship they now enjoy.

They share their stories through friendly conversation, tours, and even video, providing reassurance, encouragement and connection, according to Middlewoods.

“It was an incredible honor and a complete surprise,” said Shortier. “I was fortunate to make a quick and easy transition to Middlewoods, but for new folks coming in, I couldn’t help but try to reassure them how great the staff is here.

"It’s amazing how steering someone to an activity or program and seeing them smile and have fun is worth everything. I love watching them grow here at Middlewoods.”

Along with Shortier’s award, UMH, the senior living provider organization which manages Middlewoods, also received three additional awards in recognition of outstanding team members and residents from its Shelton and Newington communities.

Middlewoods of Farmington Independent and Assisted Living Community is affiliated with UConn Health and located at 509 Middle Road in Farmington. It is owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, a nonprofit, mission-based organization in Shelton. For more information about senior living at Middlewoods, contact Ginny Brown at 860-284-5700 or visit its website at www.middlewoodsoffarmington.org.