United Methodist Communities Shows Off New Senior Homes During Open House In Ocean City

Ocean City, NJ -- United Methodist Communities at the Shores recently invited guests to take tours of their newly renovated healthcare residence, which has been transformed into three new households.

Those who attended the Open House had the chance to tour the intimate dining rooms, cozy living rooms, and inviting working kitchens.

“After many complex conversations, we have begun to enact culture change, tilting the institutional model on its side,” United Methodist Communities President and CEO Larry Carlson said. “I want to commend The Shores for leading this dynamic organization-wide transition.”

Each household is home to 18 residents, and the overall goal is to make life feel more normal for the residents.

Executive Director Jennifer Courlas explained that consistent staff on each shift in each household builds rapport among residents and associates and fosters the household model, and all staff has been cross-trained.

Associates learn the simple pleasures and preferences of residents, reflecting their individuality.

This model gives residents more self-determination and steps away from a busy every minute mentality, United Methodist Communities said.

Residents decide when they will rise and go to sleep, eat their meals, bathe, and what level of activity suits their needs.

Three volunteers spoke about the connection they’ve formed with the seniors.

“I volunteer because The Shores did so much for my parents,” Egg Harbor Township resident Wendy Kern said. “I’ll always have a home here.”

In addition to more than six years of volunteering at The Shores, Kern also visits a former neighbor, who has moved there.

Maureen Grant, of Margate, and her daughter Karen Grant, of Somers Point, are also volunteers.

“When I left The Shores following a rehab stay, I felt so thankful that my daughter and I decided to volunteer here together,” Grant said.

“The care at The Shores is second to none,” said Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian, who was in attendance to give a commendation. “Thanks for all you do for Ocean City.”

New Jersey Assemblymen Bob Andrzejczak and R. Bruce Land were also in attendance.

United Methodist Communities’ remaining four full-service campuses are each at a different stage developing households.

For information about United Methodist Communities at The Shores, call Patti Smith at 609-399-8505 or visit UMCommunities.org/TheShores.

The attached image was provided