Nothing better than ending my week of a full calendar and heavy schedule with a refreshing visit to The Lodge at Bethany.
Regina Bell, Administrator, called and invited me to their Disco Party. YES!! I was thrilled, and I accepted and attended. What a mood changer!!
The decor was outstanding… Balloons, streamers, fringes, disco balls of all sizes, and SPARKLE all around (tables, walls, banners and costumes)!
Love that 70’s music! Everyone was in the mood for a good time!
Most of the Residents, Staff, and Guests were attired in '70’s costumes: flower power short dresses, bell bottoms, wigs, sequin tops, headbands, and jumpsuits. You name it, they were wearing it! Groovy!!
Then the music started! ‘We Are Family,’ ‘Do the Hustle,’ and ‘Boogie Shoes’ were played (just to name a few), the dancing began, and the party started!! Even if you had a ‘not ready' look on your face, it wasn’t long before you broke a smile, started clapping your hands, and became ready for a FABULOUS time.
Break time was perfect with refreshing ginger ale (resembling the bubbly), sodas, chocolate eclairs, cream puffs, and Chex mix.
While chatting with one of the residents, I said smiling, “This is our decade," and she smiled back and waved her arms in the air saying, “OH YES!! My husband was a great dancer, and we danced every time we had a chance." Then she moved on to the dance floor to the song 'We Are Family.’
The staff passed around words to the songs and everyone started to sing in unison happily, waving their wands and having a GRAND time.
I must say it makes my heart happy to see the fun and interaction they have at these amazing events. Every time I visit, I am awed and amazed with the creativity and the interaction of the staff and residents.
Regina Bell, the Administrator at the Lodge, said, "Our staff are ‘all-in’ no matter what's asked, anything from dressing up in disco costumes to dancing ‘The Hustle.’ The happiness of our residents is what it is all about. Our goal is always for them to be engaged, healthy, and happy. After all, they are as young as they feel and this Disco Party transported the ‘Young and Young at Heart’ back to the 1970s through our very own ‘Time Machine.’ It's such an honor to be a part of their lives.”
Regina, in an earlier conversation, shared with me that they have two new programs starting in October (this month) for the residents. The Lodge is partnering with Pladd Dot music (Chris Mitchell) and the very talented instructor Mrs. Mary Hannah Samples to come weekly to teach ukulele lessons to some of the residents that have requested them.
In addition, Lori, a local Esthetician, will be visiting twice monthly for facials including a neck and shoulder massage during the facial..EXQUISITE!!
WOW...always something new and exciting! You may have seen the ‘Bethany Bus' in town at Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx, Ollie's, or even at the new Annie’s Nail Salon. The residents at the Lodge are truly NOT missing out.
Volunteer opportunities are always open at Bethany as well as other facilities in Statesboro. Seniors come join the fun! Who knows what is happening next...
Keep it FRESH and GROOVY for your NEXT Senior Moment!
