Caring for veterans in senior living means creating opportunities to recognize the lives they have lived, the stories they carry and the contributions they have made.
There is something special about seeing older veterans take to the skies, surrounded by people who have gathered simply to celebrate them and their service
Recently, residents from all five Cascade Senior Living Communities had the opportunity to participate in the Spirit of ’45 celebration at Tacoma Narrows Airport in Gig Harbor. Veterans from across our communities, including veterans living in Memory Care at Cascade Park Gardens, were invited to take to the skies, share stories and memories and enjoy a day centered around recognizing their service.
What Was the Spirit of ’45 Experience Like?
Our residents were surrounded by vintage airplanes, fellow veterans and community members who came together to celebrate them. And, of course, we captured some amazing photos along the way. Our veterans were photographed flying in the sky and posing proudly beside the airplanes, creating memories we are excited to share with their families and our communities.
But the experience was about more than the flight itself. It gave our residents another opportunity to connect with one another, share memories and reflect on the experiences that have shaped their lives.
For veterans, those shared stories can be especially meaningful. Spending time with others who have served creates a natural opportunity for connection and camaraderie while giving the wider community a chance to say, simply, “Thank you.”
Veterans Living in Memory Care Took Part, Too
One especially meaningful part of the day was seeing veterans living in Memory Care at Cascade Park Gardens participate alongside veterans from our other communities.
Meaningful experiences don’t have to look the same for every resident. Opportunities to revisit familiar interests, connect with others and participate in community events can create moments of joy and connection.
The Spirit of ’45 celebration gave our Memory Care veterans the chance to be part of the same shared experience as their fellow Cascade veterans. They could take in the airplanes, spend time with others and enjoy a day dedicated to honoring their service.
Why Honoring Veterans Matters
Recognizing a person’s history is an important part of creating a community where residents feel known and valued for veterans, that includes making space for the stories, traditions and experiences connected to their military service.
Research on reminiscence therapy with older veterans has found that structured opportunities to reflect on and share meaningful memories can have positive effects on well-being, including depressive symptoms and life satisfaction (Wu, 2011). Events like Spirit of ’45 offer another opportunity to bring that spirit of recognition and connection into everyday senior living.
How Does Cascade Honor Veterans Throughout the Year?
Honoring our veterans is something we take seriously. Our communities find meaningful ways to recognize the veterans who call Cascade home throughout the year, with special attention around Veterans Day.
One of our favorite traditions is when local Cub Scouts personally pin American flags on our veterans and thank them for their service. There is something incredibly powerful about watching one generation look a veteran in the eye and say, “Thank you.”
These moments create a connection between generations and remind our veterans that their service has not been forgotten. Our veterans deserve to know that their service is remembered and appreciated throughout the year, not only on Veterans Day.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Partners
A huge thank you to AgeRight Advantage Health Plan for sponsoring this experience and helping make such a memorable day possible for our residents. Partnerships like this give our communities opportunities to create extraordinary experiences for the people we have the privilege of serving.
To every veteran within our Cascade Senior Living Services family: we see you, we honor you and we thank you.
If you have a veteran in your family who is looking for a senior living community where their experiences, stories and individuality are valued, we would love to meet you. Contact Cascade Senior Living at (253) 474-1741 to schedule a tour and learn more about our communities and levels of care.
FAQs
Q1. What types of veteran-specific activities does Cascade Senior Living offer?
Cascade communities find meaningful ways to honor veterans throughout the year, including special ceremonies, programs, social gatherings and community events. Recent experiences have included the Spirit of ’45 celebration and Cub Scouts personally pinning American flags on veterans.
Q2. Can veterans in Memory Care participate in outings like the Spirit of ’45?
Yes. Veterans living in Memory Care, including residents at Cascade Park Gardens, may participate in meaningful community outings and events when appropriate. The Spirit of ’45 celebration gave Memory Care veterans an opportunity to take part alongside veterans from Cascade’s other communities.
Q3. How can I find out if my veteran loved one is a good fit for Cascade Senior Living?
Families can contact Cascade Senior Living to discuss their loved one’s needs, learn about available levels of care and schedule a personalized tour. A conversation with the community team can help families determine which living option may be appropriate.
