At Sun Health Communities, Erin Richardson, Director of the Healthy Aging and Functional Ability Program, is dedicated to transforming the lives of residents. With a background in occupational therapy, Erin works tirelessly to create an environment where aging is not just about living longer, but about living vibrantly, with purpose, and with support at every stage.
“There’s a common misconception that to age healthily, you must be free of disease,” Erin said. “Healthy aging isn’t about being disease-free; it’s about living your healthiest life in the present moment—engaging in daily activities, feeling vibrant, and participating in life, no matter where you are in your aging journey.”
Home Safety Assessments: A Path to Independence and Security
One of the foundational services of Sun Health’s Healthy Aging Program is the Home Safety Assessment. Through this personalized evaluation, Erin helps residents assess their living spaces for potential hazards and recommends simple yet impactful changes to enhance safety. Whether it’s installing grab bars in the bathroom, adding extra lighting, or rearranging furniture for better flow, these adjustments can make a significant difference.
The best part? These assessments are free of charge and are designed to create a safer, more supportive environment for residents. The goal is not just safety, but also to empower individuals to remain as independent as possible while participating fully in their daily routines.
When people are afraid of falling or getting hurt, they tend to limit their activities, which only increases the risk of falls and other issues. If people stay active and continue doing the things they love—no matter their physical condition – then that is a great benefit to their health, mobility, and well-being.
Proactive Care: Spotting Early Signs of Trouble
In aging, prevention is key. One of the most critical aspects is being proactive in identifying potential issues before they become serious problems. For instance, changes in how quickly someone moves—whether walking, driving, or even responding in a conversation—can be early indicators of emerging health concerns.
Other red flags include:
– Frequent falls or unsteady gait
– Changes in sleep patterns that might suggest underlying health issues
– Persistent or worsening pain, which could be the result of untreated injuries or chronic conditions
“Pain is one of the biggest signs that something’s wrong,” Erin shared. “Pain is not a normal part of aging, so it’s important not to ignore it and get it checked out. Early intervention can prevent further complications, such as the formation of scar tissue, which can make treatment more difficult down the road.”
The Heart of Healthy Aging: Support and Engagement
At Sun Health, the focus is not just on physical health but on emotional well-being and maintaining an active, engaged lifestyle. Through the Healthy Aging and Functional Ability Program, Erin offers support, education, and guidance tailored to each resident’s needs. Even small interventions, such as adjusting a routine or adding assistive devices, can have a huge impact on a person’s ability to stay independent and involved in their community.
A key aspect of Sun Health’s commitment to healthy aging is support for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or dementia. Sun Health offers a Dementia-Capable Care Program, which combines specialized training, a compassionate care philosophy, and practical tools to help residents with dementia stay engaged with life. From memory care strategies to support groups for caregivers, Sun Health provides a comprehensive network of support.
“We focus on what people can still do, rather than what they can no longer do,” Erin said. “We meet individuals where they are in their journey, and help them live as fully as possible, no matter what stage of dementia they may be experiencing.”
Aging with Dignity and Independence
Healthy aging is about more than just staying healthy; it’s about finding the right balance of support and independence. Even if someone needs help with just a few tasks, they can still maintain their dignity and independence. No matter how much or little assistance someone requires, they should always feel empowered to live their life on their terms.
Looking Ahead: A Personalized Approach to Healthy Aging
The key to successful aging is monitoring progress and adapting to the changing needs of everyone. The Healthy Aging and Functional Ability Program at Sun Health Communities is designed to provide residents with the care, support, and resources they need to thrive as they age.
Whether it’s through home safety assessments, proactive care, or specialized dementia support, Sun Health is committed to ensuring residents live their best lives—whatever that may look like for them. To learn more about the many benefits of living at a Sun Health Community, visit SunHealthCommunities.org.
