Water Aerobics for Seniors: Stay Active and Cool This Summer

Group of older women enjoying water aerobics together.

Quick Summary: Water aerobics for seniors provides a full-body, low-impact workout that keeps you cool when Memphis summers turn hot and humid. This guide covers the benefits of water aerobics, how pool therapy for arthritis can ease pain and stiffness, and five beginner-friendly water aerobics routines to try. Kirby Pines residents enjoy weekly water aerobics classes in the heated indoor pool at our Oasis Fitness Center and Spa.

Remember your high school years and the excitement of school letting out for summer?

As the year came to a close, you probably signed yearbooks with that classic line: Stay Cool!

When summer weather turns hot and humid in Memphis, staying cool is important, especially for older adults. As we age, our bodies cool down more slowly and our thirst signals become duller, making us more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

While it’s good to have a plan for staying out of the sun, warmer temperatures can also make staying active a challenge. The walking routine you’ve worked so hard to maintain isn’t as practical when high temperatures climb above 90 degrees.

During these dog days of summer, there’s one way to stay cool while also staying active: water aerobics.

Water aerobics routines provide a full-body, low-impact workout for older adults that keeps you cool while supporting your joints, building muscle strength, and improving your balance.

At Kirby Pines, we offer many ways for residents to stay active and be well, including weekly water aerobics classes at our Oasis Fitness Center and Spa. We’ve compiled this guide to review the benefits of water aerobics, highlight how these exercises can be used for arthritis and knee pain, and share five beginner-friendly water exercises for seniors to get you started.

Let’s dive right in!

What Are the Benefits of Water Aerobics?

No matter how active you are or how dedicated you are to your well-being, everyone’s body naturally changes as we age.

After about age 30, we begin to lose muscle mass, strength, and function through a process known as sarcopenia. Over time, wear and tear on our joints can lead to arthritis, which affects more than 50% of adults over 75. By the time we turn 80, changes in our inner ear can affect our balance and lead to falls, which are the leading cause of injury for adults over 65.

The good news? Exercising in water helps address these common age-related conditions at once.

Benefits of Water Exercises for Seniors

  • Reduces pressure on joints: Exercising in water leverages buoyancy, the force that pushes you upward. According to the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy, standing in waist-deep water cuts the amount of pressure on your joints in half. This continues to increase, so by the time you are shoulder-deep in water, the pressure is reduced by nearly 90%.
  • Increases resistance: Water is about 800 times denser than air. Its viscosity slows movement and provides additional resistance, adding gentle opposition to each movement. When fully immersed in water, your body faces 360 degrees of resistance, compared to weightlifting, which offers resistance only in one direction. Plus, water exercises allow for dual-action training, working opposing muscle groups like your biceps and triceps simultaneously.
  • Low-impact activity: For older adults with joint pain or arthritis, exercising in water helps reduce stress on your joints and prevents additional wear and tear. Additionally, low-impact water exercises for seniors help reduce the risk of further injury and speed up recovery time.
  • Warm water therapy: Exercising in a heated pool can have therapeutic benefits. Research has shown that pool therapy for arthritis can effectively relieve pain, improve function, and lower disease activity in older adults with rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis. Kirby Pines’ indoor pool is kept at a warmer temperature so residents can make the most of these benefits.

5 Water Aerobics Workouts for Seniors

Whether you can’t wait to get back in the water or you’re just dipping your toes in aquatic exercise, these simple movements offer an effective workout for anyone. These water aerobics routines can be done in chest-deep water near the wall of the pool. Start with 8-10 repetitions for one to two minutes, and increase the repetitions at your own pace.

Before starting any new fitness program, consult with your doctor, especially if you have a heart condition or if you are recovering from surgery. Be sure to drink water even if you don’t feel sweaty or thirsty. You may also want to consider water shoes to provide additional traction.

  • Water Walking (Forward and Backward)
    • Walk across the shallow end, heel to toe, with your shoulders squared over your hips. Use your arms to push and pull the water at your sides. Once you reach the wall, reverse and walk backwards.
      • Impact Level: Low
      • Resistance Level: Light-to-moderate
      • Muscle Groups: Works quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and core. Walking backward can also engage muscles around your spine, quads, and shins.
  • Standing March
    • Hold the wall or stand on your own. Lift one knee to hip height. Slowly lower your knee, then switch. For additional resistance, add opposite-arm swings.
      • Impact Level: Very low
      • Resistance Level: Light
      • Muscle Groups: Engages your hip flexors, quadriceps, and core. Good for improving balance and coordination.
  • Side Leg Lifts
    • Stand tall with one hand on the wall. Lift your outside leg out to the side, keeping your toes pointed forward and your torso upright. Lower slowly with control to achieve the full benefit of this movement.
      • Impact Level: Very low
      • Resistance Level: Light-to-moderate
      • Muscle Groups: Impacts your hip abductors, glutes, and core. Strong hip abductors are directly linked to a steadier gait.
  • Pool Noodle Chest Press
    • Hold a pool noodle horizontally at chest level with both hands, gripping wide. Press the noodle forward until your arms are fully extended, and pull it back to your chest. Keep the noodle submerged throughout the movement.
      • Impact Level: Very low
      • Resistance Level: Moderate-to-high upper-body resistance due to buoyancy
      • Muscle Groups: Works your chest, shoulders, upper back, arms, and core in one movement.
  • Heel-to-Toe Balance Walk
    • Walk in a straight line along the wall of the pool, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other like you’re walking a tightrope. Keep one hand near the wall for balance if needed. When you feel confident with the movement, try it hands-free.
      • Impact Level: Very low
      • Resistance Level: Light
      • Muscle Group: Engages your feet, ankles, calves, and core. It also helps train and improve your balance.

Holistic Wellness at Kirby Pines: Staying Active and Engaged Year-Round

No matter what the weather forecast has in store, Kirby Pines offers endless ways to stay active, socialize, and be at your best.

At our Oasis Fitness Center, we offer wellness programming tailored specifically to help seniors rebuild strength and improve stability. Every week, we offer low-impact strength training, water aerobics, chair yoga, and group exercise classes. We encourage residents to bring a friend along as a built-in accountability partner and enjoy the added mood-boosting benefit of socialization and connection.

When the weather is cooler, we have miles of walking trails on our gorgeous 60-acre campus. Rain or shine, our Walking Club meets weekly to walk outside or stroll the halls of Kirby Pines. If your idea of exercise is getting your hands dirty, our Garden Gro’ers group meets weekly in our 5,000 sq. ft greenhouse. Did you know that gardening burns 200-400 calories per hour?

At Kirby Pines, you’ll find ways to keep your body active, your mind engaged, and your spirit fulfilled, every day of the year.

If you’re ready to discover the benefits of an active, engaging lifestyle at Kirby Pines, now is the perfect time to visit. Contact our team today to schedule a tour. We’re happy to show you around the Oasis and any other area of campus you’d like to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the benefits of water aerobics for seniors?
A: Water aerobics for seniors targets four areas impacted by aging at once—joint pain and arthritis, sarcopenia, balance, and increased risk of falls.

  • Water’s buoyancy reduces pressure on your joints by 50% in waist-deep water and nearly 90% at shoulder depth.
  • Pool therapy for arthritis in warm water can help loosen stiff joints, effectively relieve pain, improve function, and lower disease activity in older adults with rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis.
  • Water’s density provides 360 degrees of natural resistance for building strength.
  • Water exercises for seniors are low-impact, protecting joints from additional wear and tear.
  • There is little risk of falling while participating in water aerobics. Water offers additional support for added confidence.

Q: Do you need to know how to swim to do water aerobics?
A: No. Water aerobics is performed while standing—not swimming—in chest-deep water with your feet on the pool floor and your head above water. Classes designed for older adults assume no swimming ability, and many participants stay near the wall for extra confidence and support.

Q: Why is water exercise a good choice for seniors in hot weather?
A: As we age, our bodies cool down more slowly and our thirst signals become less reliable, which raises the risk of heat-related illness. Exercising outdoors when temperatures climb above 90 degrees isn’t practical or safe. An indoor pool solves both problems: the water regulates your body temperature, the building is climate-controlled, and you get a complete workout without any sun exposure.

Q: Are water exercises for seniors available at Kirby Pines?

A: At Kirby Pines, we offer many ways for residents to stay active and be well, including weekly water aerobics classes at our Oasis Fitness Center and Spa.

We encourage residents to bring a friend along as a built-in accountability partner and enjoy the added mood-boosting benefit of socialization and connection.


Reflections by Maxie Dunnam

IN OUR DEATH, A RESURRECTION

Natalie Sleeth
Composer – Natalie Sleeth


Natalie Sleeth has given us one of the most popular hymns written during the past fifty years, “Hymn of Promise.” The last two lines of the hymn gives the core message: 

In our death, a resurrection; 
at the last, a victory, 
Unrevealed until its season, 
something God alone can see. 

She wrote the hymn for her husband, who was professor of preaching at the Iliff School of Theology. She claimed one of the central truths of the Christian faith – the promise that death is not the end. The resurrection of Christ gives credence to his claim, “Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:19). The heartbeat of the gospel is the death and resurrection of Jesus. 

Easter is coming, April 20, let’s not wait to celebrate. I urge you! Don’t let a day pass between now and then that you don’t give some thought to Easter’s real meaning and whether you have claimed it for yourself. You probably have a family member or a friend you will want to share this with. 

HYMN OF PROMISE 

In the bulb, there is a flower 
In the seed, an apple tree 
In cocoons, a hidden promise 
Butterflies will soon be free 

In the cold and snow of winter 
There’s a spring that waits to be 
Unrevealed until its season 
Something God alone can see 

There’s a song in every silence 
Seeking word and melody 
There’s a dawn in every darkness 
Bringing hope to you and me 

From the past will come the future 
What it holds, a mystery 
Unrevealed until its season 
Something God alone can see 

In our end is our beginning 
In our time, infinity 
In our doubt, there is believing 
In our life, eternity 
In our death, a resurrection 
At the last, a victory 

Unrevealed until its season 
Something God alone can see


Congratulations to Our Champion of the Month: Lavonica Brown

Lavonica Brown

LAVONICA BROWN 

Medical Supervisor 

Describe your family: I come from a big family of 16; 11 girls and 5 boys. 

Describe yourself in five words: Motivated, creative, leader, loyal, team player.

What do you do for fun: Plan a movie outing with my grandkids.

Do you have any hobbies: Playing volleyball.

What is your favorite thing about your job: The people here are my second family.

What is Your favorite food: Steak.

What is your favorite song: Look at God by Koryn Hawthorne.

What is something you are proud of: Completing some of my goals

What would you like people to know about you: I have selective memory, but can be very forgetful.

We are extremely happy to announce Lavonica Brown, affectionately known as “L.B.”, as our April Champion of the Month! L.B. has been nominated for her unwavering commitment to ensuring the EVS department is well-staffed and running smoothly, no matter the challenges that arise. Since joining Kirby Pines in 2015, L.B. has consistently demonstrated a “can-do” attitude, dedication, and a strong commitment to excellence. Her efforts and positive spirit truly embody what it means to be a Kirby Pines Champion. 

– Trudy Schenkenberger, Director of Human Resources 


Trolls Save the Humans

Thomas Dambo

Have you heard the BIG news?! Trolls are at the Memphis Botanic Garden to help save the humans. At the great “Trolliefolkyfest” in a secret place, six young trolls made a pact to band together and help save the humans by rediscovering nature and teaching us how to live in harmony with the earth. They recognized the hope within each of us to take action and make positive changes toward a greater future. Lean into the lore that this larger-than-life fairytale brings to the Garden as art, nature, and messages of sustainability intertwine in this unique outdoor exhibition. 

Ronja Redeye
Communicator
Kamma Can
Creator
Ibbi Pip
Optimist
Rosa Sunfinger
Introvert
Sofus Lotus
Listener
Basse Buller
Rebel
Thomas Dambo

About Thomas Dambo – Thomas Dambo is considered the world’s leading recycle artist, having been taught from a young age the value of recycling, sustainability, and unlimited imagination. Before embarking on the path of building larger-than-life sculptures, Thomas led a multifaceted life that allowed him to express his creativity via music, street art, and scenic design. After graduating from the Kolding Design School with a master’s degree in interactive design, Thomas began his current journey of using recycled materials to create colorful art installations, building the foundation for his artwork today. 

Thomas’ vision is to create art that inspires people to go explore, have adventures in nature, and demonstrates that trash can be turned into something beautiful. Today, Thomas is known internationally for his larger-than-life Troll sculptures made from recycled wood. With 87 sculptures all over the world, these Trolls have begun to have a life of their own. Popping up in Denmark, USA, France, Germany, China, South Korea, Chile, and many more on the way, the message of sustainability and unlimited imagination have reached millions through in person visits, shared photos, and international media coverage. 

Join the Travelers as they head to the Memphis Botanic Gardens for this unique exhibition on Monday, April 14th at 10:15 am – see calendar for details. 


Resident Spotlight: Carolyn Hladky 

Carolyn Hladky

A LIFE OF VOLUNTEERING 

There is a truism that states, “If you want something done, give it to a busy person to do!” There isn’t anyone at Kirby Pines who is busier than Carolyn Hladky. She is involved in a myriad of activities and volunteers her time in various ways. 

Carolyn moved to Kirby Pines from New Jersey. However, she spent her first 18 years in Memphis. Born in 1941 as Carolyn Welch, she and her family lived in a small apartment in the back of a “Mom and Pop” store in East Memphis, which her father bought when he returned from serving in the Army. He would own the store for 30 years, but the family moved to the White Station area when Carolyn was seven years old. 

Carolyn remembers her childhood as a happy time, playing with children in the neighborhood and her older brother, Jimmie. For school, she attended East Elementary, White Station and Memphis Christian. When the Memphis Christian School became Harding Academy, Carolyn was among their first graduates in 1959. Her family attended the Church of Christ regularly, and Carolyn loved all the activities provided. In fact, her faith became so strong that she became involved, at an early age, as a volunteer in church ministry– working with young people in VBS. In high school, during summer vacations, she was involved in Camp Wyldewood near Searcy, Arkansas, first as a camper, and then on staff.

Following graduation, Carolyn enrolled in Harding College in Searcy, majoring in Elementary Education. In 1961, following her sophomore year, she volunteered to work at Camp Shiloh, a Christian camp in Mendham, New Jersey. She met another staff member, Roger Hladky, who was a student from Abilene Christian College. There was a mutual attraction for each other, so they began dating. Carolyn returned to Harding for her remaining two years of college; Roger transferred to Harding. They were married six months after they met in a beautiful December wedding. They lived in student housing until Carolyn graduated in 1963. Carolyn relates this story, “Before Roger and I married, I introduced him to my grandfather. When I spelled his last name, my grandfather replied, ‘Aw, that don’t spell nuthin!’ So, for our married life of 61 years, we often used that phrase when people questioned the spelling or pronunciation of our last name.”

Following graduation from Harding, Carolyn and Roger made the decision to move to Tabernacle, New Jersey. They already had friends there, so it made the transition easier. Carolyn began teaching in an elementary school while Roger continued his education. Later, Roger began teaching in middle school. They welcomed Holly, their only child, and would make Tabernacle their home for 60 years. Roger would eventually become principal of his school. Carolyn has this to say about Tabernacle, “It was a wonderfully nurturing place to live, work and attend church. Roger was an elder in the Church of Christ, and I taught the Ladies Class. We also served in Youth Ministry for over 50 years. What a rewarding experience! We have ‘kids’ all over the United States and regularly keep in touch with them.” For many years, Carolyn and Roger also directed a camping session each summer for high school students at Camp Manatawny in Pennsylvania. They also took their “teens” on two mission trips to Scotland.

Carolyn retired from teaching after 32 years but continued her involvement with church. Retirement allowed her time to enjoy reading, gardening and travel. She and Roger visited many well-known tourist sites in the U.S. and Europe.

Carolyn and Roger knew they needed to be close to Holly when Roger began to have multiple health issues. Holly lives in Collierville with her husband, Steve Pruitt; they have two daughters. Madison is a teacher, and Savannah is a nurse. Carolyn says, “Holly and I are ‘best friends’ and talk almost every day.” She continues, “With the wonderful assistance of Holly and Kirby staff, Roger and I moved to Kirby Pines in December 2022.” Sadly, Roger died unexpectedly a short time after they moved in.

Carolyn and Jimmie
Carolyn & Jimmie

Carolyn stays busy. She is involved in almost every activity available at Kirby Pines! She is in the Bookbaggers, Entertainers Chorus, Trivia Group, and “thrilled” that she was selected to be in the Rhythm Band. “I play a mean washboard,” she admits. She has learned to play Mahjong and Mexican Train, and she volunteers for the “Gift Shop.” She loves to cook and is always leaving “goodies” at resident’s doors–especially her neighbors. Carolyn says one of her most enjoyable activities is the time she spends reading and sharing with the residents in the Villa, and she finds serving on the Memorial and Advisory Committees very rewarding. She attends Bible classes and is a member of Germantown Church of Christ where she is involved with the Diaper Ministry. This group supplies diapers for a number of families, prays for them and assists them as needed. 

As such a positive and active member of our Kirby community, Carolyn has endeared herself to all. It is no secret that Carolyn loves to whistle! She says, “If you hear some ‘chirping’ in the hallways, it is probably me.” 

Carolyn says, “Moving to Kirby was like ‘coming home.’ I was so grateful to be among friends when Roger passed away. Everyone was so kind and supportive. I love my apartment and neighbors. I am enjoying this new chapter in my life and feel so truly blessed!”

Written by Joan Dodson, Resident of Kirby Pines.


Parkinson’s Disease and Occupational Therapy

man in front of a desk with woman behind it

Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding the Basics

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement control. It occurs due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine is a chemical that helps transmit signals for smooth and coordinated muscle movements.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

  • Tremors (shaking) in hands, arms, legs, jaw, or face
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Slowed movements (bradykinesia)
  • Balance and coordination difficulties
  • Speech and writing changes
  • Reduced facial expression

Important Facts

  • Approximately 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease.
  • The disease typically affects individuals over 60, but early-onset Parkinson’s can occur in younger people.
  • While the exact cause is unknown, genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute.
  • There is currently no cure, but treatment can help manage symptoms.

How Therapy Can Help:

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapy helps individuals maintain independence in daily activities by:

  • Teaching strategies to enhance fine motor skills
  • Recommending adaptive equipment for dressing, writing and eating
  • Improving hand-eye coordination
  • Simplifying tasks to conserve energy 

Physical Therapy (PT)

Physical therapy focuses on improving movement and balance by:

  • Designing exercise programs to enhance mobility, strength, and flexibility
  • Teaching techniques to reduce fall risk and improve gait
  • Promoting cardiovascular fitness

Speech Therapy (ST)

Speech therapy addresses communication and swallowing challenges by:

  • Improving voice volume and clarity
  • Strengthening muscles involved in speech and swallowing
  • Teaching techniques for safe swallowing
  • Enhancing non-verbal communication skills

A multidisciplinary approach involving occupational, physical, and speech therapy can greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Early intervention and consistent management can help maintain independence and reduce the impact of symptoms.

Celebrate Occupational Therapy Month!

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a healthcare profession focused on helping individuals of all ages engage in meaningful activities, or “occupations,” that enhance their ability to participate fully in daily life. Occupational therapists work with patients to improve their ability to perform tasks at home, school, work, and in the community.

Who Do Occupational Therapists Help?

  • People recovering from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses
  • Individuals with physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities
  • Older adults facing age-related challenges
  • Children with sensory processing or motor skill difficulties
  • People living with chronic conditions like Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, or stroke

How Occupational Therapy Helps

  • Promotes Independence: Helping patients regain skills necessary for daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, cooking, and driving.
  • Adapts Environments: Recommending adaptive equipment and home modifications to improve safety and accessibility.
  • Enhances Well-Being: Teaching stress management, energy conservation, and relaxation techniques.
  • Improves Quality of Life: Focusing on personalized goals that matter most to each individual.

Join the Celebration! Spread the word about the incredible benefits of occupational therapy. Whether you are an OT professional, a patient, or simply someone who appreciates the importance of meaningful activities, let’s recognize the impact of OT during Occupational Therapy Month!


Consider an Exercise Program

man lifting weights

Do you routinely follow an exercise program? — Great! If not, you may want to start. Some of the benefits of regularly exercising include: 

  • Delaying or preventing the onset of disabilities or diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity and osteoporosis. 
  • Reducing pain from arthritis. 
  • Helping with anxiety and depression through better sleep and feelings of well-being 
  • Reducing the risk of falls, the most common cause of nonfatal injuries in adults over age 65. 

Getting Started:

Choose an activity that you’ll enjoy and can do regularly and gives the most benefit. 

Take into consideration your interests, health and physical limitations, as well as the ease of accessing the activity. Kirby Pines offers a wide range of classes and a variety of equipment in the Oasis. Schedule time for your new activities: 30 minutes for 5 days quickly add up for the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. Incorporate four different types of activities into an exercise regimen, as they provide different health benefits: 

Endurance Activities increase the heart rate and breathing. Including walking, jogging or dancing, they help improve the cardiovascular system. Try the NuStep or Bike in the Oasis. 

Strength Exercise such as weight training can help build up muscles and reduce age-related muscle loss. The Oasis is fully equipped to build muscle strength, or check out Kim Roberts’ Strength classes. 

Stretching Exercises help keep the body flexible and able to move easily. Yoga Stretch and Chair Yoga can make a difference. 

Balance Exercises help improve balance, reducing the risk of falls. Water Aerobics and Yoga classes practice balance moves each class. 

As each person has different health issues and medications, checking in with a health care provider before beginning is key to preventing injuries. 

If you have any questions about the classes we offer or using the equipment, check with Kim Roberts, you will see where to find her on the schedule to the right. 

SUPPORT THE ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION 

Friday, April 11th – Arthritis Foundation Bake Sale 

walk to cure arthritis

We will be having a bake sale for the benefit of the Arthritis Foundation from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Lobby on Friday, April 11th. Please deliver your baked goods to the Resident Programs office the day before unless you plan to bring something delicious straight out of the oven the day of. 

Tuesday, April 22nd – Arthritis Foundation Walk 

Join us for the Kirby Pines annual walk for the Arthritis Foundation. We will meet in the Lobby at 10:30 am and will begin the walk around the Kirby Pines grounds at 10:40 am. Drink plenty of water and join in on the fun. 


Spring has Finally Sprung at Kirby Pines

Freshly mowed grass, flowers blooming and trees budding…warmer weather…longer days & BASEBALL!!

Spring brings new, fresh ideas and thoughts. Our fresh idea is the “Kirby Pines Chop House!” We are putting Exquisite Cuisine on the shelf for awhile and trying something fresh.

On April 17th, we will transform our Bistro into the “The Chop House.” For that evening, we will be offering beautiful Lamb Chops or an 8-oz. filet, a beautifully marbled 14-oz. bone-in ribeye, or fresh caught Alaskan salmon cooked over flame with a mango chutney. Market Pricing for this menu.

The Chop House service will be offered from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Reservations are required and limited to a total of 28 reservations with the last available reservation at 6:45 p.m. This evening will also offer featured wines and desserts. Our idea is to cater to each individual table as they are seated.

We are looking forward to bringing a real “steakhouse experience” right here on campus a couple of times monthly!! I cannot wait!!

Bon Appetit!!

Michael J. Brown, Jr.
Executive Director, Kirby Pines


Reflections by Maxie Dunnam

A Crucial Moment in Human Civilization 

Maxie Dunnam in a chapel

Maxie Dunnam is just another old man, turning 90, seeking to make a redemptive difference in a needy world. 

As I write that, it is difficult not to suspect that some people might sometimes be saying it. 

These are tough, trying days. I believe we have a reached a crucial moment in human civilization. The institutions upon which we have become dependent, around which our lives have been ordered—education, business, medical services, the penal system, organized religion, government — have each in some ways been revealed as inadequate, a few of them perhaps beyond renewal and repair. In any case, they have not been equal to their promise.

The moon landing

We are dissatisfied with things as they are. And while dissatisfaction is as old as the human race, I believe we have reached a crucial moment in human civilization. Atomic bombs are not just more powerful weaponry. Electronic computers are not just more complex adding machines. Neil Armstrong was more than a latter-day Columbus setting foot on the moon. 

Mushroom Cloud

At the deepest level of our beings there is a gnawing yearning. The institutions upon which we have become dependent, around which our lives have been ordered – have each in some way been gradually revealed as inadequate. They have not been equal to their promise; they cannot fill the need and longing in us. We are dissatisfied with things as they are, we have reached a crucial moment in human civilization. 

Early computer

Dare I even think it? Maxie Dunnam is not just another old man turning 90, seeking to make a redemptive difference in a needy world. What can I do? What must I do? What will I do? 


Congratulations to Our Champion of the Month: Kimberly Wiley

KIMBERLY WILEY 

LPN – Job’s Way Unit Manager

Describe your family: 2 sons, Tyrome, 30 (accounting/math) and Channing, 22 (welding program). 

Describe yourself in five words: Hardworking, dependable, trustworthy, strong, team player.

What do you do for fun: Spending time with family, cooking with Mom, watching movies. 

Do you have any hobbies: Listening to jazz. 

What is your favorite thing about your job: The residents and have a great managment team.

What is Your favorite food: Stuffed Bell Peppers.

What is your favorite song: Sometimes It Snows In April by Prince.

What is something you are proud of: Both of my sons are polite and respectful young men.

What would you like people to know about you: I am loyal to my loved ones.

Kim Wiley is a team player and does what it takes to offer our residents the best possible care. She gets the job done and believes in getting it done quickly and efficiently. You can tell how much she loves and appreciates her residents in the quality of her care. Congratulations to Kim!

– Rhonda Nelson, Director of Nursing