The New Health + Wellness Experience Playbook
Experience Is Everything®
How to Use this Playbook •
Read for understanding first (not perfection)
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Use your LCS Life+ Team to work through sections together
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Focus on one pillar or experience at a time
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Look for micro-change opportunities
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Come back to this regularly—it’s a working guide, not a one-time read
Quick Start 1. Read the Playbook. Get an understanding of the LCS Life+ experience. 2. Save the Date: October 5-11, 2026 LCS Life+ will officially launch during the National Week of Wellness & Well-Being. Click here to learn more. 3. Build Your LCS Life+ Team and begin planning for launch. Click here to learn more. 4. Build a Shared Foundation with ICAA Wellness Certification. Click here to learn more. 5. Use the executive talk track to align language. Click here to learn more. 6. Join the Upcoming LCS Life+ Webinars. Click here to learn more. 7. Launch during the LCS National Week of Wellness & Well-Being! From here, LCS Life+ grows-One experience, one interaction, one moment at a time.
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The Core Philosophy LCS Life+ Wellness Experience | 4
From a Tasting Event to a Brain Health Movement It begins with a thoughtfully designed MIND Diet Experience. Residents gather for what they expect to be a simple tasting event, sampling dishes like walnut-crusted salmon, berry parfaits, roasted vegetables with extra-virgin olive oil, and white bean soup. As they enjoy each bite, the chef and dietitian explain how small, intentional food choices can support brain health and overall well-being. The conversation quickly shifts from recipes to possibility. “How often should we eat fish?” “What exactly is the MIND Diet?” “Could I really make these changes?” Recognizing residents’ desire to take an active role in living well longer, the chef extends an invitation: “What if we explored this journey together?” From that moment, the LCS Life+ MIND Diet Culinary Workshop Series is born. Residents partner with the chef, dietitian, and wellness team to create experiences that make brain-healthy living practical, enjoyable, and social. Together, they participate in: • •
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A 30-Day Brain Boost Challenge focused on building sustainable habits one step at a time. Fish Fridays and Culinary Swaps featuring brain-healthy recipes and cooking demonstrations. Berries and Nuts Snack Labs where residents create and share nourishing snack ideas. A Beans and Legumes Challenge that introduces flavorful plant-based options. Grocery Store Discovery Tours that build confidence in making informed food choices.
As the weeks pass, the impact extends far beyond nutrition. Residents exchange recipes, walking groups form before grocery outings, and conversations about healthy aging become commonplace. Others become involved, grandchildren join in preparing healthy snacks, staff joined brain health learning experiences, and resident-inspired MIND-friendly options begin appearing on community menus. What started as a tasting event evolves into a culture of curiosity, empowerment, and collective well-being. Residents discover that supporting brain health isn’t about perfection or dramatic change—it’s about making one meaningful choice at a time, together. The LCS Life+ Difference It started as a MIND Diet tasting event. It became a resident-driven exploration of brain health and intentional living. It empowered individuals to make small changes that could have a lasting impact on their well-being. And it created a community of learners, encouragers, and advocates committed to the pursuit of living well longer.
That is LCS Life+ in action.
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What is LCS Life+? At LCS, we believe true wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s as unique as the individual living it. That’s why we created LCS Life+, a personalized wellness lifestyle experience designed to support well-being in the ways that matter most to each resident. Built around four key pillars—Longevity, Nutrition, Connection, and Movement—LCS Life+ brings together meaningful opportunities, thoughtful guidance, and support tailored to everyday life. Whether improving balance, staying active, trying something new, building relationships, or making more informed choices about health, LCS Life+ is designed to meet residents where they are—and guide them toward where they want to be. At the same time, LCS Life+ is about something bigger. It’s about shifting how a community feels. And that happens through small, intentional moments—what we call micro-changes. These are simple shifts in how we show up every day: a conversation that goes a little deeper, a moment of connection that lasts a little longer, an experience designed with a little more purpose. We’re not asking teams to do more—we’re asking them to do things differently.
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident walks into the dining room. They’re greeted by name and with a smile. A team member joins them for a few steps, asking about how their grandson Jonathan’s soccer tournament went. At the table, they sit with friends they met through a recent resident-run mission trip. The menu highlights a brain-healthy option, along with information about how the selection supports optimal cognitive health. Before the meal ends, someone invites them to a forest bathing walking group later that afternoon—followed by a stop at the smoothie bar for conversation. They didn’t attend a program. They experienced LCS Life+.
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LCS Life+ In Action LCS Life+ is ...
LCS Life+ is not ...
A personalized wellness lifestyle experience
A standardized program or calendar
A culture shift
An activity program
Designed around wellspan (a personal sense of feeling well regardless of age or underlying health issues)
Focused only on longevity or extending life
A community wide commitment to living well longer
Limited to scheduled events
Built into everyday moments and interactions
Focused on attendance or volume
Focused on the whole-person – mind, body, spirit
One-size-fits-all
Adaptable and accessible to all, regardless of where they are in their life journey
A checklist to complete
A shared way of thinking and designing resident life experiences
Owned only by Community Life/ Activity Department
Owned by every department and every employee
Not an LCS Signature Experience
Measured by enthusiasm, engagement, and impact More than bingo, birthdays, and bible study A vibrant way of experiencing wellness and wellbeing unique to each individual supported by all departments and the physical environment
Simple Success Measures (How You Know It’s Working) •
Residents linger—conversations continue after the scheduled moment ends.
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The community feels more connected, energized, and intentional.
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Staff naturally engage alongside residents (not just facilitate).
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Stories of meaningful moments are shared across departments.
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Residents try something new and build new relationships.
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Residents report feeling more optimistic about their own wellness and well-being.
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Living Well Longer The vision of LCS Life+ is simple, but transformative: to elevate our residents’ experience focused on the pursuit of living well longer. This means rethinking what successful aging looks like—not just in years lived, but in how those years feel. • •
Movement and balance Emotional well-being and connection
• Cognitive health and clarity • Purpose and engagement
Examples Include •
A resident improves their balance through small, consistent movement—and feels more confident.
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A dining experience helps a resident understand how food supports their energy and brain health— and they begin making small, lasting changes.
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A resident joins a conversation or group and forms a relationship that keeps them coming back.
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Someone tries something new and regains a sense of excitement and possibility.
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A resident says, “I have never felt so alive.”
When we create a culture of wellness and well-being with intention, support meaningful connections, and empower residents in their choices—we establish the building blocks of living well longer.
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Executive Talk Track LCS Life+ is a shift from programs to experiences, services to lifestyle, and extending years lived to living well longer, wellspan. It is built on four pillars: Longevity, Nutrition, Connection, Movement. It is powered by incremental micro-changes—small shifts that shape a new culture of wellness and well-being every day. Elevated experiences across the entire community and continuum of care provide ready-to-use ways to launch and sustain LCS Life+. Success is measured by felt experience: energy, engagement, connection, momentum, and may result in more tangible outcomes including but not limited to improved resident and staff satisfaction, improved resident and prospect experience, reduction in falls and cognitive decline, etc.
The Four Pillars •
Longevity: increasing wellspan through evidence informed programs
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Nutrition: food that fuels mind, body, and spirit
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Connection: connecting with community, environment, self, the world
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Movement: mobility, balance, strength
How LCS Life+ Comes to Life Elevated Experiences (Big Moments): Ready-to-use, meaningful experiences designed to create on-going engagement like: •
Chef tastings & wellness dining
• Balance & movement experiences
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Resident wisdom sharing
• Learning, traveling, and shared experiences
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Personalized LCS Life+ journeys
• Wellness assessments and coaching
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State of the art, evidence informed age tech
Micro-Changes (Everyday Moments): Small shifts that change how things feel: •
Turning interactions into connection.
• Inviting participation, not just attendance.
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Layering intention into what already exists.
• Creating purpose within the ordinary.
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Designing moments, not just completing them.
• Seeing opportunities and choosing to elevate them.
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Linking movement, nutrition, connection and longevity into everyday experiences.
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Building the Experience LCS Life+ Wellness Experience | 10
From a wagging tail and a simple question: “When is the dog coming back?” Residents residing in assisted living eagerly anticipated the monthly pet therapy visits. The comfort, laughter, and companionship the animals brought quickly became a highlight of community life. But as relationships formed with the therapy volunteers, residents began learning more about the needs of local animal shelters and rescue organizations.
students and community artists joined the effort.
The conversations changed.
An elegant evening celebrating the human-animal bond, complete with resident-made treats, silent auctions, live entertainment, heartwarming rescue stories, and appearances by adoptable pets looking for their forever families. What was initially envisioned as a one-time fundraiser quickly became something much bigger.
Residents weren’t just talking about the dogs they had met that day. They were sharing stories of beloved pets from their past, reminiscing about animals that had shaped their lives, and expressing a desire to help animals still waiting for a forever home. One resident asked, “Is there something we could do to support them?” That single question sparked an idea. Residents formed a club dedicated to supporting the local animal shelter. They organized donation drives for food, blankets, and toys. They baked homemade organic dog treats to sell at community events. Those who were able volunteered with dog walking and socialization programs, while others made no-sew pet blankets or assembled welcome kits for newly adopted pets. Some residents even chose to foster rescue animals, bringing renewed purpose and companionship into their daily lives. What began as a small initiative soon captured the hearts of the entire community. Independent living residents offered fundraising expertise. Residents residing in the health center helped prepare simple enrichment toys and treats for shelter animals. Families contributed auction items and sponsorships. Team members volunteered their time. Local businesses stepped forward to support the cause. Residents began to think bigger on how they can make an impact. Residents, staff, family members, and local community volunteers gathered for a series of “Paint for Paws” workshops, transforming photographs of shelter animals into one-of-a-kind portraits. Experienced artists mentored beginners. Individuals living with dementia contributed through collaborative art techniques, adding color, texture, and personal touches to the canvases. Team members painted alongside residents, while local
Each portrait represented more than a piece of art. It told the story of an animal waiting for a second chance. These original works became some of the most anticipated and sought-after auction items at what would become the community’s signature event: The Paws Soirée.
Residents insisted, “Let’s do it again next year.” The event evolved into an annual, highly anticipated community tradition—planned and led by residents themselves. Resident committees coordinated sponsors, selected beneficiaries, recruited volunteers, managed marketing efforts, and oversaw event logistics. As the initiative matured, residents recognized the opportunity to create an even greater impact. With guidance from community leadership and local partners, the organization achieved 501(c)(3) status, governed by a resident-led board of directors. What had once been a simple pet therapy visit had evolved into a sustainable legacy of service, advocacy, and philanthropy. The LCS Life+ Difference It started with a pet therapy visit. It became a resident-led movement to support animals in need. It transformed cherished memories of beloved pets into opportunities for service, connection, and purpose. And it brought an entire community together through compassion, generosity, and the belief that every life—human and animal—deserves to be cared for.
That is LCS Life+ in action.
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LCS Life+ Elevated Experiences LCS Life+ Elevated Experiences are intentional, high-impact experiences developed to help communities implement LCS Life+ quickly and consistently—while still allowing local flexibility. LCS Life+ Elevated Experiences LCS will be introducing multiple experiences that communities can plug-and-play. Here are some examples: •
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Aging Well Webinar Series (formerly Well on Your Way) A nationally hosted webinar series with educational sessions that support health, well-being, and personal growth that is open to residents, prospects, team members, board members, families, vendor partners, etc.
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LCS National Week of Wellness & Well-Being An organization-wide national LCS experience designed to introduce and reinforce LCS Life+ across all communities with each community creating their own unique offerings built on a variety of national LCS Life+ offerings.
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LCS Life+ Wellspan Journal Experience A proprietary branded personalized LCS Life+ component that helps residents identify wellness goals and plan their individual well-being journey. The Wellspan Journal is more than a place to write; it is a companion that helps residents discover what helps them thrive. Through weekly reflection, individuals have the opportunity to celebrate successes, practice gratitude, stay connected to goals, and create meaningful habits that support living well longer.
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The Expert Next Door A unique way to capture the expertise of our residents through sharing their wisdom about something they have mastered in their life. There will be both national and community facing components to this program.
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LCS Independent Living Wellness & Well-being Questionnaires An essential component of the LCS Life+ experience that allows residents to self-identify their wellness and well-being status from their own perspective. This resident self-evaluation allows us to partner with them, turning insights into better living, supporting their LCS Life+ journey. That’s what makes LCS Life+ personal.
ICAA Wellness Certification Wellness coaching competency across every LCS community by ensuring team members complete accredited training and can confidently guide residents to personalized well-being. A minimum of 1 individual at every community should complete this certification.
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Elevated Experiences (cont.) •
LCS Life+ Culinary Institute of America Menu Recommendations and Culinary Experiences Nutrition with intention and uncompromising culinary standards – bringing wellness to the table. Specialized training for our LCS chefs, dining team members and residents through a national partnership with the Culinary Institute of America.
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LCS Life+ Chapters: An LCS Book Club A shared reading experience designed to spark conversation, connection, and lifelong learning.
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LCS Life+ Travel & Adventures: An LCS Travel Club Encouraging residents to continue discovering the world—and themselves—through meaningful travel experiences.
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LCS Life+ Wellness Rx A personalized “prescription” offered by our ICAA certified wellness champions at the community based on their and the resident’s review of the resident’s wellness and well-being questionnaire and LCS Life+ Path Wellspan Journal that turns resident goals and data into actionable LCS Life+ experiences.
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LCS Life+ Together Creates simple, intentional systems that ensure every resident feels seen, supported, and connected, especially during moments when isolation risk is highest.
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LCS Life+ Resources on LCS Connect All LCS Life+ tools, resources, and materials are available in one central location – LCS Connect. By visiting the LCS Life+ area on LCS Connect, teams can easily access:
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A community hosts an Aging Well webinar watch party. But instead of chairs in rows, they set up small tables with snacks and discussion cards. After the webinar, a Navigator asks one question: “What’s one small thing you want to try this week?” People share ideas—sleep routines, walking buddies, trying a new food. Someone says, “I thought this would be boring… but I’m actually excited.” The learning becomes social. And the social becomes momentum.
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• • • •
Playbooks and toolkits Program ideas and examples Training materials and resources Templates and implementation guides
This is your go-to destination to support planning, execution, and ongoing LCS Life+ growth at your community. Important: This is a growing resource. New ideas, tools, and inspiration are continuously being added. Be sure to check back often to explore what’s new and continue building momentum with LCS Life+.
LCS Life+ Culture Micro-Changes LCS Life+ is not created through programs alone. It is built in the everyday moments—the small, intentional interactions that quietly shape how a community feels. What Micro-Changes Look Like •
Walking with a resident instead of past them
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Sitting down and being fully present in conversation or at meals
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Connecting a menu item to well-being, energy, or brain health
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Introducing residents based on shared interests or life experiences
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Closing a program with a short reflection on purpose or meaning
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Adjusting tone, pace, or environment to feel more human and
Guiding Question: “How can this moment feel more personal, more meaningful, and more connected to the resident’s wellness and well-being journey?”
welcoming
Bottom Line LCS Life+ is more than something added to the calendar. It is something built into the day. When small moments are done with intention, they create a community where everyday life feels meaningful, connected, and alive.
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident is on her way to check out the “Zibrio Better Balance Club” and while chatting, the team member shares her own experience with a yoga class that has improved her own balance. They chuckle as they share poses they’ve tried with silly names like “downward dog.” Nothing was scheduled. Nothing was added. But the day feels different. A shared commitment to living well longer. That is LCS Life+ built into a moment.
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Four Pillars: The Backbone of LCS Life+ LCS Life+ is built around four interconnected pillars. These are not separate programs. They are a framework for designing experiences intentionally—and when they overlap, they create meaningful, whole-person experiences.
Longevity
Nutrition
Connection
Movement
Improve wellspan — energy, independence, and engagement.
Food is health, food is life – make healthy choices approachable and enjoyable.
Belonging, purpose, and relationships residents can feel.
Strength, balance, confidence, and independence in daily life.
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LONGEVITY Increasing wellspan through evidence-informed approaches. What It Is LCS Life+ supports residents in understanding their health, making informed choices, and taking an active role in well-being over time through education, personalized strategies, and purposeful experiences.
What Residents May Experience • • • • •
Personalized well-being assessments to identify goals, strengths, and opportunities Education on wearable wellness technology (watches, rings, health-tracking tools) Group learning experiences with guided discussion and reflection Medication reviews to support personalization and reduce polypharmacy when appropriate Structured cognitive engagement experiences (e.g., Total Brain Health)
Why It Matters • •
Residents feel more informed, confident, and proactive about their health Small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful improvements over time
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Supports independence, clarity, and daily function—starting now
Resident-level and aggregated data will provide personalized wellness guidance, inform continuous improvement, and generate insights that advance healthy aging while supporting presentations, publications, and other opportunities to share the positive impact of senior living on living well longer.
NUTRITION Food is health. Food is life. What It Is LCS Life+ connects everyday dining to energy, cognition, and long-term wellness by making healthy choices approachable, enjoyable, and naturally integrated into daily life while maintaining exemplary culinary standards.
What Residents May Experience • • • • • •
Interactive cooking demonstrations and small-group learning sessions Well-being taste tests that introduce plant-forward options with simple education Themed dining experiences featuring brain-healthy ingredients LCS Life+ menu highlights that explain the wellness purpose behind featured selections Hands-on experiences like “Build Your Own LCS Life+ Smoothie” Creating LCS Life+ spice blends to reduce sodium intake and optimize flavor with healthy seasonings
Why It Matters • •
Transforms dining from routine into a meaningful wellness experience Helps residents connect food choices to how they feel each day
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Supports energy, connection, cognitive wellness, and living well, longer
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CONNECTION Connection to community, environment, self, the world. What It Is LCS Life+ intentionally designs experiences that help residents feel seen, valued, and involved—creating engagement that lasts beyond attendance.
What Residents May Experience •
Honoring residents’ life experiences and wisdom sharing through experiences (Expert Next Door)
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Shared experiences across communities (“big talk” discussion groups, book clubs, travel,)
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Opportunities for volunteering, mentorship, and intergenerational engagement
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Guided well-being journeys that help residents identify goals and personal purpose supported by a wellness coach who has been certified by ICAA in basic wellness concepts.
Why It Matters •
Strong relationships support resilience, happiness, and long-term health and well-being
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Residents feel known, valued, and connected—changing the entire experience
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Connection becomes something residents genuinely feel every day adding purpose to their life and making them feel like they matter.
MOVEMENT Movement. Balance. Strength. Independence. What It Is LCS Life+ integrates movement into everyday life—helping residents continue doing what matters most through innovative programs, personalized guidance, and participation.
What Residents May Experience •
Balance technology and programs (e.g., Zibrio Better Balance Club)
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Community movement initiatives (e.g., Million-Mile Club)
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Functional assessments that provide personalized insights
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Movement options ranging from classes to walking groups and daily life movement
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Innovative movement programs (Tai Chi Ballet, Silent Disco, Synchronized Swim Club, etc.)
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Improvements in exercise space, programs, and equipment
Why It Matters •
Preserves independence and confidence
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Builds strength gradually and celebrates visible progress
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Supports safety, mobility, and living well longer
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Your Personalized Journey Plan Personalized Well-Being Strategy Because well-being is personal, LCS Life+ is not built around a one-size-fits-all model. The LCS Life+ Wellspan Journal Experience brings together the four pillars into an integrated approach designed around each resident. Led by the wellness team, this approach represents a highly personalized wellness and well-being experience for our residents. Wellness designed for you, by you, and supported by LCS.
LCS Life+ Wellness Rx (A Personalized Roadmap) LCS Life+ Wellness Rx is not a prescription in the traditional sense. It is a personalized roadmap designed to help residents live with greater energy, purpose, confidence, and connection—and it evolves over time as goals and needs change.
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident shares a simple goal: “I’ve always wanted to run a half marathon.” A team member leans in— “Let’s figure out how to get you there.” The Fitness and Community Life teams help him build a plan, starting small. Walks turn into jogs. Staff check in. Residents cheer him on. He’s not doing it alone—the whole community is part of it. Weeks later, he completes his race. When he returns, the community celebrates—signs, smiles, and a lot of pride. What started as one goal becomes something bigger. Others begin asking, “What could I do?” That is LCS Life+.
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LCS Life+ for ALL LCS Life+ for All (Across Every Level of Living) LCS Life+ is designed for all residents, regardless of where they live or their level of care. The experience stays consistent; the delivery is what adapts. In higher levels of care, LCS Life+ often has the greatest impact through consistent micro-moments— slowing down, engaging, and turning routine care into connection.
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident in the Health Center is having a tough moment and struggling to settle in for the night. A team member notices and makes a small shift—they slow the pace and focus on comfort, not just the routine. A device is activated by the team member that provides specially arranged musical selections producing “pink noise” which has been shown to reduce agitation and promote sleep. The resident begins to relax. Breathing slows. The moment softens. No big program. No extra steps. Just a LCS Life+ micro-moment— recognizing a need and using a simple, innovative tool to create comfort and calm.
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LCS Life+ Elevated Experiences can be scaled while keeping the core experience the same. Example: The Expert Next Door (Wisdom Sharing) • Independent Living: Resident-led wisdom sharing and peer sharing • Assisted Living: Small-group wisdom sharing with guided prompts • Memory Care: Photo- and sensory-based wisdom sharing cues • Health Center: Small group or one-on-one wisdom sharing, often with family support Example: Aging Well Webinars (formerly known as Well on Your Way) • Independent Living: Group viewing followed by group discussion facilitated by a resident leader or team member • Assisted Living: Shortened sessions with facilitated conversation • Memory Care: Key ideas translated into visual or sensory cues • Health Center: One core concept reinforced through brief, meaningful interactions
Employee Involvement with LCS Life+ LCS Life+ is not only for residents. It becomes real when employees don’t just support it—they participate in it, experience it, and help shape it. What LCS Life+ Means for Employees •
More connected to residents and purpose
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More engaged in daily work
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More empowered to share ideas
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Part of something meaningful—not just task-focused
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Apply key wellness concepts to their personal life
How Employees Participate • Join LCS Life+ experiences when possible • Are aware of and help promote LCS Life+ concepts and events • Describe featured LCS Life+ dining/menu options • Encourage physical movement/mobility as a regular part of the residents’ routine • Create engaging moments that promote brain health • Incorporate nature into the daily experience of the residents • Join a fitness class after work to improve their own balance
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident stops by the front desk for a casual conversation with the administrative assistant. The resident mentions wanting to stay active, especially after meals. The administrative assistant smiles— “I try to take a walk after lunch most days. It helps me reset for the afternoon.” There’s a pause. Then a simple idea: “Would you want to join me sometime?” The following week, they meet after lunch and take a short walk together. Conversation flows easily. They discover shared interests—favorite books, travel stories, small daily routines. What started as a simple invitation becomes a new habit—where movement and connection naturally come together. That is LCS Life+.
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Your LCS Life+ Team LCS Life+ Wellness Experience | 22
It started with a simple realization: some of the world’s greatest experts were already living in the community. At coffee gatherings and dinner conversations, residents shared stories from extraordinary lives —years spent teaching in classrooms, caring for patients, designing bridges, leading businesses, writing books, serving in the military, conducting research, and mentoring future generations. Someone asked: “What if we created a way for residents to share what they know?” That question gave rise to Expert Next Door—a resident-led speaker series inspired by the spirit of a TED Talk. Residents were invited to step onto the stage to share their passions, experiences, lessons learned, and areas of expertise. The response was overwhelming. A retired nurse spoke about the evolution of healthcare and the importance of compassionate aging. A former engineer shared stories of innovation and problem-solving. A lifelong gardener taught others about sustainable growing practices. What began as an internal enrichment program quickly evolved into something much larger. A faculty member from a local community college attended a presentation and recognized an untapped educational resource. Soon, partnerships were formed. Residents became Visiting Experts for a Day, bringing real-world wisdom into college classrooms. A retired nurse shared her experiences with nursing students enrolled in gerontology courses, helping them understand aging through the eyes of those who had lived it. A former engineer and MIT graduate inspired engineering students to think beyond formulas and consider the human impact of their work. A published author became a guest lecturer for creative writing students, offering insights into creativity and finding one’s authentic voice. Veterans shared lessons in service, teamwork, and sacrifice. Artists demonstrated that creativity has no expiration date.
Students came expecting a lecture. They left having formed meaningful connections with people whose lived experiences transformed abstract concepts into powerful life lessons. As interest grew, the community established an Expert Next Door Speakers Bureau—a residentled initiative that matched residents with speaking opportunities throughout the broader community. Residents began presenting at: • • • • • •
Local schools and universities Professional conferences Civic organizations and service clubs Healthcare education programs Libraries and lifelong learning institutes Community leadership events
The program reshaped perceptions of aging. Residents were no longer viewed solely as recipients of services. They were recognized as educators, innovators, mentors, and thought leaders. The impact reached far beyond the audiences they addressed. Residents rediscovered purpose and confidence. Students gained wisdom that could never be found in a textbook. Intergenerational relationships flourished. The community became known not just as a place to live, but as a place where knowledge, experience, and human potential continued to thrive. The LCS Life+ Difference It started with residents sharing their wisdom and stories with neighbors. It became Expert Next Door—a platform that celebrated the talents, passions, and wisdom of older adults. It evolved into partnerships with colleges and universities, creating opportunities for residents to educate, mentor, and inspire future generations. And it ultimately grew into a resident-led Speakers Bureau, where community members became sought-after voices throughout the region.
That is LCS Life+ in action.
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Your Community-Based LCS Life+ Team Identify a group of champions who will help bring LCS Life+ to life. Choose individuals who are collaborative, open to new ideas, and care deeply about the resident experience. Include voices from across departments and levels of care—and consider resident participation. Suggested Representation •
Executive Director / Administrator
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Health & Wellness Navigators
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Community Life / Life Enrichment
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Fitness / Wellness
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Food & Beverage
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Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Health Center representation
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Front-line staff champions
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Resident representatives (recommended)
Note: The expectation is that at least one member of your LCS Life+ Team will complete the ICAA Wellness Certification.
Recommended LCS Life+ Team Meeting Agenda 1. Choose a clear focus (one pillar, one experience, or one operational area). 2. Look for micro-changes that make everyday life more meaningful. 3. Improve what already exists – how can you make an event, amenity, or service more “LCS Life+”? 4. Leave with 1–3 clear actions: owner, timing, and what success will look like.
ICAA Wellness Certification We’re excited to share a new (and free!) wellness opportunity through the Health & Wellness HLI, in partnership with the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA). The ICAA Foundation for Wellness Certificate Course is open to all LCS communities and builds the essentials for a strong wellness culture, helping teams better engage residents and support whole person well being. Our goal is for every community to have at least one team member complete the course. Please note, up to five team members can take the course for free; what a great way to build a certified wellness team!
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ICAA Wellness Certification (cont.) FAQs What is ICAA’s Foundation for Wellness Certificate requirement? ICAA’s Foundation for Wellness certificate is earned by demonstrating fundamental knowledge of wellness, including key information specific to the seven dimensions of wellness. This certificate is earned by successfully passing the quizzes with an average of 80% or higher.
What will I learn by taking this course? You will learn the importance of understanding wellness and developing a wellness vision, essential researchbased content on the seven dimensions of wellness, essential wellness terminology, and wellness information based on science and best practices. Students will also learn how to develop a holistic wellness program and apply strategies to improve customers’ quality of life..
How many people can take the course for free? Each community may have up to five employees complete the course at no cost. If one of those employees leaves the position, the course will be made available to the new hire.
What is the time commitment, deadlines, and expectations? Although each module takes an average of 3-5 hours to complete, students have up to 20 weeks to complete the course. Learners with previous experience in Wellness will find the modules quick to complete, while those who are new to the concept will benefit from additional time to grasp the information. Students should be able to
ICAA Education access instructions STEP 1: Create account • Create your ICAA Education account by completing the online form. • Include your ICAA membership number (LCS MEMBERSHIP NUMBER 7779) to access the FREE course. STEP 2: Verify account & enroll • ICAA Education will immediately send you an email to verify your account; click on the embedded link, which is valid for 24 hours. • Choose your course and select Enroll Now. Note that the ICAA Foundation for Wellness Certificate Course is FREE for ICAA members. • For the Foundation for Wellness Course, click the acknowledgment box and submit. Your course registration will show as pending approval. STEP 3: Begin course • You will receive an ICAA Education email upon course registration approval. • Log into your ICAA Education account and open the course. • Complete each module to earn your certificate. Congratulations on your commitment to professional development!
complete the course within this time, however, ICAA is willing to meet the needs of the individual student.
There are two free Foundation for Wellness courses from which to choose. Which one should I select?
Questions? Contact: Doug Oliver; Beth Grigg; Brian Hess
Either one is fine, but the 2026 version gives you the most up-to-date learning experience. LCS Life+ Wellness Experience | 25
LCS Life+ Partners: Expand the Reach LCS Life+ is not limited to internal teams or in-house programming. It grows stronger through meaningful partnerships with organizations that share a passion for improving resident life: • • • • • • • •
Therapy providers Culinary experts Wellness Specialist Pharmacists Traditional and alternative healthcare providers Intergenerational experiences Cultural and arts foundations Local schools and community groups
How to Build and Activate Partnerships Before bringing in a partner, ensure alignment: • Do they support purposeful living? • Do they enhance resident well-being—not just deliver a service? • Do they value connection, engagement, and experience? • Do they have a commitment to evidence-informed approaches that have been proven safe and effective in older adults Begin with simple, high-impact experiences such as a wellness workshop, chef-led tasting, therapy Q&A, cultural performance, or a pilot program in one area of the community. Partnerships should feel human, not transactional. Build connection by introducing partners to residents, encouraging conversation instead of presentation, inviting them to share their personal story or “why,” and including staff so relationships extend beyond a single event. Strong partnerships don’t stand alone—they become part of the experience. Connect them to LCS Life+ pillars like movement, nutrition, connection, and longevity. Reinforce them across different touchpoints so they feel like part of a continuous journey, not one-time events.
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LCS Life+ Marketing & Sales LCS Life+ should be experienced—not explained. Bring LCS Life+ Into the Whole Journey • Invite prospects and families into real participation (not staged tours). • Seat prospects with residents when appropriate and encourage organic conversation. • Show LCS Life+ in everyday moments—dining, hallway interactions, and real community life. • Use experience language: “See what living well longer looks like.” • Utilize the LCS Life+ toolkits that will be made available to you. What Success Looks Like • Prospects participate in real community life • Conversations feel natural and unscripted • Residents share stories with confidence and pride • Alignment forms between what is promised and what is experienced
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A prospect and their family visit during an elevated dining experience—small plates, tasting stations, residents actually participating. No one is “performing” a tour. A resident offers, “Sit with us.” A team member casually explains one menu item as a brain-healthy option— without being salesy. Later, the prospect sees a group heading to a “Big Talk” discussion group and gets invited along. On the way out, the prospect says quietly, “I thought I’d be judging the building… but I’m judging how it feels.” And it feels connected. It feels alive.
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Prepare for Launch LCS Life+ Wellness Experience | 28
Webinars: Prepare for Launch Join our community-facing webinars! LCS Life+ Webinar Schedule: Thursdays at 3 pm EST / 2 pm CST / 12 pm PST
Date
Webinar
Presenter
May 28
Welcome to LCS Life+
Sharon Roth Maguire
June 11
LCS Life+ Community Specific Plans
Doug Oliver and Anne Luchman
for Life+ Kick-Off Week October 5-11 June 25
LCS Life+ Pillar Deep Dive – Longevity
Mindi TenNapel
July 9
LCS Life+ Pillar Deep Dive – Nutrition
John Pietrangelo
July 23
LCS Life+ Pillar Deep Dive – Movement
Ashlie Burnett
August 6
LCS Life+ Pillar Deep Dive – Connection
Beth Grigg and Brian Hess
August 20
LCS Life+ Sales & Marketing
Rick Westermann and Amanda Schmitt
Considerations September 3
LCS Life+ Final Readiness Checklist
Michele Kramer and Anne Luchman
and Launch Preparation Check-in September 17 LCS Life+ Submit Your Final Readiness
Michele Kramer and Anne Luchman
Plan to LCS & Check-in View recordings of Webinars here on Connect.
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LCS National Week of Wellness & Well-Being October 5–11, 2026 It is the moment your community starts to feel different. For the first time, LCS Life+ is not just explained—it is experienced.
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident reflects on the recent LCS National Week of Wellness & Well-Being. At first, they attended a few experiences— curious, but unsure what to expect. A cooking demonstration. A walking group. A conversation about sleep and energy. Nothing overwhelming—just a series of small moments. By the end of the week, something feels different. They’ve tried new things. Met new people. Started paying attention to how they feel—day to day. What started as a themed week becomes motivation, awareness, and momentum that continues beyond it.
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Residents notice something has shifted. Employees are engaged, not just executing. Prospects and families are seeing real life, not presentations. The community feels more connected, energized, and intentional. How to Prepare (Keep It Simple) • Clarify LCS Life+ Team roles for the week • Choose meaningful experiences to highlight • Use toolkits for turn-key experiences • Prepare staff to describe LCS Life+ in simple, resident-centered language • Invite residents, families, and prospects into participation • Make LCS Life+ visible through signage, conversations, and calendars • Identify micro-changes staff can begin immediately
Your First 30 Days Post-Launch Keep it simple. Strong starts come from alignment—not complexity. Week 1: Align Build a LCS Life+ Resident Focus group to open up conversation around the initiative. Choose one pillar to spotlight first (based on your residents’ needs and interests). Week 2: Start Micro-Changes Pick 3 micro-changes your team will practice daily. Make micro-changes visible: name them, model them, celebrate them. Weeks 3–4: Run One Elevated Experience Select one elevated experience (or elevate what you already do). Design for participation (not presentation). Capture one story or photo that shows LCS Life+ in action. At 30 Days: Reflect + Repeat Use the simple success measures to assess what changed. Keep what worked, adjust what didn’t, and choose your next focus.
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Measuring Success LCS Life+ is not measured by how many programs are offered or how full a calendar looks. It is measured by how the experience feels—for residents, employees, and families. What Success Looks Like in Everyday Life You’ll begin to notice: • Residents staying longer after events—not wanting the experience to end • Conversations continuing naturally beyond scheduled activities • Residents trying something new or stepping outside of their routine • Staff engaging with residents—not just overseeing or facilitating • Cross-department involvement increasing in experiences and interactions • Residents forming new relationships and deepening existing ones • Everyday moments feeling more personal, energized, and connected What It Feels Like • The community has noticeable energy • Interactions feel more natural, human, and meaningful • Experiences feel purposeful—not routine • Residents feel seen, known, and valued • Staff feel more connected to residents and to their work • The community is offering vibrant and unique wellness/well-being experiences. Residents are curious and seeking new experiences, often bringing ideas to you. When residents feel it, staff live it, and communities reflect it—that’s when you know LCS Life+ is working.
LCS LIFE+ IN ACTION A resident scans the menu and hesitates. A dining team member points to one item and says, “This one’s a great ‘feel-good’ choice—people say it helps them feel steadier and more energized.” The resident smiles. “I’ll try it.” No lecture. No pressure. Just a small shift that makes food feel purposeful.
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Keep Momentum Going Keep the Momentum Going • • •
Do what matters. Repeat what works. Tell the stories – this is what keeps energy and purpose alive. Keep a simple rhythm: do, share, reflect, adjust
When Energy Slows Down It will happen—and it’s okay. When it does: • Simplify • Refocus on one meaningful area • Return to small, intentional moments Momentum isn’t lost by doing less—it’s lost by losing focus.
The Bottom Line LCS Life+ is not something you finish. It’s something you build—every day, in every moment. When teams stay focused and consistent, LCS Life+ stops feeling like an initiative…and becomes the way the community lives.
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Resources LCS Life+ Wellness Experience | 34
Finding Confidence A movement class wraps up as part of the Better Balance Club experience. Instead of ending with a quick “Thanks for coming,” the instructor gathers the group around a small table with fruit-infused water—a simple, inviting way to slow the moment down. Residents linger. They pour a drink. The conversation continues. The instructor asks one question: “What’s one thing you want to feel more confident doing before we meet again?” One resident says, “Getting in and out of the car without worrying.” Another adds, “Walking outside without feeling nervous.” Heads nod. A few residents share similar goals. The instructor encourages them to write it down—something small, personal, and real. They leave not just after a class—but with something to work toward. What started as movement becomes purpose. What started as a workout becomes momentum. That is LCS Life+: turning a class into something residents carry with them— and come back ready to build on. That is LCS Life+ in action.
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Recommended Resources LCS Life+ is grounded in research, real-world application, and continuous learning. The following resources reflect the evidence, insights, and thought leadership that support the four LCS Life+ pillars: Longevity, Nutrition, Connection, and Movement. Research, Insights & Advisory Bodies These internal and industry-informed groups help shape the direction of LCS Life+: • • • • •
LCS Operations Council Clinical Leadership Council Health Services Division Health & Wellness Advisory Board LCS Resident Advisory Council
These groups provide ongoing insight into resident preferences, emerging trends, and best practices that inform LCS Life+ experiences. Core Thought Leadership & Books These widely recognized books and authors provide foundational thinking aligned with LCS Life+: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity – Peter Attia The Longevity Economy – Joseph Coughlin Super Agers – Eric Topol The Age of Scientific Wellness – Leroy Hood Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life – Héctor García & Francesc Miralles The Gift of Years – Joan Chittister Joyspan – Richard Leider Being Mortal – Atul Gawande Healthy Aging – Andrew Weil The Blue Zones – Dan Buettner The MIND Diet – Maggie Moon Eat Your Ice Cream – Ezekiel Emanuel (longevity + lifestyle mindset)
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Recommended Resources (cont.) Trusted, Science-Based Resources by Pillar These organizations and platforms provide credible, research-backed information aligned with LCS Life+. •
ICAA (International Council on Active Aging) A global organization dedicated to advancing wellness, active aging, and quality of life for older adults
•
National Institute on Aging (NIA) Evidence-based research on aging, brain health, and independence
•
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Research on lifestyle, chronic disease prevention, and longevity
•
Blue Zones Research and applied insights on populations living longer, healthier lives
•
Harvard Nutrition Source Science-backed guidance on healthy eating and dietary patterns
•
Cleveland Clinic – Nutrition & Lifestyle Clinical insights on food, inflammation, brain health, and energy
•
Oldways (Mediterranean & MIND Diet) Research-based dietary patterns tied to cognitive and overall health
•
Harvard Study of Adult Development One of the longest-running studies showing relationships are the strongest predictor of health and happiness
•
AARP Research Center Insights on social connection, isolation, aging trends, and purpose
•
Stanford Center on Longevity Research on purpose, longevity, and social engagement
•
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Evidence-based guidelines on exercise for older adults
•
National Council on Aging (NCOA) Falls prevention, balance programs, and functional health
•
Go4Life (National Institute on Aging Program) Practical movement and exercise guidance tailored to older adults
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FAQs What is LCS Life+ and what does it mean for residents? LCS Life+ is a new way of approaching wellness for the residents we serve. At LCS, we believe wellness should be a holistic, person-centered, evidence-informed approach to health and well-being, focused on mind, body, and spirit, and accessible to all. LCS Life+ is more than an “activities” program and relies on all departments to make it come alive at your community. What makes LCS Life+ different from our current offering? Current and future residents expect more from their wellness journey. By focusing on these four pillars – Longevity, Nutrition, Connection, and Movement – LCS Life+ is the intersection of data and technology paired with wellness and well-being to improve resident well-span. If I have questions or ideas, who should I work with? The LCS Life+ committee is led by Sharon Roth Maguire, SVP, Chief Health & Wellness / Resident Experience Officer, and Kyle Exline, SVP/Director of Operations Management – Life Plan Investments, along with a cross-functional core team listed below. Please reach out to any of these individuals for additional details.
John Anderson, Director of Healthcare Technologies
Jordan Morrow, Executive Director, Greenwood Village South
Jon Back, Sr. Regional Director of Clinical Services
Doug Oliver, Sr. Director of Community Experience
Ashlie Burnett, Director of Community Life Services, The Heritage at Brentwood
John Pietrangelo, VP, Food & Beverage
Jaclyn Gardner, VP, Director of Operations Management - Rental Beth Grigg, Sr. Director of Resident Services, Janus Portfolio Brian Hess, Executive Director, South Port Square Michele Kramer, Director of Health & Wellness Programming Anne Luchman, Community Experience Manager
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Jim Pusateri, SVP, Chief Sales Officer Amanda Schmitt, Sr. Director, Corporate Marketing and Community Strategic Planning Christy Skinner, Executive Director, The Arlington of Naples Jill Sorenson, SVP, Director of Operations Management/Operations Leadership Mindi TenNapel, Director of Market Research Rick Westermann, SVP, Chief Marketing Officer
FAQs (cont.) What can I do between now and October to help my community prepare for the LCS Life+ launch? Dream, collaborate, and begin planning ways to elevate or add to your community’s current wellness offering as we collectively plan for our official LCS Life+ launch during the LCS National Week of Wellness & Wellbeing, October 5-11. Plan to attend the scheduled LCS Life+ webinars and calls which will be held every other week in preparation of our launch in October. When will we receive more information? A series of calls have been scheduled with community teams through mid-September to share more information, answer questions, and discuss next steps. LCS Life+ webinar invitations can be found on the LCS Connect Company Impact Calendar. What is expected of me/my community at launch? LCS Life+ launch will look different for every community based on your unique residents, programming, and amenities. We ask that you spend time with your LCS Life+ team over the next few weeks considering how you can implement each of the four pillars during launch week with unique experiences, special guests, and brand memorabilia.
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As the sun dips below the horizon and the community begins to quiet, a small group of assisted living residents gathers on the patio. Soft lantern light flickers, and the evening air carries just enough coolness to signal the day is gently coming to a close. Above them, the sky deepens into shades of indigo, and the first stars begin to appear. Chairs are arranged in a loose circle, blankets draped over a few laps. A team member welcomes everyone—not with energy, but with intention. The pace slows. “Tonight is about letting the day settle,” they share simply. The group begins with a guided, moonlit meditation. Eyes close or soften. Breathing deepens. Residents are invited to release the small tensions of the day—appointments, aches, moments of frustration—and gently bring to mind something that felt good, meaningful, or even just peaceful. A laugh shared at lunch. A quiet phone call with family. The warmth of the sun earlier that afternoon. No pressure—just noticing. After a few minutes, the stillness lingers. No one rushes to speak. Then, the team member quietly introduces the next moment. A tray is brought forward—simple, intentional. Warm mugs are passed around, each filled with a specially crafted LCS Life+ herbal tea blend: chamomile for calm, lavender for relaxation, and a hint of lemon balm to ease the transition into rest. Residents cradle the cups in their hands, feeling the warmth. The invitation is gentle: take a few sips and reflect on one thing you’d like to carry with you into tomorrow… and one thing you’re ready to let go of tonight. Some residents share softly. Others simply sit, looking out at the moonlight, grounded in the moment. There is no agenda. No rush. Just presence. As the gathering comes to a close, voices remain low, movements unhurried. Residents leave not with stimulation—but with a sense of calm completion. The kind that helps the body and mind recognize it’s time to rest. That night, the transition to sleep feels a little easier. A little deeper. A little more intentional.
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