Kate Woods worked as an activities assistant in a nursing center while she was in college, enjoying the experience and the impact she made on residents. When her grandmother was placed in a care center, Kate visited her regularly and came to understand how Alzheimer’s disease affected not only the individual, but family members as well.
Upon earning her degree in Recreation Therapy and becoming a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Kate held several positions in a hospital setting. But her love for working with aging adults drew her back to long term care. “I love building relationships with residents and their families,” said Kate. “It’s so special to bring them exciting and therapeutic events and activities to help brighten their day and live a more purposeful life.”
As Recreation Director of The Luxe at Jupiter, Kate has taken education even further, recently becoming a Certified Dementia Practitioner. This has strengthened her understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and will help her teach others how to enhance the care provided to these individuals. Always with a positive attitude, Kate works hard to ensure residents are engaging in activities in the most fulfilling way they can.
When considering a career in long term care, Kate wants others to know that recreation is more than games, arts and crafts with residents. “It helps give them purpose and something to look forward to, engages them in past interests and skills, and helps them connect with others in a meaningful way,” she said.
