Life Enrichment at The Whitcomb

At The Whitcomb, life is more than meals and medication—it’s purpose, connection, and joy. Our Activities & Enrichment program is designed to keep residents engaged socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually, no matter their level of care.

We offer a full calendar of programs 7 days a week, with options tailored for Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.

What We Focus On

Social Connection

  • Coffee hours and socials

  • Holiday celebrations and themed parties

  • Resident-led clubs and interest groups

Lifelong Learning

  • Educational talks and community presenters

  • Brain-health and memory-strengthening activities

  • Current events discussions, book chats, and documentaries

Physical Wellness

  • Chair exercise and balance classes

  • Stretching, walking groups, and gentle movement

  • Fall-prevention and strength-building programs

Creative Expression

  • Art, crafts, and hands-on projects

  • Music appreciation and live performances

  • Writing, storytelling, and reminiscence groups

Spiritual & Emotional Support

  • Devotions and faith-based services (multi-denominational)

  • Grief support and coping discussions

  • Quiet reflection spaces and one-on-one visits

Signature Whitcomb Programs

Lake & Bluff Outings

  • Small-group trips to downtown St. Joseph, local events, and the waterfront.

Music & Memory

  • Music-based programs that support mood, recall, and comfort, especially for residents with dementia.

Intergenerational Visits

  • Partnerships with local schools, churches, and community groups.

Special Event Days

  • Veterans Day tributes, “Light Up the Bluff,” summer picnics, and seasonal celebrations for residents and families.

Memory Care Activities & Enrichment

For residents living with dementia, our Memory Care programming is structured, predictable, and calming—while still being engaging.

  • Smaller, quieter groups with staff support

  • Sensory-based activities (music, touch, aroma, and visuals)

  • Validation and reminiscence-focused sessions

  • Purposeful tasks

  • Short, success-oriented activities to reduce frustration and build confidence

Programs are scheduled around times of day when residents are most alert and comfortable, helping reduce anxiety and “sundowning” behaviors.

Family Involvement

Families are encouraged to join programs, attend special events, and share ideas. Our Life Enrichment team works directly with residents and families to learn each person’s interests, hobbies, and history so we can personalize the calendar and one-on-one offerings.

Stay Connected

  • Monthly printed activity calendars are available at the front desk.

  • Copies can be emailed to family and care partners on request.

  • Staff can help residents mark favorite activities and set reminders.

The Whitcomb Lifestyle, Activities, & Enrichment- Frequently Asked Questions

  • We run a full calendar, seven days a week—fitness, social events, live entertainment, educational talks, creative arts, faith-based programs, outings, and memory-supportive engagement. Residents can participate as much or as little as they choose.

  • A printed and digital monthly calendar is available at the front desk and can be emailed to families. The Director update it monthly to reflect resident preferences, seasonality, and special events.

  • Each level of care receives tailored programming.

    • Independent Living: More independent, social, and community-based experiences.

    • Assisted Living: Structured, staff-supported programs that balance engagement and safety.

    • Memory Care: Smaller groups, sensory stimulation, predictable routines, and dementia-informed activities.

  • Participation is resident-driven. Our Life Enrichment team encourages engagement but never forces involvement.

  • For residents who prefer quieter, individualized engagement, staff provide one-on-one visits, reading, conversation, puzzles, music, and personal leisure time.

  • Families are welcome at programs and all major events. We also host family-inclusive celebrations—holiday dinners, Veterans Day tributes, “Light Up the Bluff,” Thanksgiving Dinner, and more.

  • We provide chair exercise, stretching, balance training, walking groups, fall-prevention sessions, and cognitive-based wellness activities like brain games and memory prompts.

  • We offer multi-denominational devotions, prayer groups, pastoral visits, and holiday observances.

  • Yes—seasonally and as weather permits. Outings include Lake Michigan bluff walks, downtown St. Joseph visits, library trips, casino trips, concerts, community events, and group dining.

  • Residents can participate in painting, seasonal crafts, DIY projects, music programs, floral arranging, writing groups, and hands-on creative workshops.

  • Memory Care engagements are shorter, structured, and sensory-rich. Staff focus on success-oriented tasks, soothing routines, music therapy, gentle movement, reminiscence, and personalized one-on-one support.

  • We regularly host musicians, choirs, guest speakers, performers, and community partners who bring high-energy engagement to the building every Friday at 2 PM during Social Hour events.

  • Our onboarding process includes a lifestyle and life-history assessment. This helps the Life Enrichment team build programs around residents’ interests—hobbies, careers, music, social habits, and comfort levels.

  • Our team still checks in daily, offers alternatives, and ensures meaningful engagement through individualized visits or quieter activities.

  • Calendars are posted on each floor, at the front desk, and shared verbally by staff. Daily check-ins and reminders ensure residents know what’s happening.

  • Residents regularly suggest ideas during groups and one-on-one conversations. We implement feasible requests and adjust the calendar to match evolving preferences.

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