We would like to highlight a Continuing Care Retirement Community that places the health and well being of its residents above everything else, Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community in West Columbia, South Carolina is a stellar example of a community that is committed to wellness, and one that employs the Vital Life principles. This community hosts a top notch wellness program, complete with a new Wellness Center (Feb 07) and a dedicated staff. Danny Sanford, Executive Director of Still Hopes and Denise J. Heimlich M.S., Wellness Director, have committed much of their time toward the development of Vital Life in the early stages. Through experts like Denise and her dedication, time, and talent, we have been able to learn the success stories of wellness programs that are currently being employed in the Senior Living Industry. The Still Hopes Wellness Program strives to help all residents achieve their full potential in mind, body, and spirit. This is achieved through physical and mental exercise, healthy lifestyle practices, and education; thereby reducing frailty, chronic disease, emotional stress and promoting self-reliance, humor and wellness.

Perhaps one of the most enjoyable outings that promoted physical fitness was the Still Hopes´s Cross Country Walking Conquest. Denise Heimlich elaborates, The 8-week Cross Country Conquest was a rousing success and lots of fun! Seventy-four people crossed the starting line and worked their way west. Sixteen motivated exercisers (out of 74 participants) made it all the way to San Diego. These people walked more than 235,700 steps or 2357 minutes.

An additional 21 people hiked at least to the half-way point at Abilene, Texas. Kudos to all who participated, no matter how far you walked! I am so proud of those who accepted the challenge to positively affect health and fitness. Some initially thought that they would do so poorly that it wasn´t worth the effort. I am happy to say that most all of these people went much farther than they believed possible. Each person who added walking or using the LifeTrail Stations to his/her activity routine is a winner in my book! You are taking steps to keep strong, agile, healthy, and independent. Good for you!

I had reports that physicians were gleeful when they were told about the contest. I heard that some lab reports came back showing marked improvement during this walking program. Many people spoke to me about the enjoyment of walking and the meditative effect. Some mentioned being less stiff in the joints and having more energy. Residents are already referring to this contest as "The First Annual Cross Country Conquest." Our staff has been asking about having a cross country walk of their own.

The staff at Still Hopes understands that without socially directed initiatives, no wellness program is complete. The 8 components of the Vital Life wellness spectrum are engaged through social opportunities for interaction among residents. For maximum resident wellness and satisfaction, this community maintains an active social activities calendar for all of its constituents. There are many residents who have talented hobbies, and at Still Hopes they are able to put their skills to good use! Huge resident crowds are drawn for the resident led social events that are put together by Activities Director Sherry French and the Still Hopes Activities Committee. We were able to attend one such event, when resident Georgia Hart, a lifelong bird enthusiast, gave a talk to a captivated audience outdoors on a beautiful summer night by the Bistro. The seated guests were given popcorn and cokes, while they sat amidst the swooping trees on the warm southern night. Mrs. Hart had visual displays for references, while enlightening the crowd with various bird calls. She concluded by supplying reference materials for those who wanted to learn more such as the book, Birding by Ear.