Social isolation and cognitive decline are common concerns among older adults, especially those living in assisted living or long-term care communities. Many residents tend to stay in their rooms, limiting both their physical activity and opportunities for social engagement, which can negatively affect mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
To address this need, the Trinity Craft Series was launched in early 2024 as a monthly outreach initiative designed to engage residents in hands-on crafting activities. Each session includes an educational discussion tied to either the most recent Healthy Choices Newsletter or a topic from the Wits Workout publication series. These educational segments provide simple wellness tips, recipes, and cognitive challenges to support brain health and healthy living. The combination of crafting and conversation fosters both creativity and meaningful social interaction.
Each session attracts a consistent group of 3 to 5 regular attendees, with peak participation reaching up to 15 residents. The target audience includes older adults residing in the Trinity community who are seeking light social engagement, creative expression, and practical health information.
Evaluation feedback and participant observation indicate that residents feel more connected and mentally stimulated following each session. Several participants have reported trying new recipes and applying healthy lifestyle tips shared during the sessions. Regular attendees have shown increased willingness to engage in other group activities and consistently express appreciation for the opportunity to gather, share, and create. The Trinity Craft Series has become a valued part of the community calendar, promoting both cognitive wellness and social well-being among residents.