Want to get active? Move into Good Samaritan Society – Prairie Creek assisted living.
“It’s fun and that’s the number one reason,” says Society activities coordinator Barbara Jost during a game of noodle ball with residents.
“It’s fun, it’s goofy, they can relax and just be themselves.”
Noodle ball, featuring residents with pool noodles whacking a balloon, is the most popular activity at the Sioux Falls location.
“Your blood circulates. Your endorphins are sparked,” Barbara says.
Barbara floats games like these around all day and many residents hit them hard.
“It is fun and you get good exercise,” resident Lois Rasmussen says.
Lois adds with a laugh, “and you know, if you got somebody (in the) next chair that you want to give a little jab to, you just do it.”
Resident Leah Sydow's face gets real intense during the game. She admits her eyes start watering as she attempts to make contact with the balloon.
“I’m worn out and ready to go home and take a nap,” Leah says after the rousing effort.
But first, how about a little trivia with fellow companions to get the day underway.
‘I can do all sorts of things with my friends’
Leah and her husband Reed moved in a year ago and like to take advantage of the social calendar.
“It’s a big change but I’m very satisfied,” Leah says about the relocation.
Reed adds, “we don’t have to either one cook. A lot of things are taken care of for us.”
The couple is celebrating an incredible 70 years of marriage. They're finding jokes, laughter and friendly conversations are easily accessible in their new home.
“That’s one of my goals is to make sure everybody is up and moving around,” Barbara says. “And everybody is socializing and enjoying themselves.”
“Everybody needs someone there to talk to and I hope it makes them feel at home. That’s my main goal is to make them feel like I’m at home here and I can do all sorts of things with my friends.”
Activities—and care if needed—for the whole person in a vibrant community.
“I think that’s good for our mind and our soul and our person,” Lois says.
Each Society location strives to provide enriching opportunities for its residents.
“I want them to feel that they’re important and they matter,” Barbara says.
“You’re never too old to learn and you’re never too old to exercise and be part of your life.”
