At Meridian at Chino, senior living in Chino is about more than comfort and care—it’s about living life to the fullest. Our residents enjoy a vibrant community filled with meaningful activities, whether they are in Independent Living, Assisted Living, or Memory Care. Our commitment to life-enriching programs helps residents stay engaged, active, and connected to one another every day.
To give you an inside look at what makes our activities program so special, we spoke with our dedicated Activities Director, Irma, who has been inspiring residents at Meridian at Chino for more than a decade.
Q: Tell us about your career so far and what brought you to this community.
Irma: I am the Activities Director here at Meridian at Chino. What brought me here was the opportunity to make a meaningful difference, the value placed on our residents, and the chance to share my creativity. I truly enjoy engaging with our residents and getting to know each of them personally.
Q: How long have you been working in senior living and what drew you to activities programming?
Irma: I have been working at Meridian at Chino for 10 years. What drew me to activities was the opportunity to share my creativity and ideas in ways that support each resident’s individual needs. I truly enjoy connecting with our residents and creating meaningful experiences for them every day.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career as an Activities Director?
Irma: What inspired me to pursue a career as an Activities Director was my passion for creativity and connection. I’ve always enjoyed coming up with new ideas and activities that bring joy, engagement, and purpose to people’s lives. Being able to tailor those experiences to meet each resident’s unique needs and interests is what motivates me every day.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of planning and leading activities for seniors?
Irma: The most rewarding part is seeing the joy, connection, and sense of purpose that the activities bring to residents’ daily lives. Watching residents engage, smile, and build meaningful relationships reminds me why I love what I do—it’s about creating moments that truly make a difference.
Q: How do you approach creating a calendar that balances fun, engagement, and wellness?
Irma: When creating a calendar, I focus on offering a well-rounded mix of programs that support residents’ physical, emotional, social, and cognitive wellness. I combine engaging activities such as games and social events with creative outlets like arts and crafts, as well as programs that promote relaxation and overall well-being. I also listen closely to resident feedback so the calendar reflects what is most meaningful to them.
Q: What role do you believe activities play in helping residents feel at home and connected?
Irma: Activities play a vital role in helping residents feel at home and connected. They provide opportunities for residents to build friendships, express themselves, and stay engaged in ways that bring them joy and purpose. Activities create a sense of community, turning our building into not just a place to live, but a place to truly belong.
Q: How do you get to know residents’ hobbies, interests, and preferences?
Irma: I get to know residents’ hobbies, interests, and preferences by spending time with them one-on-one, asking questions, and really listening to their stories. I also work closely with families and our care team to learn more about each resident’s background. This helps me tailor activities that are meaningful and personal, ensuring everyone feels included and engaged.
Q: Is there a particular activity or program that holds special meaning for you?
Irma: The activity that holds special meaning for me is our Holiday Events. I love seeing residents engage with their families and the entire community coming together to celebrate. These moments are filled with joy, laughter, and connection, and it’s so rewarding to watch residents create special memories with their loved ones.
Q: What’s one unique skill, hobby, or talent you bring that residents might not expect?
Irma: I enjoy turning ideas into fun and meaningful activities, often adding a creative twist. I love creating themed events and surprising residents with new and exciting ideas that keep them engaged and looking forward to what’s next.
Q: Can you share a favorite memory or moment from an activity that made a lasting impact?
Irma: One lasting impact I’ve seen from an activity was when a resident tried Mexican Train Dominoes for the first time. At first, she didn’t want to play, but once she learned the game, she became so excited and said how much she enjoyed it. From that day forward, she wanted to play every day. Moments like that remind me how powerful activities can be in sparking joy and helping residents discover new passions.
The Importance of Activities in Senior Living
Activities at Meridian at Chino are designed to enrich every aspect of our residents’ lives. Engaging in programs supports physical health, emotional well-being, cognitive function, and social connection. Residents can participate in fitness classes to stay active, arts and crafts to express creativity, or group games to encourage camaraderie. Special celebrations, themed parties, and holiday gatherings create lasting memories and bring the community together.
By providing a variety of programs, our activities team ensures that every resident finds something they enjoy. Whether it’s learning a new hobby, revisiting a favorite pastime, or making new friends, activities are a cornerstone of what makes senior living in Chino fulfilling and vibrant.
Experience Senior Living in Chino at Meridian
At Meridian at Chino, our life-enriching activities, caring staff, and supportive community create an environment where residents can thrive. Our programs are tailored to every resident, helping them stay active, connected, and engaged in meaningful ways. Life at Meridian at Chino isn’t just about living—it’s about enjoying every day to its fullest.
If you are exploring senior living in Chino, we invite you to visit Meridian at Chino and see firsthand how our activities, care, and community spirit make a difference. Schedule a tour today and discover how our residents enjoy life, build friendships, and create lasting memories every day.
