Although our outing to Casa de Mañana was during the most intense few hours of rain this year so far, it was still clear how beautiful the surrounding environment and seaside views there are. I had actually previously passed by Casa de Mañana various times when walking along the coast, and I never knew that those gorgeous old buildings are a care home, I thought it was a resort!
Getting a tour inside the residence and facility only impressed me further, as I could see how many services were available for seniors. The library boasted collections of books and artwork, and there we spoke to two elders who were putting together a puzzle. Both elders expressed that they truly enjoyed the few years they had been at Casa de Mañana so far, especially due to the sense of community they encountered. I believe that this sense of community is fostered through the atmosphere of the home as well as all the services they offer, from a beauty salon to a second-hand store, to a saltwater pool, to a beautiful dining room where fitness classes take place. It also amazed me to see that one elder from the community is still a practicing artist, and her artwork is displayed all throughout the library. Casa de Mañana helps to support elders in doing any activity or hobby they desire, and I think that this brings them joy and supports a sense of purpose for them.
A group of classmates and I were able to have an hour-long conversation with two women both named Phyllis, and it was eye-opening to see how they viewed Casa de Mañana as a fun community rather than a drab senior care home. They described it as having the dynamic of a high school: it’s lively, there are lots of people to interact with and learn from, and there’s even some competition for guys! Both Phyllises expressed that they enjoy their time there and that their rooms’ ocean views bring them so much happiness.
Casa de Mañana is an example of what a senior care center should be: somewhere where elders feel happy, free, and grateful to live at. It’s definitely a more privileged place to age, but I believe that the community that Casa de Mañana fosters can be brought to more senior care homes, as it’s what elders deserve.
Getting a tour inside the residence and facility only impressed me further, as I could see how many services were available for seniors. The library boasted collections of books and artwork, and there we spoke to two elders who were putting together a puzzle. Both elders expressed that they truly enjoyed the few years they had been at Casa de Mañana so far, especially due to the sense of community they encountered. I believe that this sense of community is fostered through the atmosphere of the home as well as all the services they offer, from a beauty salon to a second-hand store, to a saltwater pool, to a beautiful dining room where fitness classes take place. It also amazed me to see that one elder from the community is still a practicing artist, and her artwork is displayed all throughout the library. Casa de Mañana helps to support elders in doing any activity or hobby they desire, and I think that this brings them joy and supports a sense of purpose for them.
A group of classmates and I were able to have an hour-long conversation with two women both named Phyllis, and it was eye-opening to see how they viewed Casa de Mañana as a fun community rather than a drab senior care home. They described it as having the dynamic of a high school: it’s lively, there are lots of people to interact with and learn from, and there’s even some competition for guys! Both Phyllises expressed that they enjoy their time there and that their rooms’ ocean views bring them so much happiness.
Casa de Mañana is an example of what a senior care center should be: somewhere where elders feel happy, free, and grateful to live at. It’s definitely a more privileged place to age, but I believe that the community that Casa de Mañana fosters can be brought to more senior care homes, as it’s what elders deserve.