Celebrating a Remarkable Year at Applewood
When I came on-board in 2014, I met with residents and managers from all departments to establish a short- and long-term (five to seven years) strategic growth and improvement plan for Applewood, an active retirement community located in Freehold, NJ.
We also conducted an in-depth resident and staff survey which identified short-term and long-term priorities and areas of interest for the future.
The outcome of these efforts was a detailed strategy which encompassed three areas of focus:
- Technology
- Resident programming
- Environment
I would like to look back at 2018 and share some of the accomplishments which support this original mission statement, established four years ago:
Bistro Casual Dining – A Floor-to-Ceiling Redesign
Two years ago, with the guidance of an interior design team, we redecorated our entrance lobby, community center, promenade and formal dining room with a more updated theme highlighted by new high-quality furnishings, wall finishes, lighting, artwork and carpets.
And we’re not finished yet.
As we speak, the installation of Applewood’s renovated casual dining room, the Bistro, is nearly complete. As you’ll soon see, we’ve also incorporated the casual elegance theme into the dining room’s furnishings, tableware, lighting, paint colors and flooring.
This update provides residents and their guests with an upscale, restaurant-style dining experience—just steps from home.
Applewood is Revamped, Renewed and Reinvigorated in 2017
Signature Series Senior Residences—Renovated, refreshed, relaxing
When a new residence becomes available, we add a fresh, updated Signature to it by completely redesigning the space from wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling.
Renovations in Signature apartments stay within the original footprint, with the exception of opening up the kitchen for a more modern look and feel. In addition, stainless appliance and high-end solid surface countertops are added.
Bathrooms are fully renovated and a full-size washer/dryer has been added. Recessing lighting throughout offers both safety and a warm ambiance.
Customizable closet organization systems are provided in all closets help residents keep clothing, accessories and other cherished items tidy and organized.
Every Applewood Residence is Customized Just for You
A Second Resident Garden Added
To meet resident interest, we constructed a second community garden featuring individually raised-beds and on-site irrigation, giving our gardeners’ ample space to plant–without a sore back at the end of the day.
“This year, residents planted several varieties of fruits and vegetables, 10-foot sunflowers, some farmer-quality sweet corn and other butterfly-loving flowers,” reports Ray Vargas, manager of building services, who oversaw the new garden’s construction and installation.
One resident harvested over 1,400 cherry tomatoes in his first season of gardening.
Al Lyter’s 70-Year Passion for Gardening Flourishes at Applewood
Dog Run
We are committed to keeping beloved pets with their owners here at Applewood.
As a final component to our outdoor amenities project which added bocce, a putting green, shuffleboard, croquet, walking path and raised garden beds, we completed a fenced-in dog run with secure gate access and comfort benches this year.
Senior Fitness Program and Technology Continues to Expand
Staff fitness coordinator Daniel Piereth has done a wonderful job responding to resident exercise needs and interests by offering 10 weekly group exercise classes, one-on-one personal training (no fee) and ongoing physical therapy support in our on-site fitness center and heated indoor pool and spa.
New in 2018, the Full Body Awareness Institute (FBI) offers a comprehensive series of expert lectures and guidance to help residents optimize their health and fitness and successfully manage chronic medical conditions.
During the summer, we introduced SmartBalance, a state-of-the-art fall prevention technology that assesses fall risk and offers customized exercises to help minimize fall risk.
Watch Daniel Perform a SmartBalance Assessment with Our Residents:
Engaged Living™–Supporting Senior Body, Mind and Spirit
Wanda Garrin, our Engaged Living coordinator, continues to astound us with fascinating expert lectures and interactive activities, day trips to exciting new destinations and on-site programming that covers virtually every topic of interest.
From Applewood-style Ted Talks to our resident jam sessions, Tools-4-Schools community service, live theatre, and creative crafting, there is truly something for every senior who calls Applewood home.
Residents also stepped-up to share their individual passions by starting their own clubs. From the Men’s Club to Calligraphy, men and women are sharing their talents and hobbies with the rest of the community, benefitting everyone.
CBS 2 New York Features Applewood’s Tools-4-Schools Volunteer Program
Dining Services Introduces Signature Cuisine
“Our new Signature dining program highlights favorite menu offerings that are unique to Applewood,” explains director of dining, Heath Braunstein.
“From Signature desserts and gourmet grilled cheeses to our famous burger options, residents can enjoy their favorite restaurant-caliber cuisine without having to drive anywhere.”
The Culinary Institute of Applewood (CIA) experienced another banner year where experts presented delicious topics each month, including a lesson on creating a delicious charcuterie board and how to select successful wine and cheese pairings.
The Best is Yet to Come in Retirement Community Living
Collectively, our community is flourishing because we are all committed—staff and residents—to making Applewood everything Engaged Living™ has outlined—a roadmap to a fulfilling life in body, mind and spirit.
We welcome you to become part of our next chapter.
Call (732) 303-7416 to schedule your personal visit or attend one of our upcoming special events.