Throughout the past year, Myrtle Terraces II has worked to prioritize the health and wellness of residents through continuing its partnership with Brenau University implemented in phase one of Myrtle Terraces. Brenau University students and faculty in nursing, physical therapy and occupational therapy work with the staff of Myrtle Terraces II and the B. J. Searles Foundation to provide health promotion events, resources for the residents, a health fair and health screenings at the community. This collaboration not only benefits residents, but also allows students to gain clinical experience and complete level one fieldwork.
Residents of Myrtle Terraces I have had access to group counseling by the Brenau University Department of Psychology. Made possible by a grant from the United Way of Hall County, student counselors are placed with community members that do not have a mental health counselor on staff. This benefits both the residents, as well as students who are able to gain practicum experience through the program.
“Certain topics that come up would be issues related to aging, or perhaps the transition of moving from their prior independent living to the residential living facility. So that means you’re also talking about loneliness, grief, loss…” said graduate student and counselor to Myrtle Terraces I residents, Ivie Hall.
Through these mutually beneficial partnerships, residents are able to focus on and improve their whole health. Especially due to the periods of mandated isolation and social distancing this past year, the mental health of our senior population is more important than ever.
Resident Glenda Harrell has experienced many of these positive benefits since making Myrtle Terraces her home. “Living at Myrtle Terraces has improved my quality of life a great deal. The place is beautiful; we have a lot of activities and I socialize more. I am never lonesome as there is always someone to talk to or participate in activities with. I love it here,” Harrell said.
To learn more about Myrtle Terraces, feel free to visit the community’s website or email myrtleterraces@fairwaymanagement.com.
