Meet Kathy Carter, Resident Engagement Director at Ledgewood Bay, who brings more than 16 years of experience in senior living, including direct care as a Licensed Nursing Assistant. Inspired by caring for her great-aunt, Kathy developed a passion for providing not only compassionate care, but also meaningful connection and moments of joy. Her favorite part of her role is getting to know each resident, hearing their stories, and discovering what makes them smile. Kathy believes resident engagement goes far beyond activities; it’s about building trust, nurturing friendships, and helping residents continue doing what they love while discovering new interests. Whether chatting during book club or playing a game of Mexican Train Dominoes, she especially values the moments that bring residents together.
Resident Engagement Director Spotlight – Kathy Carter
Resident Engagement Director: Kathy Carter
Community: Ledgewood Bay
How long have you been working in senior living and what first made you interested in the field?
Before stepping into my role as Resident Engagement Director, I spent more than 16 years working in direct care as a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA), primarily supporting individuals living with dementia. My interest in senior living began on a personal level, while caring for my great-aunt during the final years of her life. That experience opened my heart to the importance of providing not only compassionate care, but also meaningful connections, companionship, and moments of joy.
What is your favorite part about working in senior living?
My favorite part of working in senior living, and especially as an Engagement Director, is having the opportunity to truly get to know each resident. I value the time I’m able to spend building genuine relationships, learning about their interests, experiences, and the things that bring them joy. It is incredibly rewarding to become someone they know they can trust and rely on. My goal is to help each resident continue to live an active, meaningful, and fulfilling life within their community while creating opportunities for laughter, friendship, and making new memories
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about being a Resident Engagement Director?
Being a Resident Engagement Director is so much more than Bingo and parties. It’s about taking the time to truly listen, connect, and learn the little things that make each resident unique. It’s understanding their interests, their stories, and the activities that bring them joy. It’s about helping residents stay active and engaged in the things they have always loved, while also encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone and discover new interests.
What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in Senior Living?
My biggest piece of advice for anyone starting a career in senior living is to slow down and take the time to truly get to know the residents. Listen to their stories, learn what makes them smile, and remember the little things that are important to them. No matter what type of work you do, always see them as the person they are first and foremost.
What is the best part about working at Ledgewood Bay or at Northbridge?
The best part of working at Ledgewood Bay is truly the people. I am fortunate to have an amazing team that works alongside me to create meaningful ways to keep our residents active and thriving. I am also continually inspired and amazed by the stories our residents have to share. Hearing about their families, adventures, careers, accomplishments, and life experiences is something I never take for granted.
What is your favorite program to do with the residents?
I really enjoy any program that gives me the opportunity to sit and talk with the residents. Whether it’s discussing the latest book in our book club or sitting around the table playing a game of Mexican Train Dominoes, taking the time to connect with each other really is my favorite part of my job.
Work in Resident Engagement with Kathy!
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