Glass Creations Paves Way for New Activities

“Did you see my bowl?” asked Vera Hall, Pioneer Manor resident. “It’s just lovely.”

“Can you believe I made that? I think the other residents are jealous,” quipped Sharon Skidmore, another resident at Pioneer Manor.

Vera and Sharon recently worked with Pioneer Manor employee Jaime Eager, COTA certified occupational therapy assistant, on some glass art projects—creating magnificent candle holders, necklaces and trays.

“This is their home, and we want them to participate in activities that make them feel good about themselves and boost their confidence, while helping them maintain their cognitive development and motor skills” says Jaime. “Just look at how beautiful these creations are, and they—and, now, many others—can’t wait to participate again.”

Jaime hopes to hold a few other glass art classes with more residents so they can make holiday gifts for their families—creating priceless heirlooms to be cherished for generations. After the holiday rush is over, Jaime hopes to continue to work with residents and create pieces that can be sold at the resident store.

The glass working class is just a taste of some other new activities Pioneer Manor is considering, according to Jaime. She, and Pioneer Manor Interim Director Jonni Belden are looking to enhance the current activities program with additional activities such as plays and music performances. Other possibilities for the future include baking, crocheting, leather working, painting, photography, sewing, and much more.

The Neighbors of Pioneer Manor Advisory Committee recently approved a donation for staff to set up an art studio in a former Pioneer Manor Apartment. Jaime will begin by purchasing a kiln, materials and tools necessary for creating glass art. Once this is set up, she hopes that residents will create pieces that can be sold in the resident store to allow them to continue to purchase materials and make more creations—as well as purchase materials needed for other activity programs.

Jaime and Jonni are quick to point out that they are not alone in this endeavor. They both mentioned how none of this could have been done without the help of the Director of Nursing Tammy Turnbull, activity aides—Diane Steinlicht, Doreen Haught, Marla Russell and Sondra Dabney—as well as the restorative aides—Twyla Greub and Brenda Cargal.

“They do a wonderful job of working with the residents and helping them in all of the activities. Hats off to them for all that they do,” says Jonni.

For more information about the activities going on at Pioneer Manor, call 307.688.7000.