Creative TV Programming Keeps Linden Ponds Residents and Staff Informed and Engaged

"Staying Connected During the Pandemic in Meaningful Ways"

Hingham, MA – When the stay-at-home order went into effect in mid-March at Linden Ponds, an Erickson Living developed and managed senior living community in Hingham, MA, internal TV studio (LPTV) staff and resident volunteers immediately began brainstorming on how they could support important new communication priorities, as well as provide interesting and creative programming during a critical time.

"The very day residents were asked to stay at home, many of the TV studio resident volunteers reached out asking how they could continue to provide entertainment, inspirational messages and much more from their apartments," said Linden Ponds TV Manager Elizabeth Patton.   "A few of the many ways this has been achieved is by hosting live interactive talk shows, holding exercises classes and participating and conducting programs and discussions via Zoom (video communications). It's been an amazing effort and I'm proud we have been able to serve the community such a valuable way."

Creative Zoom programming at Linden Ponds has included The Linden Ponds "LIVE Sports Show" hosted by staff and residents, mini prayer services, which air each Sunday and the "Heart to Heart" show, hosted by resident Gloria Alvino.  Also, resident Lo Steele is hosting the "LPTV LIVE Talk Show" via Zoom on Thursday mornings from her apartment, which includes another resident providing weekly weather reports. "The show must go on and that's exactly what we are doing here at Linden Ponds," noted Steele. Furthermore, Director of Sales Christine Hansen hosts a weekly show where she chats with Linden Ponds residents and shares information those on campus enjoy, like birthdays and anniversaries. 

Further reflecting the community's commitment to transparent and timely information sharing, twice a week, Executive Director Jim Centola, Director of General Services, John Amonte and Medical Director, Dr. Jennifer Tam, participate in a "Director's Update" half-hour program.  This is a must-watch show for anyone on campus looking to obtain the latest information on how staff is keeping community members and each other safe, healthy, and connected. To make sure residents have ample opportunity to discuss issues of importance and ask questions, each week Centola also hosts a one-hour "LIVE Call-In Show."  

Jeff Watson, Erickson Living's Director of Operations, gives high praise to the broadcast professionals and virtual resident volunteers at Linden Ponds. "They deserve great credit for the creative, high-quality programming they've produced throughout this unprecedented situation. Their innovation and hard work have resulted in a heightened level of communication that has kept those on campus connected, engaged."

"The Linden Ponds community has really come together to stay connected and engaged during these unprecedented times," said Patton.  "I am proud to be a member of this team."

Photo: Linden Ponds Director of Sales Christine Hansen chats with resident Tom Bleakney via Zoom during her weekly Live Show.

About Linden Ponds: Linden Ponds, one of 20 continuing care communities developed and managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 108-acre campus in Hingham, Massachusetts. The not-for-profit community of more than 1300 residents and 800 employees is governed by its own board of directors, affiliated with National Senior Campuses, who provide independent financial and operational oversight of the community. Additional information about Linden Ponds can be found at LindenPonds.com.