National Let's Laugh Day: LindenGrove Communities

In honor of National Let’s Laugh Day, we spoke with LindenGrove Communities, an organization that knows a thing or two about the value of laughter. 

LindenGrove shared strategies for keeping residents smiling and laughing, and how they continued to spread cheer despite limitations caused by COVID-19.

With four locations throughout Wisconsin, LindenGrove Communities offers a continuum of care, including assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing. 

At LindenGrove, quality of life for residents tops the priority list. To make this aim a reality, the organization enhances resident lives by providing joy-bringing experiences. 

Below, check out some of LindenGrove’s most laugh-inducing activities.

Spunky Old Broad day (SOB)

Crown jewels spark against the overhead light. Boas and beads ring necks. It’s not your typical royal gathering—it’s SOB day at LindenGrove and the snacks are pink and the (mock) champagne is flowing. 

The answers to never-have-I-ever and would-you-ever questions elicit waves of laughter, as the chorus of yesterday’s hits echo in the background.  

A highly-anticipated activity, this gathering not only brings grins to the faces of residents and care partners alike; it fosters connection and understanding among all those in attendance, bringing the community closer with every pink bite. 

Furry familiars 

The quick pitter of Charlie’s nails is a familiar melody filling the halls at LindenGrove Mukwonago. Owner of a diverse wardrobe, Charlie never misses the opportunity to showcase her style. One day, she sports the deep green of a Packer’s jersey. The next, the circle of a 1950s poodle skirt rings her middle, blonde ponytail bobbing in her wake.  

Charlie isn’t alone in her visits to LindenGrove. Care Partners are habitually accompanied by their furry counterparts who sport holiday-inspired costumes. Residents delight in these visits, finding joy in the animals’ presence, reaching for another pet, another ear scratch, another purr.  

Animal visits don’t stop there—LindenGrove often hosts a petting zoo complete with baby chicks, ducks, guinea pigs and fan-favorite Nala the goat. 

Outdoor oasis

As the cold of Wisconsin’s winter melts, spring nudges persistently. Residents gather to participate in gardening and other outdoor activities as they bask in the warmth of the sun. 

In the garden, the smell of earth rises as residents plant herbs and sow flower seeds for one-day blooms. 

Residents walk, breathe the fresh air and gather to socialize. While outdoor activities have long been a beloved activity at LindenGrove, this year saw an uptick in outside activity due to COVID-19. The community looks forward to live music concerts, tea parties on the patio and enjoying good conversation and laughter buoyed by a light, summer breeze. 

Although this past year has been challenging, LindenGrove has maintained their commitment to offering their residents the highest quality of life possible. Through themed parties and animal visits, outdoor activities and community-building activities, the organization keeps joy and laughter flowing, regardless of circumstance.