At Cottages at Hemet, senior living in Hemet is more than just a place to call home. It is a vibrant community where residents can thrive, stay engaged, and feel a true sense of belonging. Our team provides personalized care and creates meaningful experiences for every resident, whether they are in Independent Living, Assisted Living, or Memory Care. At the heart of these life-enriching experiences is our passionate Activities Director, Sherry Reed, whose dedication and creativity have touched the lives of residents for decades.
A Lifetime of Dedication to Seniors
Sherry’s journey in senior care began when she was 16 years old. Her first experiences came from helping a gentleman in her mobile home park. He shared stories of his life, including a fascinating tale about how he and his father helped change a tire for the infamous Bonnie and Clyde bank robbers. The antique jack still sat on his porch as a reminder of history and connection. From that moment, Sherry realized the power of listening, engaging, and connecting with seniors, a principle she carries with her to this day.
In 2000, Sherry began working at what would become Cottages at Hemet. After gaining experience in memory care for four years, she briefly left but returned in 2009. Since then, she has worked as a caregiver and weekend concierge, always finding ways to connect deeply with residents.
From Caregiver to Activities Director
In 2024, an opportunity arose for Sherry to join the activities team as an assistant. Having spent most of her career in memory care, she was drawn to the chance to bring joy and engagement directly through activities. She recalls the most touching moments, connecting with residents who seemed disengaged at first, only to see their faces light up when a familiar song played and they sang along. Those small, meaningful moments became her reward.
Sherry’s love for music and dance shines through in her approach. She admits she is a little bashful, but she enjoys singing and dancing with residents, bringing energy and warmth to the community. One memorable moment was in 2017 when Sherry and her daughter brought their horses to the property. Nearly every resident came outside to pet and love on the horses, creating unforgettable memories and highlighting the deep connection between staff and residents at Cottages at Hemet.
Recently, Sherry was asked to take on an interim role as Activities Director. Though initially unsure, she embraced the opportunity, eager to bring fresh ideas to the activities calendar. She plans to work closely with residents to understand their preferences and ensure their favorite traditions remain. While residents are open to new activities, Sherry notes that bingo remains a beloved staple, and they are very passionate about keeping it just as it is.
Creating Life-Enriching Activities
At Cottages at Hemet, activities are a cornerstone of senior living in Hemet. They provide residents with opportunities to socialize, stay mentally and physically active, and explore new hobbies. Sherry and her team design programs that meet residents’ needs while honoring their preferences, creating a balance between fun, wellness, and meaningful engagement.
Some activities focus on physical wellness, including light exercise classes, stretching, and dance. Others encourage cognitive engagement, such as trivia games, brain teasers, and memory-based activities that are especially beneficial for memory care residents. Arts and crafts provide a creative outlet, while musical events allow residents to sing, dance, and reminisce, fostering joy and emotional connection.
Sherry emphasizes that listening to residents is key to creating successful activities. She says, “I want to know what they love. Some residents are all about bingo, while others enjoy crafts or music. My goal is to make sure everyone has opportunities to participate in ways that make them happy.” This resident-centered approach ensures that every activity contributes to a meaningful and fulfilling daily life.
Connecting Through Shared Experiences
Activities at Cottages at Hemet are more than just programs. They create moments of connection. Residents form friendships, discover new interests, and feel a sense of purpose every day. Sherry’s personal touch and her willingness to participate in activities help foster this sense of community.
From bringing in animals for pet therapy to hosting themed parties and holiday events, Sherry ensures that the activities calendar is dynamic, fun, and reflective of residents’ interests. Music, dance, and interactive games are part of her approach, creating shared experiences that encourage laughter, camaraderie, and engagement.
For residents in memory care, these experiences are especially meaningful. Participating in music, movement, and creative activities helps residents reconnect with memories, stimulates cognitive function, and brings comfort and joy. Witnessing these moments is one of the most rewarding aspects of Sherry’s role.
The Heart of Senior Living in Hemet
At Cottages at Hemet, senior living in Hemet is about fostering connection, promoting wellness, and celebrating every resident’s individuality. The combination of high-quality care, engaging activities, and a supportive community creates an environment where residents can truly thrive.
Sherry’s dedication exemplifies the heart of our community. Her decades of experience, her love for connecting with residents, and her creativity in planning activities ensure that every day is filled with meaningful engagement. Residents know they are valued, heard, and cared for, not just as individuals, but as part of a vibrant and supportive community.
Experience Cottages at Hemet
If you are exploring senior living in Hemet, Cottages at Hemet offers a community where care, connection, and joy come together. From Independent Living to Assisted Living and Memory Care, residents enjoy programs and activities designed to enhance every aspect of their lives.
Schedule a tour today and see how Cottages at Hemet brings residents together through music, games, creativity, and connection. Discover a community where every day offers opportunities to live fully, build friendships, and create lasting memories.
