Activity Director & Dietician
Kathryn is a highly skilled and dedicated professional who has made a significant impact in the healthcare industry as a dual-role dietician and activity director here at The Bridges. With a passion for improving the lives of older adults, Kathryn has successfully integrated her expertise in nutrition and activity planning to create a holistic approach to senior care.
Born and raised in a close-knit community, Kathryn developed a deep sense of compassion and empathy towards the elderly from an early age. This led them to pursue a career in healthcare, focusing on geriatric care. Kathryn completed her associate degree at DMACC in Culinary Arts and then her Bachelors in Dietetics from Iowa State, where she gained a strong foundation in understanding the importance of proper nutrition for overall health and well-being.
After completing her education, Kathryn began their career as a dietician and has been aiding the community for the past 15 years. Here, she works closely with patients or residents of all ages, specializing in developing personalized meal plans to address various health conditions. Her exceptional knowledge and ability to connect with patients earned her recognition as a trusted and reliable dietician.
Driven by a desire to further enhance the quality of life for older adults, Kathryn made a pivotal decision to expand her role and oversee the activity department as the director. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive approach to senior care, she saw the opportunity to combine her expertise in nutrition with the promotion of physical and mental stimulation through engaging activities.
As a dual-role dietician and activity director, Kathryn has revolutionized the way senior care is provided in our nursing home. She has successfully integrated her knowledge of nutrition and dietary requirements into the activity planning process, ensuring that residents receive meals that not only meet their nutritional needs but are also enjoyable and tailored to their preferences.
Under Kathryn's leadership, the nursing home has witnessed the implementation of innovative programs that have had a profound impact on the residents' overall well-being. They have introduced cooking classes, where residents actively participate in preparing nutritious meals, fostering a sense of independence and accomplishment. Kathryn has also developed exercise routines specifically designed for older adults, promoting physical fitness and mobility.
Through her dual-role position, Kathryn has significantly improved the quality of life for the nursing home residents. By combining their expertise in nutrition and activity planning, she has successfully enhanced residents' physical health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. Her dedication and innovative approach has assisted The Bridges in earning multiple awards and recognition within the healthcare community!
To Kathryn, working at The Bridges isn’t just a job it is working with an extended family. Kathryn states “I enjoy my co-workers, our residents, the beautiful grounds, our exceptional cares, and the dedication to promoting a positive resident experience on all accounts.”
When Kathryn is relaxing at home, she enjoys laughter and memory making with family and friends. In the spring and summertime Kathryn can be found at the lake with her paddle board or watching movies with popcorn and her husband. Of course, it is safe to say Kathryn likes long walks, reading and fitness as personal pleasures.
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