As an approach to health, wellness looks beyond the biomedical model and integrates six dimensions — physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, vocational and emotional. Healthy living becomes an individual responsibility.

Attitude is as important as exercise and progress must be measured against individual potential, not a standard medical norm. Instead of asking, “what’s wrong?” the idea is to probe for “what’s right” to build a roster of activities around an individual’s passions and talents.

At ERH, our goal is to help older adults make the right choices to remain healthy and independent. By creating individualized wellness programs for our residents and staff, we have chosen to be the innovative leader in creating an environment that enriches the body, mind and spirit.

The American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging has recognized this guidance with an article in its publication, Best Practices.