Carelink RI Introduces New Wellness Program

East Providence, R.I. (July 9, 2024): CareLink RI, a statewide nonprofit healthcare network of post-acute providers and community-based programs for older adults, has introduced a new program as part of its health and wellness services called “Wisdom for Living” - a life enrichment discussion group for participants to share their thoughts, be listened to, and find meaning and purpose in this chapter of their lives.

“This program challenges the mind and nurtures the spirit, which are two things that help promote social and mental wellness,” states Dr. Michelle Meunier, CareLink wellness manager, who notes that Wisdom for Living is for older adults living in the community or in settings such as senior housing, assisted living, long-term care, adult day health, or senior centers throughout Rhode Island. “Older adults today are looking for programs that challenge their mind and promote wellness. This program addresses life changes in a therapeutic and life-affirming way.”

Led by CareLink licensed and trained clinicians, Wisdom for Living facilitates deeper conversations beyond the traditional ‘hello, how are you doing’ surface interactions. Program outcomes can reduce social isolation and loneliness which have been closely linked to improved physical and mental health. Building social connections through shared life stories and experiences often leads to feelings of enhanced wellness, empowerment and validation among participants.

Providence resident Gwenette Kangis created the Wisdom for Living program in 2013, several years after her husband, Plato, passed away. Seeking meaningful work and drawing on her experience working for eight years as a companion for elders living at home, she recognized that, despite the inevitable limitations of aging, older adults still want to live as vital a life as possible. With a master’s degree in psychology and religion, she was inspired to create an educational, therapeutic and affirming program for seniors that incorporated body, mind and spirit.

“Bingo and bridge have their place, but for a life well-lived, the spirit needs to be nurtured. This is why I founded Wisdom for Living,” states Kangis. “CareLink has been a blessing and I feel certain that in keeping Wisdom for Living growing, my legacy will keep going. In addition, I believe they will continue to work diligently to help others find renewed meaning, purpose and insight to live a fulfilling, happy life despite the challenges and changes that this life chapter brings.”

Four members of CareLink’s clinical therapy team were recently trained as facilitators by Kangis, as follows: Kathleen Cassino, certified occupational therapy assistant (Smithfield resident); Tina Randall, physical therapy assistant (Warwick resident); Dr. Michelle Meunier, wellness program manager (Cumberland resident); and Michele Cornwell, wellness lead clinical trainer (South Kingstown resident). The program curriculum is flexible as each discussion group determines its size and when and how often it prefers to meet. Typically, sessions last 45-60 minutes and involve 12-14 residents. Currently, Tockwotton on the Waterfront (East Providence), Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Providence), and The Village at Waterman Lake (Greenville) are offering Wisdom for Living group sessions to their residents through CareLink.

For more information on CareLink’s Wisdom for Living program, contact Dr. Michelle Meunier at mmeunier@carelinkri.org.