The Residence at Colvin Run’s new LifeStories Director Gloria Sani holds her Yorkipoo named Ava. The puppy has brought smiles to residents and team members’ face throughout the community.
Gloria Sani and Yorkipoo Named Ava Join Team at Great Falls Senior Living Community
GREAT FALLS, Va. – When Gloria Sani became LifeStories Director at The Residence at Colvin Run earlier this month, the IntegraCare-operated senior living community actually gained two team members.
In addition to her nearly nine years of experience working closely with memory care residents, Sani brings another asset to work – a four-legged partner.
“Every day, right next to me is my trusty sidekick and princess, Ava, a friendly and affectionate 16-month-old Yorkipoo,” Sani said. “Ava enjoys dressing up every day in pretty outfits. She is very friendly and gets along with people and other pets. Most important, she brings immense joy to the residents.
“I bought and trained Ava to become a ‘pet therapy’ for the residents,” she said. “Ava gives them emotional support, comfort and companionship, which can be especially beneficial for the residents. Ava creates a positive uplifting atmosphere.”
Sani and her puppy provide an effective one-two combination in helping the residents.
Three guiding principles have influenced Sani in nearly a decade of her working closely with memory care residents – empathy, compassion and forging meaningful connections.
“When I work with our residents, I put myself in their shoes,” said Sani, a native of Nigeria who has lived 23 years in the United States. “I take the time to understand their feelings, needs and frustrations.”
That means actively listening, not just to words, but also to tone and body language. It means acknowledging emotions and offering a comforting presence through a gentle touch and calm patience, Sani said. By slowing down and matching her pace to the residents’ needs, she creates an environment where they feel understood and valued.
“As far as the ‘human connection,’ I build relationships by taking time to know the resident’s interests, hobbies, and life stories,” Sani said. “I communicate with eye contact, showing I value them, and use holding hands or hugs, appropriate touching, to show affection. I like to offer activities the residents enjoy, fostering sense of community.”
The Residence at Colvin Run Executive Operations Officer Melissa Dasig said Sani has made a positive impression since joining the team in early September.
“Gloria brings a positive approach and valuable experience to our senior living community,” Dasig said. “She is a true asset to our team and our residents. We also love having her puppy Ava by her side, bringing smiles to the faces of our residents and team members.”
The feeling has been mutual.
In her early weeks at The Residence at Colvin Run, Sani already has been struck by the warmth and dedication of those who work so hard to better the residents’ lives. “The care the team shows for the residents is exceptional,” Sani said. “I’m thrilled to join such a committed community.”
For more information, contact Melissa Dasig, Executive Operations Officer, The Residence at Colvin Run, at mdasig@integracare.com or call 703.223.5226.