NEWBURGH, N.Y. (Sept. 30, 2015) —- A group of Elant at Fishkill residents recently went apple picking at Lawrence Farms Orchards in Newburgh, enjoying a unique outdoor physical and occupational therapy opportunity.
The seven residents were accompanied by their physical and occupational therapists, who assisted them in the orchard to gather apples as children and parents also picked apples nearby. Afterward, the group enjoyed freshly made apple cinnamon donuts and cider at the farm’s market.
“Apple picking is something different for our residents to do and we love taking them to Lawrence Farms Orchards,” said Tracey Cassel-Dworetzky, rehabilitation director for Elant at Fishkill and Wappingers. “Apple picking is a time honored tradition in the Hudson Valley. Usually you see children but this group of seniors proves apple picking is for any age.”
The benefits of a trip like this are tremendous, said Cassel-Dworetzky.
“Residents are doing things they don’t even realize,” she added. “Things like walking distances or walking on uneven surfaces. These are things they need to do to be as independent as possible. This apple picking activity definitely has a therapeutic value. It’s so much more than getting out on a beautiful day.”
There’s one more thing which Cassel-Dworetzky felt was appealing.
“The best part for me is listening to their stories of how they took their children and grandchildren apple picking,” she said. “To be able to do this for them and give them new memories is very satisfying.”
ABOUT ELANT
Elant is a comprehensive health care system that serves the needs of more than 3,500 individuals throughout the Hudson Valley region. The organization includes six campuses and employs more than 1,200 dedicated individuals. Elant provides a full continuum of care, including Sub-Acute Care and Rehabilitation Services, Skilled Nursing Care, Assisted Living, Adult Day Care, Retirement Community Living, Home Health Care and a Managed Long Term Care Plan. To learn more, call 800-501-3936.
