Patricia “Pat” LaPlante is directing a choir and preparing for two Christmas performances. With an audience that fills the room, apparently one show isn’t enough.
At 96, Pat has found plenty to keep her busy at Edgewood Hermantown. But directing the community’s 20-member choir holds a special place in her heart. Many of its members sang in choirs earlier in life. Pat herself spent about 20 years as a choir director. She hadn’t expected to take on that role again. Then, somewhere between settling in and getting involved, music found its way back into her life.
“We’re having a lot of fun with it,” she says. “It puts purpose in my life.”
With friendships to enjoy and a choir counting on her, Pat has plenty to look forward to. Looking after her health helps her keep making time for what she loves, and having access to Legacy Medical where she lives gives her someone nearby to turn to with questions.
“I’m the one who made that decision to come here.”
Before moving to Edgewood, Pat already knew her way around.
She had visited friends from her church parish, stopping in to catch up or taking a dear friend out for lunch. The community was near her home and close to her church. It was familiar territory, even if she hadn’t pictured herself living there.
When an illness led her to consider assisted living, Edgewood came to mind.
Still, choosing the move didn’t mean every part was easy. Pat was accustomed to getting in her car and going wherever she pleased. Giving up that routine took some adjusting.
Over time, familiar surroundings became home, and new neighbors became friends. “I’ve made some wonderful friends here,” she says. “They come from all walks of life.”
Finding Her Own Rhythm
When Pat first arrived, she jumped into activities, exercised, and tried a little of everything. Eventually, she realized she had some decisions to make. There were only so many hours in the day, after all.
“A person here can be as busy as they want,” she says.
For Pat, the choir became a priority, giving her a chance to use her experience, bring people together, and do something she loves. This December, the group plans to present a Christmas program and sing-along in the main dining room, followed by another performance in the fireside dining room the following week.
That gives the choir plenty to look forward to and its director plenty to do.
“Pat is a wonderful example of how our residents are able to continue to share their passions and talents. Our choir brings people together, gives residents a sense of purpose, and believe me, they take it very seriously! You should see their concerts; they all get dressed to the nines and invite their families. It really is very sweet.”
Jenna Farmer,
Admissions & Family Relations Director at Edgewood Hermantown
A Little Prevention, a Lot to Look Forward To
With rehearsals to lead and friends to spend time with, Pat has plenty of reasons to look after her health. Her approach to preventive care is straightforward.
“Don’t wait till you get sick.”
She has long made time for annual physicals and recommended immunizations. Before moving to Edgewood, she drove to a pharmacy for her shots. Now that she no longer drives, having flu vaccinations available within the community removes an extra step.
When residents were notified about a recent on-site flu vaccination opportunity, Pat signed up right away. She recalls receiving her shot in the sunroom, without needing to arrange a ride elsewhere.
Pat appreciates having someone nearby to turn to with questions, whether it’s her Edgewood nurse or Anna Rosenberg, her nurse practitioner with Legacy Medical.
“Providing care right in the home allows residents to focus less on getting to appointments and more on staying healthy and enjoying the things they love. By bringing healthcare to them, we help make care more convenient, comfortable, and centered around their quality of life.”
Amanda Gardiner, BS, RTR
Vice President of Clinical Operations at Legacy Medical
Plenty of Life Left on the Calendar
For Pat, looking after her health remains part of a life filled with friendships, purpose, and music.
Having a familiar provider nearby means she has someone to answer her questions, listen to her concerns, and follow up. And with two Christmas performances ahead, there’s still music to make.
Reach out to Legacy Medical at info@legacymedical.com to learn how our team can support your preventive care needs.
