Employee Spotlight

The mastermind behind the fun activities, programs and events held at Searstone is none other than Mark Johnson, Director of Resident Life and Wellness. Mark and his Life Enrichment team have one main goal in common: make sure you’re having a good time. He’s also there to make sure your health and wellness are prioritized without you ever knowing you’re really exercising.

Get to know a little bit about Mark, from how he stays connected to residents to how he incorporates resident feedback into all community programs. Take a look into who Mark really is and how his passion for helping others has continued to drive his career.

Q: Can you summarize your role at Searstone?

A: As the Director of Resident Life and Wellness, I ensure we’re engaging as many residents as possible. I’m responsible for everyday activities, outings and all the in-house fun we provide. I’m also in charge of all of the fitness classes available here at Searstone. I teach all of them. I get to play all day! I don’t think of it as work.

Q: How did you get involved in senior living and Searstone specifically?

A:I started out in senior living when I was 15 years old in dining services. My first job was a server, and I discovered my passion for serving others and making people happy. I joined Searstone because I was looking for growth personally and professionally and eventually moved into the wellness side of things. 

I was excited about the idea of opening a brand-new community and making it exactly what we wanted it to be. I was also intrigued by the community; it’s so active and vibrant, and it’s a very inviting place to be.

Q: In what ways do you stress the importance of wellness to Searstone residents?

A: Of course it can be tough to get people to be active, but I remind them it’s not just exercise. It’s so much more than that – good for their minds, not just their bodies. So we try to offer as many programs as possible, and I encourage them to find something they really enjoy. If they’re having fun doing it, they’ll be more comfortable, and it’s likely they will see more progress with an activity they enjoy.

Q: What programs that you’re involved with are most popular within the community?

A:The most popular activities are the ones that revolve around social experiences – whether that’s a dance, music program or special dinner. Residents like unique experiences where they can get together with others and spend time together.

Fitness is popular too, and it’s the most important in my opinion. Exercise makes strong bodies and also strong minds. When our residents are involved in these fitness routines, they become active and independent. It’s very beneficial to their health and state of being.

Q: How would you say you stay connected with residents personally?

A: I get to know everyone and talk to them whenever I can. We smile, laugh and joke together. They especially appreciate all of my dad jokes.

Q: How do you use resident feedback to impact their day-to-day activities?

A: The Life Enrichment Committee allows us to collaborate closely with our residents. So we ask them to connect with residents on what’s working and what’s not. It’s so important that the residents know their voices are heard and their feedback is vital to the success of the programs.

Q: How did you keep the sense of community while being mindful of restrictions and social distancing?

A:Zoom was a lifesaver. We did all of our activities virtually. There would be about 30 to 40 people in a Zoom fitness class – even people who hadn’t attended classes in the past. While the pandemic was at its peak, we knew it was important to make sure residents knew there was still fun to be had, even if it was virtual for the time being. 

We also held classes outdoors and kept a safe distance from one another. This was a positive experience for our residents because it gave them the opportunity to explore the grounds of the community. We often gathered outside by the lake for classes and programs to take advantage of the beautiful weather.

Q: What have you planned recently as restrictions have loosened that you’re most excited about?

A:We’re planning a big health fair where different areas of wellness will be represented. This is going to include lots of fun activities for our residents while educating them at the same time. 

We’re also doing a concert series outside, which gives people the chance to enjoy the outdoors, listen to great music and spend some time with each other.

Q: What are you looking forward to about The Highview as it relates to resident life and wellness?

A: I can’t wait to meet the new people that are joining. With new people comes new interests, and that means opportunities for different activities. I’m looking forward to seeing how the program will change and evolve. I’m always excited to engage our residents and provide enrichment to their lives through our programs.

Q: What are your interests outside of your role at Searstone?

A: I’m a big college sports fan and always rooting for East Carolina University. I enjoy spending time with my family.  My wife and I have it on our bucket list to visit every major league baseball stadium in the country with our three kids.  We’ve been to about seven or eight.

Q: How can you summarize your passion for your job at Searstone?

A:All in all, if I help people reach their goals, I believe I’ve succeeded. If they make the commitment to show up then they’ve already done the hardest part and I’m committed to working with them every step of the way. We do the work together. 

Thanks, Mark, for your hard work and all you put into the community.