This winter break, 23 Health Care Administration students traveled to Milwaukee, WI and Chicago, IL to gain exposure to senior care facilities.
Students gather for dinner at Point Burger Bar in Milwaukee
On January 7th, the group made its first visit to Direct Supply. Direct Supply is a leading provider of equipment, eCommerce and service solutions to the Senior Living industry. In addition, Direct Supply is a valued partner of the Center for Health Administration and Aging Services Excellence. Students were given a tour of the grounds and were introduced to the operations within the organization. The group had the opportunity to learn about new and emerging technology for senior care facilities, test out therapeutic and care equipment, and even had the opportunity to sit in on calls with account managers providing service to customers.
Students test out beds at Direct Supply
The next day, day two, the group departed Milwaukee and headed to Chicago! First up, the group toured Alden of Barrington. While there, students had the opportunity to hear from department head at the facility and learn about leadership and operations within a large senior care facility. Current HCAD student, Anthony Argueta, is currently completing his practicum at the site, and was able to offer students insight on what their final year of the program has to offer.
Students at Alden Estates of Barrington
The second site of the day was Alden Estates of Huntley, where students were given an in-depth look at their newly opened short-term rehabilitation and post-acute care center. Because the Huntley facility is so new, the students were able to learn from Emily, the Administrator, all that is involved in opening and getting a new facility up and running.
Students showing of their hair nets at Alden Estates of Huntley
Day three brought a visit to Heritage Woods, a low-income assisted living option, located on the west side of Chicago. Heritage Woods gave the students a close look at an urban facility in a low-income area. It was a great opportunity to learn about working in a setting such as this, as students aren’t normally exposed to these facilities through the HCAD program.
After visiting Heritage Woods, it was time for some FUN! The group visited the Shedd Aquarium, spent time in Downtown Chicago, and dined at a jazz club.
Shedd Aquarium
Day four started out at another partner facility, Windsor Park of Covenant Retirement. Current HCAD practicum student, Abbie Little, shared her experience at Windsor Park, and provided students with a tour, discussion with leadership, and even fun activities with residents! The facility also gave students their first look at a CCRC, or continuing care retirement community, and the continuum of services and options available.
Students at Windsor Park
Following Windsor Park, we made a visit to Wynscape at Wyndemere, where HCAD practicum student Bryce Bingham is completing his practicum. We toured the expansive facility that provided living options for all levels of care and spoke with leadership about the opportunities and challenges working in continuing care.
Students at Wynscape at Wyndemere
On our final day, we spent the morning at The Claire, an LCS facility that caters to individuals looking for a luxury retirement community. The Clare is unique in that it is a high-rise facility in downtown Chicago and gave students a look at a “vertical community”. Management from the Clare spent time with the students talking about every aspect of running the building, from sales and marketing to building maintenance.
That afternoon we loaded up and headed home! It was a great trip, and we’re so thankful for all the CHAASE Partners and donors who made this experience possible!
