Recreation team brings senior wellness to life at Bellevue Park
Credit Langley Advanced Times
Jen White and Paloma Castro bring energy, empathy and purpose to recreation programming, helping Bellevue residents connect, move and thrive.
Therapeutic Recreation Month highlights how Aldergrove senior residence supports wellness, connection and aging well
At Bellevue Park Senior Living in Aldergrove, recreation is more than a daily activity – it’s a vital part of how residents connect, grow and thrive.
This February, as Therapeutic Recreation Month shines a spotlight on the power of purposeful programming, Bellevue’s Independent Living recreation team is leading the conversation on what life enrichment truly means.
At the heart of this work is Jennifer White, a Therapeutic Recreation Therapist whose approach centres on the belief that wellness is holistic, personal and always evolving. In early February, White shared the benefits of recreation and life enrichment in senior living communities, exploring how intentional programming supports physical health, cognitive engagement, emotional wellbeing, and meaningful social connection.
“Therapeutic recreation looks at the whole person,” White explains. “Physical, cognitive, social, emotional, spiritual – they’re all connected. When one improves, the others often follow.”
Jen White shares how purposeful recreation programming supports holistic senior wellness, connection and aging well at Bellevue Park Senior Living.
That philosophy comes to life through Bellevue’s thoughtfully designed monthly recreation calendar. Each program is created with balance and intention, offering residents opportunities to move their bodies, challenge their minds, connect with peers and rediscover joy in everyday moments.
From group fitness and word games to music-based programs and shared coffee conversations, the goal is never just to stay busy – but to feel fulfilled.
Supporting this vision is Paloma Castro, Bellevue’s Recreation Assistant, whose enthusiasm and attentiveness help turn programs into experiences. Paloma plays a key role in setting up and running activities, observing resident engagement, and offering feedback that helps the team continually adapt and improve.
“Sometimes music brings back memories people didn’t even realize they still had,” Paloma says. “They’re smiling, dancing, exercising – and having fun all at once.”
Together, White and Castro create an environment where participation is always a choice and every resident makes their day, their way.
Activities are designed to be flexible and inclusive, allowing residents of all abilities to feel comfortable joining in. Often, it starts small – one class, one conversation – but over time, those moments build confidence, routine and connection.
“We see people come in feeling unsure or isolated,” White says. “Then slowly, you see them open up. They stay for coffee. They try something new. Their personalities shine.”
This February, Bellevue’s recreation calendar is full, reflecting the team’s commitment to keeping energy and engagement high throughout the community. More importantly, it reflects a shared belief that aging should be rich with opportunity, growth, and connection.
To explore life at Bellevue Park Senior Living, access care options, or connect with their supportive team, visit Bellevue Park at 2882 - 272 Street, Aldergrove St or contact them today at 604-329-3664.