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Our Communities That Shine Awards program celebrates senior living communities that use innovative strategies to help residents live with purpose, passion, and joy. Our winner spotlight series highlights one award winner at a time, sharing what makes their community shine.
In this spotlight, we’re featuring Acoya Shea in Scottsdale, Arizona. Hear how their approach to bringing residents, families, and staff closer together won them the Brilliance in Fostering Connections Award.
Key outcomes
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By suggesting activities and encouraging neighbors to join, residents take an active role in building their community.
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Staff use participation patterns and family insights to understand residents’ interests and make more meaningful invitations.
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Centralized calendars, sign-ups, and updates simplify coordination while keeping families involved.
The following Q&A is adapted from Acoya Shea’s Communities That Shine submission.
What does meaningful connection look like at Acoya Shea?
At Acoya Shea, connection is at the heart of everything we do. From independent living to memory care, our goal is to make every resident feel seen, valued, and part of something special.
We see connection in residents getting involved, families feeling informed, and staff having time to spend with the people who live here. Digital calendars, TV displays, and shared photos help keep everyone aware of what’s happening, and they’ve encouraged more participation and conversation throughout the community.
How do you help residents find experiences that feel personal to them?
We pay attention to what each person enjoys. Activity tracking helps us see which programs residents participate in, so we can personally invite them to similar events or adjust our offerings around their interests.
In independent and assisted living, residents appreciate being able to choose outings and classes that fit their schedules and hobbies. In memory care, keeping in touch with families helps us learn more about each resident’s history and preferences.
These exchanges give us a better understanding of each individual so we can continue to help them feel connected.
How are residents taking a more active role in community life?
Residents are doing more than signing up for themselves. They’re encouraging neighbors to join and suggesting new ideas through the portal. We’ve seen residents move from participation to ownership, as residents begin creating and leading their own activities.
Recognition matters, too. Whether we highlight involvement on the calendar or simply acknowledge someone’s contributions, residents appreciate knowing that what they bring to the community is noticed.
There’s pride in being involved and helping make something happen.
What helps families feel like part of the community?
Consistent communication makes a big difference. Families use the portal to see photos, check calendars, and receive timely announcements without having to piece together information from different places.
That’s especially helpful when they’re coordinating visits or transportation, or when they live far away. Family members often tell us how much they appreciate knowing their loved one is active and supported.
What about Acoya Shea makes you the most proud?
Our residents take pride in their involvement, our families feel connected, and our team feels empowered to create personalized, joyful experiences.
Everyone contributes to that. Residents bring ideas and encourage each other. Families share insights and stay involved. Staff turn what they learn into opportunities for connection.
Seeing those relationships grow is what makes Acoya Shea shine.
Looking for more ways to support meaningful engagement? Explore our Living Longer, Better webinars for practical ideas you can bring to your community.
