Senior living is evolving, especially in how activities are designed and experienced. At Stoneridge Creek, Life Enrichment Director Susan Filice and her team demonstrate that when residents have a voice, they gain connection, purpose, and joy; and that’s what true life enrichment is all about.
In a recent blog published by McKnight’s Senior Living, Susan shared her dynamic activities planning experience, hoping to encourage other life enrichment directors to embrace the idea of co-creating their own on-site programming, which is truly unique at Stoneridge Creek.
She recently sat down and expanded on this, giving readers an inside look at the life enrichment programming that has earned Stoneridge Creek numerous honors. These include being named the 2025 top senior living community in the East Bay by Diablo Magazine and receiving recognition from the International Council on Active Aging for its annual Spirit Awards, which highlight the Active Aging Week programming.
Question & Answer with Susan Filice, Life Enrichment Director at Stoneridge Creek
Question: How is resident-led programming implemented at Stoneridge Creek, and why do you advocate for it?
Answer: Resident-led programs at Stoneridge Creek are more than just events; they reflect the passions, cultures, and experiences of the people living here. When residents contribute ideas or even lead events or fitness programming, it becomes more authentic and impactful. It’s how we move from top-down planning to a model rooted in collaboration.
When residents are collaborators rather than just participants, engagement becomes more authentic, and the experience is more impactful. Today’s older adults want more than bingo – they seek purpose, growth, and connection. Our role is to ensure they have opportunities to find all three ways that feel personal and fulfilling.
Question: Do most of your ideas come from resident input, or do you and your team drive them?
Answer: It’s a blend of both. Some ideas come from research, trends, or even those early-morning creative sparks. But the most powerful programs often come from direct collaboration with residents and my team.
I also love creating “wow” moments—surprises that turn ordinary spaces into something magical. One of my favorite events was a candlelit string quartet concert. We used over 1,200 battery-operated candles, draped the stage with curtains, and had them open slowly as the music started. It was immersive and emotional, and residents still talk about how it made them feel. This is the magic I love to create.
Question: Is there a moment in your career that stands out as a reminder of why this work matters?
Answer: Absolutely. One unforgettable moment happened shortly after the pandemic. We hosted an outdoor celebration called Journey Around the World, where residents shared food, music, and décor from their home countries. A resident approached me, visibly emotional, and told me how meaningful it was to see Italy—her homeland—represented. She said it brought back memories of her childhood and made her feel connected, not just to her heritage but to everyone around her.
Another time, we organized a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge during Active Aging Week. Over 200 residents took part! Many trained for weeks in preparation, and the sense of achievement was incredibly strong. That was in 2021, and they still talk about it. These moments remind me that our work is about creating purpose, not just filling a calendar.
Question: What types of events are the most popular at Stoneridge Creek?
Answer: Hands down, it’s the events that feel personal, social, and immersive. Live music, such as our outdoor summer concert series, draws big crowds. So do creative workshops and storytelling events, especially when residents take part in designing them.
Engagement skyrockets when programs speak to residents’ identities or create a shared emotional experience. A great example of this was a collaboration of multiple resident clubs featuring skits, dances, songs, and storytelling to celebrate Spring. The pride they took in organizing this event, practicing for hours, and overcoming nerves led to a beautiful program for more than 250 neighbors.
Question: What’s your vision for the future of Life Enrichment programming at Stoneridge Creek?
Answer: My vision for the future of senior living activities is rooted in the belief that we should never accept the status quo. We are only limited by our imagination.
Every older adult brings a lifetime of knowledge, talent, and stories. Our job is to celebrate and leverage that. I believe the future lies in programs that blend wellness, creativity, and collaboration—where residents feel seen, valued, and inspired.
Resident Empowerment is the Heart of Engagement at Stoneridge Creek
At Stoneridge Creek, residents have come to expect more from their retirement, enjoying hundreds of monthly life enrichment and fitness activities that team members – like Susan – help plan. You might find yourself asking, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
From resident-led events and cultural celebrations to wellness programs and creative workshops, we believe in empowering older adults to live with purpose, joy, and community.
Are you ready to discover what life could be like here in Pleasanton? Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience our life enrichment programs firsthand.
