Ardenwoods honors nonagenarian class of 2025

     Ardenwoods celebrated residents in their 90s last week with the annual Nonagenarian Luncheon. Residents enjoyed a special meal, a cello performance and socializing with the members of this special group.

     “They always go above and beyond with the luncheon,” said Anna Echter, a five-time nonagenarian luncheon attendee. “I really look forward to it each year.”

     When Anna moved to Ardenwoods 10 years ago, she did not anticipate living at Ardenwoods for such a span of time.

     “It’s hard for me to find the right words to tell you what this luncheon means to me. I am proud that I can attend this event and be so involved with the resident community,” she said. “I look forward to seeing the other residents and the entertainment each year.”

     This year, 23 residents attended the luncheon and were invited to share words of wisdom to honor this year’s theme, “The Garden of Wisdom”. Staff incorporated these “pearls of wisdom” into the table décor and displayed them on the in-house cable television channel, Channel 900, the following weekend.

     This year’s main entrée was surf and turf, consisting of beef and shrimp, served with a side salad, broccoli, carrots and rolls. For dessert, the kitchen served a delicious three-layered chocolate cake.  

     “The kitchen always goes above and beyond with the food. It’s always so good and different each year,” said Anna. “The salad was so pretty that I didn’t want to eat it! And the chocolate cake is the best I’ve ever eaten.

     Tables were beautifully decorated with pumpkins, pinecones, vines and the collection of words that fellow nonagenarians shared.

     This year’s nonagenarian class mingled while enjoying their meal — sharing stories from their past 90-plus years. Then, a celloist performed a lovely rendition of classical music.

     Incorporating the “garden” theme, attendees were gifted with a small bouquet to continue to add cheer to their day.

     “Everything was just a treat,” said Anna. “I feel like a part of a big family at Ardenwoods. In addition to everyday care, events like these make me feel very appreciated. I love how the staff treats us, no matter the circumstance.”

     Ardenwoods is grateful for the chance to honor these one-of-a-kind residents each year and looks forward to celebrating our next class of nonagenarians in 2026.