As we age, many of us assume we’ll always be able to move through life, both literally and figuratively, with the same ease we’ve known for decades. Whether it’s walking through town, navigating our homes, or simply getting from the kitchen to the bedroom, we often take mobility for granted until one day it becomes more of a challenge than we expected.
In many personal care settings, the first impression may be that of a quieter, more stationary lifestyle. The sight of walkers, wheelchairs, or residents receiving assistance can suggest that a decline in mobility is inevitable. But at Cribbs Residential Center, a powerful new program challenged that assumption—and delivered promising results.
In April, Wesbury Life Enrichment Director Stacey Hoey and VNA Alliance Executive Director and Administrator Tim Dunn teamed up to launch Wesbury Wellness Warriors, a dynamic six-month initiative focused on enhancing strength, stability, and confidence among residents. Their mission: to prove that no matter what the setting, physical improvements and even transformations are possible.
The program kicked off by dividing participants into four spirited teams: Champions of Change, Resilience Rebels, The Tenacity Team, and The Unstoppable Union. Each team includes sixteen residents led by dedicated staff “Captains.” Through a points-based system, residents earn recognition for everyday achievements such as simply showing up, participating in activities, standing up, and walking throughout the day, all of which contribute to their team’s success.
Each month, VNAA met individually with residents to assess key health indicators, including balance, gait, and strength. The overarching goals of the program include reducing fall risk, increasing endurance, and fostering a greater awareness of how essential movement is to daily well-being.
During the first three months of the program, objective gains in dynamic balance, muscle performance, and gait velocity were achieved by 15 participants. During the same period, exercise class participation has increased by 14.8%.
“I’ve been impressed with the efforts of each participant,” notes Tim. “Healthy aging involves a holistic mixture of activities, interests, and exercise. When these behaviors are coupled together, positive outcomes emerge. The residents of Cribbs accepted the movement challenge put forth by the Warriors Project and are reaping the benefits.“
Throughout the summer, it seemed to be neck and neck in points with the Champions of Change maintaining a lead over the Resilience Rebels, but the Rebels came out on top, earning an impressive 190,067 total points for the challenge. The Champions of Change came in second with a point total of 159,142. Only 2,201 points separate the Unstoppable Union and The Tenacity Team for third and fourth place.
Alvin Landers of the Resilient Rebels took the top individual spot with an impressive 25,948 points, followed by Jane Hutchinson, also of the Resilient Rebels, in second with 18,710 points. All-Stars Anna Buckley, Judy Shay, and Sarah Schwegler rounded out the top five finishers.
Through the 2025 Wesbury Wellness Warriors Challenge, Cribbs residents have shown that with the right support and encouragement, they can continue to grow stronger, stay active, and truly thrive at any age….and we’re excited to keep the momentum going into 2026’s challenge.
See the difference movement, motivation, and community can make. Contact us at www.wesbury.com or call 814-332-9009 to schedule your tour today.
