MONTOUR COUNTY, Pa. — Residents at Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community near Danville had a Valentine's Day celebration with music, food, and some special guests—students from Commonwealth University Bloomsburg's nursing program.
"I like to be around young kids, young people, because they keep you alive," resident Deborah Luke said.
The nursing students surprised the seniors with Valentine's Day cards.
"Just kind of connect, really on a deeper level. Get to know one another, their neighbor, and ultimately provide them with some encouragement and likewise receive encouragement in the process," Dr. Kimberly Delbo said.
It's all part of an initiative called Nurses Lead with HEART, which stands for Humility, Empathy, Authenticity, Resilience, Tenacity.
"Serving humanity is really at the heart of health care, so that's the whole purpose. But it's also to share love. There are so many benefits to shining the light on love," Dr. Delbo said.
The students were excited to be there.
"We get to practice therapeutic communication and our leadership skills in the community, and also get to talk with others and help combat loneliness and depression during Valentine's Day, so it's a really awesome opportunity," Areona McFarlin said.
"It's just really nice to give back. We're at the hospital during the week, and then we get to come here and just spend time and build a connection," Sarah Williams said.
The seniors were happy to see the students, too.
"I like to listen to the kids talk about what they're doing and how different things are from my time and their time," Luke said.
The students are going to several other senior living communities in the area throughout the week.