At Canton Regency Senior Living, creating meaningful days for our residents is a team effort. Carrie Kirkbride, our Lifestyle Coordinator with Aegis Therapies, brings heart, energy, and creativity to everything she does.
A Journey Rooted in Care
Carrie brings over 15 years of experience in healthcare and wellness to role as Lifestyle Coordinator at Canton Regency. She began her career in Cosmetology, followed by becoming a Licensed Nurse Aide. But it wasn’t until a coworker suggested she explore activities programming that she found her true calling.
“I’ve always been social and detail-oriented,” Carrie says. “When I found the lifestyle side of senior care, I absolutely fell in love with it. It gave me the opportunity to connect on a deeper level with residents, to laugh with them, to learn about their lives, and to make each day something to look forward to.”
Promoting Senior Independence
Through Canton Regency’s partnership with Aegis Therapies, Carrie collaborates with therapists to create programs that enhance residents’ mobility, independence, and overall well-being. With her experience as a State Tested Nursing Assistant, she brings valuable insight and hands-on knowledge to support each resident’s journey toward greater independence.
“I love that we can work together to not only keep residents moving, but to support their emotional and mental wellness too,” Carrie says. “It’s a full-circle approach to care.”
Wellness Beyond Exercise
Wellness at Canton Regency extends beyond exercise. Residents are able to attend spiritual programs, such as church services and aromatherapy, along with emotional support through social outings and calming sensory activities, like manicures.
One of Carrie’s favorite life enrichment events was Mom Prom. Where residents took photos in front of a Mom Prom backdrop, a happy hour, and enjoyed decorated chocolate-covered pretzel rods from a local shop.
Personalized Activities
Carrie plans several activity calendars tailored for both Independent Living and Assisted Living residents. She creates a variety of activities from ice cream socials, manicure days, or men’s gatherings at the bar, each program is designed with the unique preferences and abilities of each group in mind.
She also values feedback, her door is always open and occasionally runs surveys, and she often has conversations with residents, constantly adjusting based on their interests.
“I want them to feel heard,” she says. “And when someone new moves in, our Marketing & Sales team provide a questionnaire so we learn all about them and their hobbies, background, even if they’re a veteran, so we can welcome them with programs that matter to them.”
Always Thinking Ahead
Carrie’s life outside of work, as a busy mom who loves the outdoors, inspires her planning at Canton Regency. Often traveling around the community with her children, exploring the zoo or attending a sports event, she’s constantly thinking about how those experiences could translate into enjoyable and accessible outings for residents.
“If I’m checking out a new place with my kids, I’m also thinking: Is it wheelchair friendly? Is it easy to navigate? How long does it take to get through?” she shares. “That way, I know how to plan it for my residents.”
The Heart of It All
At the end of the day, what motivates Carrie is simple, helping residents feel cared for and creating opportunities for joy.
“I just want them to have nice days,” she says. “They shouldn’t have to worry about what’s for dinner or whether their family is coming. I’m here for them—to bring smiles, support, and a little bit of fun.”
To learn more about Canton Regency Senior Living, call 330-477-7664 or visit www.cantonregency.com. Our leasing professionals are happy to provide a free consultation, schedule a tour, and answer any questions you may have.
