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Life Enrichment & Creative Arts Therapies

The Life Enrichment team at The Kensington Reston brings energy, creativity, and joy to our residents’ daily lives. Through a diverse range of engaging activities, programs, and therapeutic experiences, they foster meaningful connections, stimulate cognitive and emotional well-being, and encourage self-expression. From art and music therapy to social events and personalized hobbies, our team tailors each experience to match the unique interests and abilities of our residents.

Meet Shamaris Mercado, Life Enrichment Manager at The Kensington White Plains

Shamaris Mercado has been a valued member of The Kensington White Plains team since 2016. She began her journey as a Life Enrichment Assistant while still a college student, seeking a part-time job with little experience in senior living. It was at The Kensington where Shamaris discovered her passion for working with seniors, gaining the skills and knowledge she needed to excel in her role and grow her career.

Over the years, Shamaris has embraced every opportunity to learn and develop professionally. A standout moment in her career was traveling to North Carolina to become PAC (Positive Approach to Care) Certified under the guidance of Dementia Care Expert Teepa Snow. This experience deepened her expertise and further enhanced the care she provides to residents.

As Life Enrichment Manager, Shamaris is dedicated to creating meaningful programs that enrich the lives of residents and bring joy to their days. Her journey at The Kensington is a testament to her hard work, growth, and passion for making a difference.

We are proud to have you as part of our team, Shamaris!

“No matter what the day brings, as long as I’ve made the residents smile, I know I’ve made a difference in their lives.”


Department Deep Dive

The Life Enrichment Department is composed of a dedicated Coordinator and 1-2 skilled Assistants who work collaboratively to design and implement a dynamic life enrichment program. This program is tailored to meet the diverse needs of both assisted living and memory care residents, offering meaningful activities that promote social engagement, mental stimulation, and emotional well-being. Together, the team ensures that every resident experiences a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle within the community.

The Life Enrichment Coordinator shall assist the department director in the development, organization, and coordination of available community and area resources to provide a high quality program of activities in the Assisted Living or Memory Care neighborhoods.  The program will be designed to meet, in accordance with the resident assessment, the interests and the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident.

The Life Enrichment Assistant assists the Life Enrichment Coordinator with the development and delivery of an ongoing program of activities. The program focuses on meeting the interests and the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident in the Assisted Living or Memory Care neighborhoods.