Music Fills Senior Living Community

By Maringi Lloyd

Debe Christnacht, recent hire as Activity Director for Bridgeport Place Retirement and Assisted Living, aims to bring as much music to the retirement and assisted living community as possible. Most mornings one can hear Christnacht and the residents singing at the end of the exercise program, “God Bless America.” Also hosting musicians, planning sing-a-longs, and directing a bell choir all contribute to a senior living community filled with music.

Christnacht says “I’m very happy to be at Bridgeport Place! This is a wonderful place to be. The residents are receptive and eager for new ideas and programs. Every day here is just fun!”

Christnacht comes to Bridgeport Place with a solid background in music, she had been involved with early childhood music education and 15 years with Tacoma General Hospital as a Parent Educator. As a Parent Educator, Christnacht developed and materialized a music class for the unborn child called “Pregnant Preludes” for relaxation, bonding and communicating with the baby. Christnacht received a B.A. in Music from the University of Puget Sound. She also holds a Certificate in Gerontology from the University of Washington, a Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) exercise instructor,

Washington State Certified Professional Guardian, Nationally Certified Activity Professional, and performs with the Tacoma Concert Band.

Although Christnacht is well equipped for her new role, she has an additional six pound ‘helper’ named Gabe. Christnacht’s hypoallergenic toy poodle is trained and registered as a pet assisted therapy dog. Together they get the job done!

At Bridgeport Place the goal of the activity department is to help residents keep their minds, bodies and spirits in motion and engaged through purposefully designed events and adventures. It’s not all music, Christnacht plans a variety of activities including shopping trips, exercise, themed tea parties, guest speakers, knitting group, crafts, scenic drives, bingo, black jack, cooking, Sunshine Group, and more!

Christnacht is always solicitous about residents’ welfare and passions. This along with her formal training, work and life experiences make her a welcomed asset to Bridgeport Place’s staff team.
Bridgeport Place Retirement and Assisted Living, located at 5250 Bridgeport Way W, University Place, is locally owned and operated by Soundcare, Inc., with corporate offices in University Place. For a tour and/or more information call (253) 565-1960 or visit on Facebook.