Presbyterian Senior Living | Team Members
Rich Rodriguez, the Fitness Director at Glen Meadows, Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL), embodies the spirit of dedication, innovation, and holistic wellness. Since joining PSL in December 2019, Rich has enriched the lives of residents and team members alike with his personalized approach and passion for health.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Personal Connection
Rich’s journey into the world of fitness and senior living began long before he joined PSL. With a deep-rooted passion for fitness, Rich had always been committed to promoting health and wellness. His career path took a significant turn when he started his own personal training business while also caring for his father-in-law. This experience not only strengthened his expertise in fitness, but also deepened his understanding of the unique needs of the senior population.
When Rich joined Glen Meadows just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was stepping into uncharted territory. However, his commitment to the residents and his adaptability quickly made him an indispensable part of the community. Rich’s love for his job is evident in the connections he has built with the residents. “The stories and the relationships are what make this job special,” Rich shares. “I love working with this population because it’s not just about fitness; it’s about improving their quality of life.”
Personalized Fitness for Every Need
At Glen Meadows, Rich leads a diverse range of fitness programs tailored to the unique needs of each resident. Whether it’s one-on-one personal training sessions or group classes, Rich’s approach is always personalized. He works closely with residents who have been discharged from physical therapy, providing them with the accountability and motivation they need to continue their progress. For others, it’s about preparing for special occasions, like a resident who wanted to look her best for her granddaughter’s wedding.
Fitness classes at Glen Meadows are as varied as they are engaging. From chair yoga and tai chi to drum circles and sound healing, Rich incorporates a holistic approach to wellness. He believes in the power of mind-body connection and frequently uses sound healing or sound bathing techniques to reduce stress and promote relaxation. “Each bowl in sound healing represents a chakra, helping to reduce the sympathetic response and promote the parasympathetic response,” Rich explains. This focus on holistic wellness is a cornerstone of his fitness philosophy, ensuring that residents not only stay physically active but also find mental and emotional balance.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant changes at Glen Meadows, but Rich’s leadership and the strong sense of community among the team members and residents made all the difference. “We realized that we’re in a symbiotic relationship, where one can’t exist without the other,” Rich reflects. Despite the serious nature of healthcare, the team at Glen Meadows strives to make each day fun and different, ensuring that both residents and staff remain positive and engaged.
Rich’s creativity and sense of fun are evident in the community’s activities. One example is the idea of a wheelchair relay race around the health center, a multi-department effort that was spearheaded by the community life and therapy team. “We decided to make it a relay race with one team going at a time, judging the winners based on who has the best time,” Rich recalls. This competitive yet inclusive spirit is a hallmark of the Glen Meadows community.
A Flexible and Supportive Work Environment
For Rich, one of the most rewarding aspects of his job is the flexibility it offers. As someone who loves to travel, Rich appreciates the support he receives from his team, who are always ready to step in when needed. This flexibility allows Rich to maintain a healthy work-life balance, something he values greatly.
Residents also stay connected with Rich, even when he’s on vacation, often texting him for updates and pictures. One resident shared a great hotel in Bali she had visited years prior. He was able to visit the same hotel and share pictures with her from halfway across the world. This level of connection speaks volumes about the relationships he has built within the community.
Looking Ahead: Trends and Innovations in Senior Fitness
Rich is not one to rest on his laurels. He is constantly looking ahead, researching trends in senior living fitness and health. Glen Meadows, with its historical roots and limited space for expansion, requires innovative solutions to meet the needs of a new generation of residents.
“We’re seeing more residents who want to live and age with a purpose,” Rich notes. “It’s not about retiring; it’s about finding their third or fourth career.” This shift in mindset is something Rich embraces, working to create programs and initiatives that support this new wave of purposeful aging.
A Leader Recognized and Celebrated
Rich’s contributions to Glen Meadows and PSL have not gone unnoticed. Thanks to the support of leaders who embrace individuality and strengths, Rich was nominated for and won the Heroes Award through LeadingAge Maryland, a testament to his impact on the community.
As the Fitness Director at Glen Meadows, Rich Rodriguez continues to lead with passion, creativity, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those he serves. His holistic approach to wellness, coupled with his strong connections with residents and team members, makes him an invaluable asset to the PSL community.
