This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 223rd installment visiting with Leslie McInturff, administrator with MorningView Village Senior Living. As a not-for-profit senior living community, its goal is to serve the senior community in Blount County with dedication and compassion. It believes in creating a supportive, trusted and enriching environment where our residents can thrive, feel valued, and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Describe what your business does. At MorningView Village, we are dedicated to serving the senior community in Blount County with heartfelt care and support. We offer a range of services to meet the diverse needs of our residents, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Secure Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, and Therapy services. We strive to help senior live their best life.
How did you get started? Getting started in the senior living community stems from my deep passion for improving the lives of others. I, like many people, entered this field because of personal experiences with family members combined with a strong desire to make a positive impact in my community.
For me, my journey with MorningView Village began after college with a commitment to providing high-quality care and creating a supportive environment where seniors can thrive. I was lucky to join an organization that recognized the growing need for compassionate and comprehensive senior care in Blount County and set out to build a community that prioritizes the well-being and independence of its residents.
What is your background? I gained the background and skills necessary to work in the senior living community business through my education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and extensive on-the-job experience. My studies provided a solid foundation in healthcare management, gerontology, and business administration. Additionally, hands-on experiences and internships allowed me to develop practical skills and a deep understanding of the needs of seniors. Working directly in the field has been invaluable in honing my ability to provide compassionate and effective care.
Describe your customers. Our customers are retired individuals who value their independence but also seek peace of mind and daily care. At MorningView Village, we provide a supportive environment where seniors can maintain their autonomy while benefiting from personalized care and services. Our community is designed to offer comfort, security, and a sense of belonging, ensuring that our residents can enjoy their retirement years with confidence and ease.
Independent Living residents enjoy a maintenance-free home with no long-term lease, mortgage, or property tax. Our independent living residents feel safe living in a more secure community with nursing on site for emergencies.
Assisted Living is a safe, welcoming place for seniors who don’t require full-time nursing care but need help with daily tasks such as medication management, dressing, or bathing.
The Memory Care neighborhood at MorningView Village Senior Community is a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment designed to accommodate people with varying degrees of memory loss.
What are three things you knew when you started? Understanding Residents’ Needs: Knowing the diverse and specific needs of the residents can help tailor care and services more effectively. Each resident has unique preferences and requirements, and understanding these from the start can enhance their experience.
Navigating Regulations: Familiarity with the legal and regulatory landscape governing senior care is crucial. This knowledge ensures compliance and helps avoid potential pitfalls, making operations smoother and more efficient.
Importance of Community Engagement: Building strong relationships with residents, their families, and the broader community is vital. Engaging with the community fosters trust, creates a supportive environment, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents
What do you enjoy most about working here? Working at MorningView Village Senior Community is incredibly rewarding for several reasons:
Making a Difference: It’s fulfilling to know that our efforts directly improve the lives of seniors, providing them with comfort, care, and a sense of community.
Building Relationships: Forming meaningful connections with residents and their families is a highlight. These relationships create a supportive and warm environment that feels like home.
Continuous Learning: Every day brings me new experiences and opportunities to learn. Whether it’s understanding residents’ unique needs or staying updated with the latest in senior care, there’s always room for me to grow and for personal improvement.