Elk Run Assisted Living is nestled in a mountain town in Evergreen, Colorado—a community of caring and sharing friends and neighbors. When a beloved resident transitioned to hospice, the Elk Run staff made that transition with her.

Hospice care focuses on the quality of life for people experiencing an advanced, life-limiting illness and it is our honor to share this journey with our resident. When she expressed sadness that she could no longer travel to Florida, we brought Florida to her. 

An Immersive Experience

Our team created an immersive experience for our hospice resident and others at Elk Run. The experience included boarding passes to board a makeshift airplane destined for Miami, Florida.

In addition, staff dressed as flight attendants, performed pre- and post-flight announcements and walked through the aisles serving alcohol-free “Mai Tai’s,” “Margaritas,” and pretzels served in cups and bags with an “Elk Run Airlines” logo.

Residents enjoyed complimentary airline snacks during their flight while viewing beautiful aerial footage of Florida on a big screen television. Upon “arrival” in “sunny” Florida, they were greeted with the sounds of Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. Staff provided brightly colored sunglasses and served key lime popsicles while surrounded by flamingo decor, sand, swimming pools, and the aroma of oranges. It was a successful trip, and we look forward to our next destination.

We are grateful to all those who support Elk Run, enabling us to foster fullness of life for all those we serve.