by Matt Perry, Freelance Writer, California Health Report
As Fred Olson’s body is wheeled out of AgeSong, the senior community’s founder Nader Shabahangi is offered a basket with red and white flower petals. Shabahangi solemnly sprinkles the colorful petals on the white sheet that covers Olson’s body. When the San Francisco County medical examiner’s van drives off, Shabahangi steps inside the brightly lit lobby of the Hayes Valley residence for an impromptu remembrance. As staff members hug residents, Olson’s generosity and unique personality are recalled fondly – especially his pink wallet. A memorial service is scheduled two days later. Shabahangi’s eyes well up with tears, clearly affected by Olson’s passing.
While other senior living communities may hide the reality of death from residents by shuttling a body quietly out a side door, Olson’s passing codifies the AgeSong philosophy: Shatter current cultural attitudes about older adults by embracing every aspect of the aging process, including bodily decay and mental decline. Essential behavior for all AgeSong staff: treat residents as society’s wise elders – with respect and compassion. CLICK HERE TO VIEW ENTIRE ARTICLE .
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AgeSong Assisted Living and Elder Communities: Locations throughout the Bay Area, including San Francisco and the East Bay: San Francisco-Hayes Valley • San Francisco-Laguna Grove • Oakland-Lake Merritt • Oakland-Lakeside Park • Emeryville-Bayside Park • Castro Valley-OakCreek
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