From Managing Decline to Unlocking Potential

A New Vision for Aging—A Legacy at Franke Tobey Jones

For generations, society has framed aging through a lens of decline…a gradual slowing down, a narrowing of possibilities, a quiet retreat from the vibrancy of earlier years. Too often, older adults have been “bubble wrapped,” protected rather than empowered, managed rather than challenged.

But that story is changing—and at Franke Tobey Jones, it has been changing for decades.

A Legacy of Seeing Potential

Long before “wellness” became a national movement, Franke Tobey Jones recognized something powerful: aging is not about limitation…it’s about potential. Since 1998, the Senior Wellness Program has been a cornerstone of the campus, grounded in a belief that older adults can continue to grow stronger, more engaged, and more fulfilled at every stage of life.

That vision expanded in 2004 with the opening of the 6,000-square-foot MJ Wicks Family Wellness Center—an innovative space that quickly became a hub of energy, vitality, and connection. Today, it remains a place where residents—and community members age 55 and better—discover what they can do, not what they can’t.

Participants consistently share rave reviews, not only for the wide range of exercise classes and personal training opportunities, but for something even more meaningful: a staff with a “magical ability” to make exercise fun, engaging, and deeply personal.

Shifting the Narrative

This philosophy aligns with a growing body of research in gerontology and guidance from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, all pointing to the same truth: physical activity, social connection, and purposeful engagement are essential to healthy aging.

At Franke Tobey Jones, this isn’t new…it’s foundational.

Building Strength, Confidence, and Independence

Rather than focusing on decline, the program is intentionally designed to build capability through four essential types of training:

• Strength training to increase independence and confidence
• Flexibility training to improve mobility and range of motion
• Cardiovascular training to support heart and lung health
• Balance training to enhance stability and reduce the risk of falls

The results go far beyond physical health. Regular participation leads to improved self-esteem, stronger cognitive function, greater emotional well-being, and a deep sense of pride. Just as importantly, it fosters connection because wellness is also about community.

Expanding Wellness: A Holistic Approach

In 2023, Franke Tobey Jones once again led the way by introducing the first Senior Holistic Wellness Program in Pierce County—an innovative expansion that reimagines what wellness can look like.

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease,” says Sarah Doerner, Holistic Wellness Coordinator and the one who created the FTJ Holistic Wellness Program.  “This program embraces that philosophy fully, offering diverse experiences that nurture every dimension of well-being—mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and creative.”

From meditation and mindfulness walks to cultural cuisine, art expression, tea tastings, Tai Chi, and sound healing, participants are invited to explore new interests, discover hidden talents, and engage with life in fresh and meaningful ways.

And the impact is clear:

• “Wellness classes nourish our souls with creativity in a welcoming social setting!” – Resident Mary Anne Fray
• “It has changed my life… Teaching has given me purpose, confidence, and endless inspiration and joy.” – Participant Jean Shorey
• “A wealth of new information and creative opportunities to enrich life experience.” – Resident Kristie Langlow
• These aren’t just classes—they are pathways to purpose.

From Protection to Possibility

What if, instead of asking “How do we manage decline?” we asked, “How do we unlock potential?”

At Franke Tobey Jones, that question has guided decades of innovation.

Here, “pushing” potential doesn’t mean ignoring individual needs—it means encouraging growth, fostering confidence, and creating opportunities for residents to surprise themselves. It means believing that progress doesn’t stop with age.

The Future of Aging Is Here

The truth is, today’s seniors are redefining aging every day. They are working with personal trainers, building strength, exploring creativity, and forming meaningful connections. They are not winding down—they are continuing forward.

And at Franke Tobey Jones, they are doing so in an environment designed to support that journey.

Because when we shift our perspective—from decline to potential—we don’t just change how we care for older adults.

We change what’s possible for their future.

Aging is not the end of the story. At Franke Tobey Jones, it’s where new chapters begin.

For more information contact:

Wellness/Fitness program, Colin Deck at cdeck@franketobeyjones.com or 253-756-6279

Holistic classes and programs, sdoerner@franketobeyjones.com or 253-756-6387.