Terri Weckle is SVP, Senior Care Operations for global technology leader PointClickCare. With a background both in technology and health care operations, Weckle shares her perspectives — personal and professional — in this hot seat interview. Read on to learn about what Weckle would change about senior living if given the chance, what she likes to do on the weekends, and how she views people management from her lens in health care tech.
What inspires you?
Never has it been more important to be a supporter of our frontline heroes, which includes senior care professionals. They have committed their lives to making a difference for seniors and are role models and a true inspiration to the next generation of caregivers and leaders.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Interestingly for me, that has changed over the years. I was always a night owl, until my daughters arrived, and my nights got shorter. Now I find my sleep habits have changed and I tend to be up early even on the weekends.
What is your personal mantra?
I’m a believer in dreaming big. “Dream it to be it” is one of my favorite personal mantras, which just reminds me that I control my own destiny and it starts with envisioning the possibilities.
What is your favorite weekend activity?
Spending time with my daughters is my favorite weekend activity. Whether it is taking a hike, shopping, doing chores, or even binge watching a Netflix series, I just really enjoy spending time with them.
What’s your favorite destination worldwide?
Northern Michigan. As a kid my family spent time there both in the summer and winter seasons. The air is just fresher, the water clearer, the sky bigger, and it always seems to ground me.
If you could change one thing about senior living as we know it, what would it be?
As an industry, I wish we did a better job of providing universal access to high-quality, personalized care and services that cater to the diverse needs of the elderly population. This would involve creating a more inclusive and comprehensive system that addresses physical, emotional, and social well-being, creating an environment where seniors can experience a strong sense of community.
What is your most important people management principle?
Never underestimate the power of active listening. Part of being a good manager is actively listening to your team members’ concerns, ideas, and suggestions, to foster trust and demonstrate that everyone’s input is valued.
What’s one thing all senior housing professionals can do to improve the resident experience?
We know that the quality care is most important. I encourage senior housing professionals to do everything they can to improve the resident’s and family’s experience by investing in your frontline caregivers and technology to support them. By shifting focus from administrative processes to a person-centered approach empowered by automation, you will ultimately increasing your operational efficiencies which will gives your frontline caregivers more time to strengthen relationships with residents and their families.
If you were recruiting someone to join the industry for the first time, what are three words you would use to describe the senior living industry?
Evolving, Compassionate & Fulfilling.
Complete the sentence: In 2050, I hope senior living is ….
…Inclusive.
