From TikTok to travelogues: A new era of assisted living at GreenFields of Geneva
When people think of assisted living, they often picture something slow-paced and sedate. Tara Wilczak of St. Charles is determined to flip that narrative on its head.
As the Lifestyles Lead in Assisted Living at GreenFields of Geneva senior living community, Tara is bringing a fresh, energetic perspective to what life in assisted living can — and should — look like. With a love for seniors and a passion for creativity, she’s curating programs that are anything but ordinary, dedicated to proving that assisted living can be vibrant, stimulating, and above all, joyful.
Tara’s journey with GreenFields began in an unexpected way. While studying to become a nurse, she took a job as a temperature screener during the COVID-19 pandemic. Occasionally, she was pulled in to help with resident programming — and she was hooked.
She ultimately decided to change directions to pursue a career in enhancing lifestyles for seniors. When she accepted the position of Lifestyles Lead, she said, “I jumped right in, I realized how much I loved it. I got to bring joy to people, be creative, and connect on a deeper level.”
That creative spirit is now the heartbeat of GreenFields’ programming. Tara describes herself as someone who has always loved art and problem-solving. “If there’s something the residents don’t like, I pivot and try piecing it together into something else,” she explains. “It’s about giving them options and making their days feel meaningful.”
And options, they have. With more than 20 programs offered each week, Tara ensures there’s something for everyone — but never so much that residents have to choose between activities. Whether it’s a read-aloud book club featuring thrilling mysteries, Fun with Food sessions inspired by TikTok and Pinterest, or immersive cultural travelogues with themed cuisine, Tara blends fun with cognitive stimulation.
One of her favorite programs featured a live Italian singer during an Italian-themed dinner, combining music, food, and memories. “Jeopardy is always a hit,” she adds. “We recently made whipped instant coffee just like the TikTok trend. The residents thought it random and hilarious.”
There’s also a strong social component. Residents attend biweekly social hours, belong to clubs like the men’s group (led by a male team member), and enjoy interactive experiences like chef demos and wine pairings. “We have billiards and brews, where residents play pool and enjoy beer together,” Tara said. “It’s a lot of fun.”
And it’s not just about play — there’s purpose behind every program. “My goal is to enhance joy but also promote hand-eye coordination and keep their minds sharp,” she said. “We want them to keep learning, keep engaging, and feel proud of what they can do.”
Gardening is one of those pride-filled activities. With a large garden bed on the patio and several smaller ones, residents enjoy planting, weeding, and watering while sipping iced tea and listening to music. “They take so much pride in the gardens,” she said.
For Tara, connection is key. She learns the residents’ favorite colors, their drink preferences, and the names of their children and grandchildren. And the familiarity goes both ways. “I feel like I have 47 grandparents,” she said. “They treat me like family. Actually, they sometimes treat me like I’m 16, rather than 24, and they give me lots of advice.”
That deep bond is something she cherishes — and protects. “The families depend on us to make each day special for their loved ones. I take that responsibility seriously. It’s a high honor.”
Tara’s mission is bigger than just scheduling great events; she wants to rewrite the story people tell about assisted living. “People think assisted living means your life slows down, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” she said. “Our residents are still living full, beautiful lives. They’re still exploring, learning, laughing. They’re living their best lives. Just with a little bit of extra support.”
She added, “We laugh every day. We share stories. We drink wine. We learn new things together. Life continues in ways that are meaningful, exciting, emotional, and fun.”
Tara Wilczak isn’t just planning activities — she’s building a vibrant community, dissolving outdated stigmas, and making sure every resident at GreenFields feels like they’re living, not just existing. “I want them to feel joy each day,” she said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
GreenFields of Geneva
GreenFields of Geneva is a luxury senior living community providing a vibrant retirement lifestyle in an ideal location. GreenFields offers independent living, as well as assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing care. GreenFields of Geneva is owned by Lifespace Communities, a non-profit organization with more than 45 years of experience in senior living. For additional information, call (630) 578-7969 or visit www.GreenFieldsGeneva.org.