Associate Close-Up: Ian Scheer, Director of Tapestries®

We recently sat down with Ian Scheer, Director of Memory Support Services at Collingswood, to learn more about him and his passion for memory care and services. These are his words:

What is your name and position?

Ian Scheer, Director of Tapestries® Memory Care.

 

What do you like best about working for United Methodist Communities?

I feel that I really belong to a team all working toward the same goal.

 

What makes United Methodist Communities unique?

I actually feel that UMC is a community for both residents and associates.

 

What does “Abundant Life” mean to you?

To try to make sure that the residents feel fulfilled in their lives.

 

What have you learned from working at UMC?

Before working at UMC, I was primarily in long-term care and subacute rehab. Since working for UMC, I have learned a great deal regarding assisted living.

 

What has been your career progression at UMC?

I started out at Bristol Glen as the Assisted Living Social Worker but transferred to Collingswood and became the Tapestries Director.

 

Why did you choose senior care and services?

Due to having dementia, my grandmother lived with my mom and me for eight years. I learned a lot from that experience and wanted to share that knowledge along with the skills and expertise I received while getting my Master of Social Work (Rutgers University, Newark), and thereafter.

 

Is there an older adult who had a strong influence on your life?

My mother; she is a strong support in my life.

 

Do you have a prominent memory of your grandmother and/or grandfather?

My grandparents lived in upstate New York. We use to go on hikes in the woods all the time.

 

Where did you grow up? Where else have you lived?

I grew up in Sparta, New Jersey. I lived in Hackettstown while working toward my Bachelor of Social Work at Centenary College. After working for a while, I bought a house in Fredon. Now, I’m living in Philadelphia.

 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy music and going to shows. I go to the movies regularly. I also enjoy playing video games.

 

What are you most grateful for in your life?

I have wonderful, supportive family and friends.