During her travels through Okinawa, Japan — one of the world’s Blue Zones — Amber discovered something that forever changed the way she views aging and care.
Here, elders aren’t hidden or hurried. They’re honored. Celebrated. Treasured.

In this heartfelt episode of For the Floor, Amber reflects on what it means to see aging not as decline, but as accumulation — of wisdom, stories, and strength. She shares memories from her homestay in Okinawa, where elders gathered daily on a simple bench to visit and laugh, and where photos of ancestors filled every wall in quiet reverence.

You’ll walk away inspired to see aging through a new lens — and to bring that same spirit of respect and wonder to the residents and team members in your own community.

Key themes:

Why elders are considered “treasure” in Okinawa

How cultural reverence for aging changes community life

Simple ways to honor wisdom and longevity in senior living

A mindset shift from labels to legacies


Connect with Amber!

https://www.facebook.com/forthefloorpodcast/

www.linkedin.com/in/amberraelihs

HIPAA & Compliance Notice

I take HIPAA, privacy, and compliance very seriously. Any resident stories or examples shared on For the Floor are de-identified, with no personal information or details that could reveal identity. The thoughts and reflections shared on this podcast are my own and are not specific to, nor do they represent, the organization I currently work for.