(May 12, 2025) – Angela Rocco, Center Manager at Elderhaus PACE, recently completed the LeadingAge North Carolina Leadership Academy program with a compassionate project: the Cozy Cottage, a low sensory room designed to support participants with specific medical and behavioral needs.
During her time in the program Angela identified a growing need among participants – especially those living with dementia, traumatic brain injuries, or past trauma – for a calming, controlled environment that promotes emotional and behavioral regulation. In response, she led the creation of the Cozy Cottage, a therapeutic space with the PACE day center that offers quiet, peace, and comfort.
This low sensory room is tailored to individuals’ needs, offering reduced lighting, soft sounds, and sensory-friendly tools that help participants feel safe, supported, and able to re-center. The space supports emotional regulation, de-escalation, and sensory relief, empowering individuals to self-regulate and reengage in their day with dignity.
Angela’s Cozy Cottage project is more than just a quiet space – it’s a reflection of a person-centered care and proactive, inclusive values at the heart of Elderhaus. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the Leadership Academy; turning insight into meaningful action that makes a difference in the lives of others.
Leadership Academy
LeadingAge North Carolina Leadership Academy is a year-long program designed to develop statewide aging services leaders. The program provides a challenging and engaging learning environment that enhances the leadership capacity of aging services professionals so they are better equipped to serve the field.
The program embraces five core ideas: leadership and self-reflection, advocacy, partnerships and collaborations, innovation and change, and work life integration.
*In the photo, Angela (center) is surrounded by (l-r) Glen Berkel, EveryAge senior director of hospitality; Lee Syria, EveryAge president and CEO; Ruth Finch, executive director of Elderhaus; and Aimee Reimann, EveryAge chief operating officer.