GAINESVILLE, Mo. (KY3) - A small nursing home in Gainesville has transformed its residents into unlikely social media sensations, earning 2.1 million likes on TikTok while revolutionizing senior care through creative activities.

The Gainesville Health Care Center, located about a mile from the historic town square, has discovered an innovative way to combat resident isolation while providing physical activity. Staff members have created engaging activities like “whack a staff,” where residents playfully hit employees with foam mallets.

Director of Nursing Ashley Thomas and nurse Shanna Snelson developed the TikTok program to address loneliness among residents and give them a sense of purpose.

“Sometimes they feel lonely and like they’re not seen or heard,” Thomas said.

The nursing home

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