The Java Project

The Java Project was first awarded to LeadingAge Virginia in 2021 through the CMPRP for a two-year to engage 30 Virginia-based nursing homes in structured weekly sessions that allow residents to participate in music, memory sharing, and mentorship visits. LeadingAge Virginia partnered with Java Group Programs to implement this resident-centered program in the cohort of communities throughout the Commonwealth

Goals and Objectives
The goal of the Java Project is to improve the quality of life among residents in nursing homes by implementing the three peer support and mentoring programs. The objectives are to reduce loneliness and social isolation and increase happiness among participating residents through structured interactions. The first cohort of nursing homes completed Java implementation in 2021 – 2023. In July 2024, LeadingAge Virginia received a three-year CMP contract to expand the successful Java Project to 17 additional CMS-certified nursing homes.

Project Outcomes

Among the initial cohort of 30 nursing homes, over 2,000 Java Music, Memory, and Mentorship sessions were held that engaged over 700 residents in social programming. On average, participating residents experienced a 26% reduction social isolation and loneliness, while experiencing a 23% increase in happiness after engaging in Java sessions. Results are pending for the second cohort of 17 nursing homes and will be made available in Fall 2025 following the first year of implementation.