Aliya – Lisa’s Mom
Many individuals choose to join a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) to engage in an active retirement lifestyle, enjoying the community’s vibrant social environment with the added security of on-site Assisted Living or Memory Care services available as their needs evolve. These communities typically provide a range of active living options such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, social clubs, and educational workshops, catering to the diverse interests and maintaining the well-being of their residents. This holistic approach ensures residents can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle while having access to increasing levels of care as required.
One day as Lisa was in a meeting, her cousin kept calling her incessantly. She declined the call three times as she was presenting. Finally, when he called a fourth time, she stepped out of the meeting to take the call.
He frantically shared “My mom was just found talking down the street, half dressed. Your mom is not answering her phone, I cannot believe she would leave her sister, she professed to take care of in that condition, and go to one of her village parties…”
Lisa’s temper flared “My mom is taking care of her sister, because her son could be least bothered…” As soon as those words exited her mouth, she knew she had fanned the flames for an all-out war.
Five minutes of yelling and screaming ended with her cousin saying “I am moving my mom to memory care tomorrow, and your mom needs to vacate my premises by then. Do Not bother calling me again!” He then slammed the phone.
Needless to say, Lisa was on the next plane to go help her mom. She reached there at midnight, checked into a hotel. Was at her aunt’s place at 6am.
For the next three hours, she and her mom packed her belongings, and they went back to the hotel.
After, eating brunch in peace. Her mom said “I want to move into the Active Retirement Community of the CCRC that they are moving Aliya into. I don’t want to leave this place, I have made a lot of friends, this is where I was born, this is where my parents are buried, it’s home for sweetheart.”
The CCRC was an emblem of what Lisa thought a retirement community should be, as they entered the guard gate. This active retirement community, with its sprawling lawns and promise of a vibrant, engaged lifestyle, represented a dream fulfilled for her mom as she aged.
Bridget and Dorothy’s Story
Bridget was at work when she received an unexpected call from Phil, her mom Dorothy’s neighbor. “Bridget, your mom’s been feeling very isolated and it’s affecting her health. I think she needs more social interaction.”
Bridget knew Phil was right. Dorothy had been living alone since Bridget’s dad passed away. Despite Bridget’s regular visits, her mom seemed increasingly lonely and withdrawn.
That evening, Bridget visited her mom. “Mom, have you thought about moving to a retirement community? Somewhere vibrant where you can make new friends and stay active?”
Dorothy looked up, surprised. “I’ve considered it, but I wasn’t sure where to start.”
Bridget had done her research and found Sunny Acres Retirement Community, which offered a range of activities and on-site healthcare. The next day, they decided to visit.
Upon arrival, they were greeted by the community manager, Nellie. “Welcome to Sunny Acres! Let me show you around.”
They toured the beautiful grounds, filled with gardens and walking paths. The fitness center, art studio, and communal dining area were bustling with activity.
“We offer daily fitness classes, art workshops, book clubs, and more,” Nellie explained. “Our healthcare team is available 24/7 for any needs.”
Dorothy’s eyes lit up. “This place is wonderful. It feels so alive.”
Bridget asked about the healthcare services. Nellie reassured them, “We provide comprehensive care, from regular check-ups to more intensive medical support if needed.”
Dorothy was convinced. “I’d love to live here.”
Within a week, Dorothy moved into her new apartment at Sunny Acres. She quickly joined the gardening club and started attending yoga classes. Her days were filled with activities, and she looked happier and more relaxed.
One afternoon, Bridget visited and found Dorothy chatting happily with a group of residents. “How’s it going, Mom?”
Dorothy beamed. “I’m so glad you suggested this. I’ve made so many friends and I feel more energetic than I have in years.”
Bridget felt a wave of relief. “That’s wonderful, Mom. I’m so happy for you.”
Sunny Acres had given Dorothy a new lease on life, filled with friendship, activities, and the peace of knowing she had the care she needed.
Kate and Evelyn’s Story
Kate was cooking dinner when her phone rang. It was Donna, her mom Evelyn’s neighbor. “Kate, your mom has been looking very lonely and it’s worrying me. She needs more social interaction.”
Kate knew Donna was right. Her mom, Evelyn, had been struggling since her husband passed away. Despite Kate’s frequent visits, her mom seemed increasingly isolated.
The next day, Kate visited her mom. “Mom, have you thought about moving to a retirement community? A place where you can stay active and make new friends?”
Evelyn looked thoughtful. “I’ve been considering it. Do you know any good places?”
Kate had found Green Meadows Retirement Village, known for its vibrant community and excellent care. They decided to visit.
They were welcomed by the community manager, Eli. “Welcome to Green Meadows! Let me show you around.”
The village was beautiful, with well-kept gardens and walking paths. They toured the fitness center, craft room, and library, all filled with residents engaged in various activities.
“We offer a range of activities, from fitness classes to arts and crafts, and even music sessions,” Eli explained. “We also have a full healthcare team on-site.”
Evelyn smiled. “This place is wonderful.”
Kate asked about the medical facilities. Eli assured them, “We have 24/7 medical support and various levels of care depending on residents’ needs.”
Evelyn felt at ease. “I’d like to move here.”
Within a week, Evelyn moved into her new apartment at Green Meadows. She joined the knitting club and started attending tai chi classes. Her days became filled with joy and new friendships.
One evening, Kate visited and saw Evelyn laughing with a group of residents. “How are you, Mom?”
Evelyn’s face was bright with happiness. “I love it here, Kate. I’ve met so many wonderful people, and there’s always something to do.”
Kate felt a sense of relief. “I’m so glad, Mom.”
Green Meadows had transformed Evelyn’s life, giving her a sense of community and the comfort of knowing she had the care she needed.