On August 2, 2019, my Mom, Frances, gained her wings. She had spent the last 6 years of her life at Lake Forest Park, her last 5 months in Memory Care. I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the Staff. They are all truly phenomenal caregivers. From the receptionist, to the hairdresser to the laundry staff, to housekeeping, to maintenance, to the kitchen staff. They are all just such wonderful, caring people. I have to mention here the extremely kind gesture from the kitchen staff who came to mom's room to see her just before she passed. Mom passed soon after. Just after the Crisis Care nurse called me, she held the phone to Mom's ear and I got to tell her for the last time that I loved her, and my 2 sisters loved her. One half-hour into my drive over to see her, she passed but heard those last words "I Love You". Also, I want to give a big thanks to Ryan, Virginia, and Stephanie who made sure mom was taken to any activities she was able to take part in. Last, but not least, the kind, caring and loving nursing staff who treated Mom as if she was a member of their own family. All the CNA's (sorry I have forgotten names and apologize) are all exceptional people whom I've gotten to know and love. It meant the world to me and my family. Again, thanks to all. I will never forget your kindness to me. It is absolute proof that angels walk among us. I will keep you all in my prayers, and may God bless you abundantly.
Tips For Transitioning to Senior Living Back
Change can often be difficult. Transitioning to a senior living resort can be a daunting task as well as quite emotional and stressful. Many often feel that they are saying goodbye to their life. Changing your mindset to seeing it as another fun adventure can help to motivate you and help ease you into the transition. Living at a senior living resort has actually been a dream come true for Glenbrooke at Palm Bay residents! Our friendly staff is here to assist make the transition an easy and enjoyable one.
Here are a few tips:
- MAKE A MOVING PLAN. Like moving into a new home, organize your items into what possessions you will be taking with you. It is important to consider what items will fit into your new home and which items won’t. Create a schedule backwards from the moving date so it doesn't sneak up on you. Make it a fun event by inviting your family and friends over to help you pack. When the boxes are packed, have the grandchildren have color coded stickers. Red stickers can go on the boxes with kitchen items, blue stickers will be the bathroom items, orange for the living room and so on! If you start early enough, you will notice how nice it is to reminisce while packing. When the family is there you just might find yourself with a whole lot of "Remember when..." stories!
- ASK FOR HELP. Do not be shy about asking and accepting help! Keep in mind that this transition is also affecting your loved ones as they surely have many great memories of the home you raised them in. Let them stay involved and help as much as they can or want to. Moving is a larger task that it appears even for the most organized person. Allow the movers to take the large items. Invite neighbors, family, friends to help you pack up the smaller items. The more the merrier and the quicker the time will go by before you can start unpacking and enjoying your new home and make new friends!
- WELCOME THE COMMUNITY. As you drive into Glenbrooke at Palm Bay you can not help but notice how welcoming it is. Keep in mind that it will only help if you are open to your new community. It is perfectly normal to be nervous, anxious and even a little grumpy as it is no secret that moving can be challenging. Try to take deep breaths and remember that you are about to start a new and exciting journey. Smile, breath and wave!! Glenbrooke at Palm Bay is built so if you want or need your alone time, you can have it but if you want new friends, they are everywhere for you! Enjoy yourself.
You must remind yourself that you deserve the best! You have worked hard all your life and you should have a dream retirement. Glenbrooke at Palm Bay will make sure you are well equipped to enjoy every day!
Happy Transitioning!