When it comes to caring for a senior parent, families often face tough questions and emotional decisions. From finding the right assisted living near you to understanding what Alzheimer’s and dementia care involves, the process can feel overwhelming.
In this article, families share their experiences searching for senior care – and the relief, reassurance and renewed peace of mind they found along the way.
Finding connection in independent living
After her husband of 59 years passed away, Rochelle didn’t want to live alone. Friends suggested senior living, and her daughter, Sheila, traveled to North Carolina to help search for options. After taking a tour of Atria Southpoint Walk, they made their decision.
“It was wonderful,” Sheila said. “We knew within 10 minutes this was the place.”
A self-professed social butterfly, Rochelle settled right in. She loved the full calendar of events, friendly neighbors and chef-prepared meals. Sheila was relieved to see her mother gaining back the weight she’d lost after her father passed away.
Adapting care to changing needs
Two years later, Rochelle experienced a fall. Sheila came to visit from Illinois while her mother recuperated. During treatment, doctors noticed a bit of memory loss and diagnosed Rochelle with mild dementia.
“Dementia doesn’t run in our family, so I didn’t know what to do,” said Sheila. “That’s when I started Googling.”
Sheila discovered another Atria community just 10 minutes from her home. Rochelle’s dementia was mild enough for her to make the move to assisted living, with specialized care available in the community’s Life Guidance® memory care neighborhood, if needed.
“It was much like the independent living community Mom came from, so it was a good fit,” said Sheila. “But knowing she had help taking her medications and staff to make sure she was eating was such a relief.”
Support for the whole family
Eventually, Rochelle’s dementia progressed, and she moved to the community’s Life Guidance neighborhood. Sheila said the staff at Atria were there for both of them – every step of the way. The team not only provided compassionate, highly personalized care for Rochelle, but they also helped Sheila understand more about dementia, what to expect and ways to cope with her own feelings – through support groups and phone calls at least twice a week from the community’s Life Guidance Director.
“The regular contact eases my mind,” Sheila added. “I’ve been able to express my own fears and concerns without being dismissed. I can’t tell you how much that matters.
“When you think of all the changes that have happened with my mom, having Atria on our side to guide us has been invaluable. I don’t think people realize how deep the support goes at Atria.”
Staying social, staying safe
Jack gets around. The 89-year-old resident of Atria Oakridge in North Carolina knows every dining room server by name and most of his neighbors, too. He also loves playing the piano during ice cream socials.
“Dad is really outgoing,” said his son, Richard. “He enjoys talking with people, and he’s sharp as a tack. He’s thoroughly enamored with Atria.”
Jack came to Atria after his wife moved into a skilled nursing facility. Richard lives 600 miles away and didn’t want to worry about his father living alone.
“I don’t think it would do him well to be on his own completely. It’s not safe for someone his age,” said Richard. “Since he’s been at Atria, I’m confident he’s in good hands. I never have to worry. That’s priceless to me.
Great care starts with exceptional staff
Martin moved to Atria Sugar Land in Texas four years ago. At 93, he often forgets little things. Fortunately for him, staff find creative ways to help, like leaving sweet notes or hanging his belongings on his walker as a reminder.
“They’ve hired really great people,” said Martin’s daughter, Holly. “I work in education, so I know in any school system you can be in the worst building with great teachers or the best building with bad teachers. It’s all about the people.”
When searching for senior living, Holly and her father explored several communities to find one that was warm and welcoming. The day they toured Atria, Martin’s wife was too sick to join them.
“I told them we’d have one less for lunch, so the staff packed a meal to take with us for my stepmom,” added Holly. “Little things like that speak volumes.”
Knowing her father has help around the clock gives Holly and her siblings comfort. After a hospital stay a few years ago, Martin returned to the community needing additional support. Staff escorted him to meals and checked on him several times throughout the night.
“Just knowing that attention was there lifted a big weight off our shoulders,” said Holly.
She said the frequent communication also puts her mind at ease.
“It’s huge. You want to know what’s going on, and they keep us informed,” Holly said. “It’s clear they really care about residents. And I don’t have to worry.”
Care at Atria
Whether you’re just beginning to explore senior care options or actively searching for assisted living or memory care, it helps to hear from people who’ve been there. They’ve already learned that the right community doesn’t just support the person receiving care – it also brings comfort, connection and peace of mind to the people who love them.
If you’re navigating similar decisions, Atria offers expert guidance and personalized support every step of the way. Find a community near you to learn more.
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