Who'd a Thunk It?

Mom is happy in her new apartment. She functions independently, although my brother and his family are available on a daily basis. They (mostly my SIL Sandy) are the unseen hands that make her functionality possible, but they are also the ones who have built her confidence and strategized the best ways to bring her along, living on her own, as she has wanted to do for so long. She abhors the very thought of being dependent, and while I know that, I deplore the thought of her having an accident, hurting herself, being alone and in pain. We were in a stand-off on that issue for a long time. That's why the independent living facility, my brother's idea, has worked so well. In exchange for a very reasonable chunk of money, Mom gets a one bedroom apartment with a spacious bath and kitchenette (no range or oven), weekly housekeeping services, three delicious meals a day served in a communal dining room. transportation to shopping and appointments, fun field trips and instant friendships with about a hundred other residents of similar age and circumstances.



The apartment complex is attractive and clean, managed by two young couples who put a lot of energy into making this facility a real home to all the residents.



Mom's unit is on the ground floor, which allows her access to the lovely grounds and an outside patio where she can paint and bird watch through the long, pleasant summer and fall.

Winters here are generally mild, although the city had more snow than usual this year. Mom has her own thermostat so she can set the temperature in her apartment as warm as she likes, which is usually just below sauna level. I love knowing that she is inside, safe and warm, close to family and friends.






Interiors are carpeted and spacious with attractive furnishings and wall hangings. This is the hallway outside Mom's apartment. She gets her exercise walking the hallways, looking at the paintings and other art. She wears a call button in case she has a problem; staff are always around to lend a helping hand.






Mom's apartment is compact with everything she needs. She will add to the furnishings over time, but wants to avoid a cluttered look.






The kitchenette allows her to prepare snacks for herself or her guests. She has no need to cook since breakfast, lunch and dinner are available seven days a week. Pretty cool, huh?