Family Voices

Emeritus at Carriage Inn, Portland, Texas

“There are not enough words to express the gratitude to the staff of Emeritus at Carriage Inn. From the moment we walked inside the unbelievably beautiful setting – my parents felt like they were “‘home."

The caring staff, coupled with all the residents who loved it there, made a very difficult transition for my parents (and me) much easier.

Close friendships were forged by not only my parents, but me as well. My Mother, wheelchair bound, blossomed even beyond our wildest dreams, due to the various activities and filled calendar of events. My Father, severely hearing impaired, still was able to participate in the game activities and most enjoyed the extensive on-site library AND breakfast! He arrived early, and stayed late each morning to enjoy every morsel prepared by the chef and kitchen staff.

For me personally, the benefit of transportation was a big issue due to my work schedule. I could rest assured they were taken care of and always arrived timely to any medical appointments that either of them had. Due to 24-hour staff, I could sleep at night, knowing that all was under control and they were safe and sound in a secure environment.

The maintenance department usually went above and beyond the call of duty, to make all residents comfortable - from a broken air conditioner in July to a burned out light bulb; all you had to do was ask – and it was done.

The staff loved my parents. And they knew me and my son on sight, by name. They always
had time, or more to the point, MADE time for any questions or concerns or just a quick visit.

I suppose the last most valuable service was the fact that this facility offered an age-in-place option. My parents had the opportunity to remain at Carriage Inn until the time came for them to be released from this earthly life and head for Heaven. How fortunate they were -- no nursing facility, no hospital, they were “home” until their last breath. Even then – the staff was not done yet. The administrator and front desk attendant were at my side within moments of the news and the various department staff attended services as their work schedules allowed. Who do you know that does that? How do you thank people for truly making lives richer?

Emeritus at Carriage Inn in Portland, Texas will remain the one great “find” of my lifetime. I was in charge of finding my parents last place of residence, the last place they would call “home” – an overwhelming task for an adult child.

My parents gave me the credit, but all credit goes to the people of Carriage Inn - they made that job easy.

Thank you!
Sincerely,

Emeritus at Woodstock, Woodstock, Georgia

“Employees” is not the proper word to use… “friends” would be a better word to describe the wonderful folks at the Emeritus at Woodstock.”

As I have stated when we first brought Mom to the Emeritus at Woodstock, you and your entire staff welcomed her and us with open arms and a “family” attitude. I personally have witnessed continuous acts of kindness to, not only Mom, but the other residents from your staff and, yes, from other residents. The “family” attitude is a “domino” effect straight from you office.
The professionalism I also have witnessed over the past 2 years has been a testament to the Woodstock community’s “work ethic.” It really made us feel at ease to know Mom was in good hands of the warm and caring employees there. Actually, “employees” is not the proper word to use... “friends” would be a better word to describe the wonderful folks at the Emeritus at Woodstock.
Thank you again for everything and I can assure you that I will recommend Emeritus at Woodstock.

-Robbie T., Daughter of an Emeritus Resident

Emeritus at Atherton Court, Fremont, California

“The management personnel, as well as the caregiving staff at Emeritus at Atherton Court should be commended for their stellar work, and their caring and positive approach to the care of their dementia-afflicted residents.”

The management personnel, as well as the caregiving staff at Emeritus at Atherton Court, Fremont, California, should be commended for their stellar work, and their caring and positive approach to the care of their dementia-afflicted residents. Special commendations go Colleen (marketing), Karishma (Operations), Cherie (Finance), the new Fabulous Chef and her staff, Steve (maintenance) and the wonderful caregivers, Gina, Dina, Claritia, Jorik, Anna, Danny, Priscilla, Whitney (and all others who directly care for our loved ones.) Shay (activities)has also brought great energy and joy to all with her family support groups, entertainment, parties and festive decorations. Residents respond to
these types of activities and their minds are stimulated.

As noted above, Colleen (marketing) and Karishma (operations) are instrumental in the overall positive and energetic atmosphere at Emeritus. They optimize the best in this genre of care. The stand-alone building concept of dementia care at Emeritus at Atherton Court, Fremont, should be the norm throughout the nation. Dementia care should not be an appendage within large Assisted Living complexes. Families do not want their dementia-afflicted loved ones to be an afterthought. The airy and bright layout in Fremont is ideal.

Emeritus at Reno - Reno, Nevada

“During the last five days of Mom’s life, Emeritus staff provided us shoulders to cry on, hugs, meals, encouragement and voices of experience to reassure us. Staff members would walk to Mom’s bed, touch her and gently speak to her then turn to us with tears in their eyes to hug and comfort us. This is family.”

Dear Mr. Cobb:

This is a thank you so big it’s tough to find the words.

My Mom, Phyllis, lived at Emeritus at Reno for nearly two years. She died February 25 from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Her situation, unfortunately, is not uncommon. What is exceptional is how the staff at Emeritus at Reno gifted Mom with dignity, respect and love.

Lisamarie Campbell, Director of Emeritus at Reno, is the epitome of tact, sympathy and purpose. Her gentle nature and caring heart make her a joy to work with and entrust an elderly parent to. Lisa keeps her purpose clear: a commitment to doing the absolute best for each of her residents. The staff Lisa has assembled is fabulous. Daily Mom was loved, fed wonderful meals, clean, engaged in activities and comfortable in an environment where her sweet sense of humor could shine and be appreciated.

During the last five days of Mom’s life, Lisa and the Emeritus staff demonstrated the depth of their commitment to family. Mom quickly moved from being admitted to hospice to “code pink” indicating a rapid deterioration. I, my brother, John, and my daughter, Karen, stayed with Mom through those last five days. During that time, the Emeritus staff provided us shoulders to cry on and hugs, meals, newspapers, encouragement and voices of experience to reassure us. What came in between was astounding: over the five days, staff member after staff member quietly knocked on Mom’s door and asked if they could come in. Invariably, they would walk to Mom’s bed, touch her and gently speak to her then turn to us with tears in their eyes to hug and comfort us. These were the folks who had no direct responsibility for Mom’s care right then, but took a moment in their busy days (and nights) to be with us. This is family.

So thank you to the extended Emeritus family for giving my local Emeritus family the opportunity to do their extraordinary work. They are a wonderful and loving family who live the Emeritus Philosophy: Respect, Community,
Teamwork and Value. Be proud.

Emeritus at Austin Gardens - Lodi, California

“When Mom died, I've never been treated with such respect and dignity. They were there for my family and I and we could feel their love.”

My mother was only at Emeritus at Austin Gardens for 2 months before she died. During that short time, all of the staff demonstrated the utmost care and concern, not just for Mom, but all of our family. They went above and beyond in every way. The patience shown by staff was wonderful. We felt a part of the Emeritus family from the very beginning. The night before Mom died, we were even brought an assortment of rolls and cookies, coffee, and anything else we wanted. When Mom died, I've never been treated with such respect and dignity. They were there for my family and I and we could feel their love. I would name specific names, but every one of the staff that we dealt with were equally professional. Thank you, Austin Gardens, for making my Mom as comfortable as possible throughout her stay.

Emeritus at Canterbury Ridge - Urbana, Illinois

“The people at the Canterbury Ridge community took a huge burden of worry off mom’s family. We know she will be well cared for, safe and happy.”

Today my mother moved into the Emeritus Canterbury Ridge in Urbana, Illinois. She was thrilled -- and so was her family! The facility is terrific and the staff couldn’t have been more accommodating and professional. In particular, we would like to acknowledge Brandy Akers, Sandy Hockman and Lenor Holmes, who spent endless hours explaining the services and programs of the facility -- what and what not to expect. As I’m sure you understand, such a move is often difficult and emotional.

But my mom was overwhelmed at the beauty of the grounds and her one-bedroom apartment which her family outfitted with all new modern furniture.

Canterbury Ridge played an important part in the next chapter of her life.

Please acknowledge the staff mentioned above. I’m sure she will meet and enjoy many other staff and residents to help her transition. The people at the Canterbury Ridge community took a huge burden of worry off mom’s family. We know she will be well cared for, safe and happy.

Emeritus at Pleasant Hills, Little Rock, Arkansas

““The staff is just great! I couldn’t be more pleased with my time here.”

I just wanted to let you all know that I am 80-year-old widow who moved into Pleasant Hills in January of this year. I have been more than pleased with the services provided me here and the staff is so accommodating to try to take care of my every need. Scott Hagerman is a wonderful manager of this facility. He accommodates everyone’s needs at all times and is always on call for all residents. The same goes for Suzanne Moss. The staff is just great! I couldn’t be more pleased with my time here.

Emeritus at Citrus Heights - Citrus Heights, California

“We cannot adequately express how grateful we are for the loving care provided to our mother, Kathleen, over these past three years. You are all angels to us.”

Emeritus at Emerald Hills, Auburn, California

“I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful years my dad (and Mom) had at Emerald Hills. Dad and I leaned on the all the caregivers. You were my “Rock.”

To my Dear Friends at Emerald Hills:

I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful years my dad (and Mom) had at Emerald Hills. They had a great quality of life and my Dad really enjoyed an active, independent and fulfilling lifestyle, both within and outside of the Emerald Hills community.

When Dad’s activities became limited by his lack of mobility in his final weeks, the Emerald Hills staff stepped up to the challenges. Dad and I leaned on the all the caregivers. You were my “Rock” to lean on, even if Dad hit the call button for a sip of Dr. Pepper, forgetting I was there, we could enjoy a good laugh.

My final thoughts are for the Emerald Hills administration staff. Mary Ann was there for anything I needed. Leisha gave me the attention and open ear when I wasn’t sure what to do. Letuya also provided me direction and advice, equipment and whose cheerful children made Dad smile ear to ear. Sharon and Colleen who never could do enough for me. Shirley and Jenny for their assistance and advice. May God Bless All of You

Emeritus at The Palms – Roseville, California

“The Palms has been outstanding and so caring while dealing with our loved one. The whole staff has given the residents there the best quality of life possible.”

First of all, our loved one has been in the Palms memory care facility with advanced Alzheimer's for two years, (total five years at the Palms). She is not an easy patient and her disease has caused her to become very combative with the employees at times. I just have to tell someone that this department at the Palms headed by Kristine Reymont, has been outstanding and so caring while dealing with our loved one, Catherine Cooley. They have gone out of their way to constantly make sure she is comfortable, safe, and looking her best. Kristine has set the tone of personal interaction with the residents that communicates both kindness and respect that they are unique adults, rather than helpless children. At the same time she has a matter- of- fact manner with family members that gives us confidence and helpful direct communication. The residents are treated as human beings and not objects of pity. And finally, the whole staff, Aleshne, Virginia, Olivia, Reina, and all others who work in the department have followed Kristine's example and given the residents there the best quality of life possible. I just wanted to make sure they are recognized as models and leaders in their field. I am happy to be a reference for anybody curious about the quality of care at this facility.

Emeritus at Emerald Hills- Auburn, California

“I've been a resident of Emeritus at Emerald Hills for nearly two years, and the care we receive is really outstanding. We are watched over all the time. The staff members are our friends, and are very loving. The food is great. I can’t imagine a more fun place to live. It's wonderful. Thank you.”

Emeritus at Ocoee – Ocoee, Florida

“We are so pleased and thankful to have found Emeritus at Ocoee. The entire staff is so wonderful.”

We are so pleased and thankful to have found Emeritus at Ocoee. The entire staff at Ocoee -- from director, nurses, caregivers and receptionist -- is so wonderful. My Mother in Law has been there almost a year after having her in another Assisted Living Community for 6 years. The two are "night and day!" We wished we would have moved her before then, as her dementia has worsened and think she would have liked it better when it was not as bad. You can tell everyone who works at Ocoee wants to be there and wants to do what they are doing. The other facility’s staff was always in meetings, and there was no communication, constant turmoil and constant turnover. Everyone at Emeritus is so courteous, caring and friendly. From Kevin the director, Holly, Head of Nursing; Jacque, Bookkeeper; Joy, Nurse; Cheryl, My Mother in Law’s caregiver; Lee Ann, Nurse; and Barbara, the receptionist. Really, the whole staff is just awesome. We are so lucky knowing she is well cared for and they really do care. Everyone is so pleasant and has a smile on their face. It is a breath of fresh air. Thank you.

Hawthorne Inn at Greenville – Greenville, South Carolina

“Eddie Jones the "Chef" at Hawthorne Inn is not only concerned about the food he serves, but the residents as well. He is kind, caring, and considerate of others and the nicest man we have ever met.“

Eddie Jones the "Chef" is not only concerned about the food he serves, but the residents as well. He is kind, caring, and considerate of others and the nicest man we have ever met. Eddie's personality far exceeds the norm. His sincere feelings and care towards everyone, including my mother, meant the world to me and my family. Eddie would go out of his way every day to just check on my mother, chat and put a smile on her face. Eddie is an exceptional human being and he will always have a special place in our hearts.

Thank you Eddie and to all the staff at Hawthorne Inn.

Emeritus at Regency Residence, Margate, Florida

“Our parents are important to us and your staff allows us to sleep at night knowing they are safe.”

I moved my Mother into your Margate facility a few months ago. It was the hardest decision of my life, so far, and the hardest transition for her. Your director, Steve Valentine, helped so very much with the move. His staff at this facility is outstanding as well. I cannot point out anyone in particular so as not to slight anyone. The executive staff to the servers, cleaners and the excellent maintenance staff make me happy for my decision. You have a great leader in Mr. Valentine and his staff is everything that you would hope to have.

Thank you for having people like this in your service that actually bring forth your marketing slogans to real life. Our parents are important to us and your staff allows us to sleep at night knowing they are safe.

Many thanks!

Emeritus at Liberal Springs – Liberal, Kansas

“The staff has certainly been part of our family during these past years and days.”

My parents have been residents of Liberal Springs for the past 5 years. My mother passed away Aug 19, 2012, my father still resides at Liberal Springs. My sister lives in Montana and I live here in Washington.

I want to compliment the staff at Liberal Springs for the care they have provided to my parents. The family atmosphere and genuine compassion that the staff has exhibited has been a comfort to both my sister and myself while we have been miles away from our parents. Susan Ingland, Misti Bohl, Lu Volden and Gentry Campbell have all made special efforts to provide comfort and care during the past weeks as my mother was struggling through her last days. The staff made special efforts to provide the necessary care that our family needed. They have certainly been part of our family during these past years and days.

I just wanted to personally thank all the staff at Liberal Springs for exceptional service.

Emeritus at Oviedo – Oviedo, Florida

“I feel that one reason my father’s transition to Emeritus went so smoothly is due to the great staff.“

This message is to compliment and highly commend the Emeritus Senior Living Facility in Oviedo. I am very fortunate to have placed my father at Emeritus and would like to share my reasons as to why this particular facility is such a special place for senior citizens who need assistance with their daily living.

After visiting several assisted living facilities it was obvious that Emeritus of Oviedo would be a great fit for my father. I met several staff members and they empathized greatly with what I was going through in making the decision for my father. They were patient in answering all of my questions and providing support by letting me know what the facility can provide for my father as well as ideas of how to talk to my dad to make the transition of moving from his home to Emeritus as smooth as possible.

My father has been at Emeritus for almost 5 months now. He likes having staff members to talk with as they come to his room to do certain jobs and check on him, as well as talking to them as he walks in the facility. The staff encourages residents to participate in daily activities that are listed on a monthly calendar. So my dad has gradually joined some of the activities. He wore his Phillies T-shirt and brought tickets from old baseball games he attended, he plays musical instruments at some of the activities, plays bingo (and as he has said “I won, I won!”), watches ballroom dancing lessons, goes to “happy hour” and joins other activities.

My husband and I still spend a great deal of time with my father. However, we have more time for each other and the stress level has lessened since we know that my father is with well trained staff and in a safe, healthy, clean and a very caring environment with activities that he can participate in.

I feel that one reason my father’s transition to Emeritus went so smoothly is due to the great staff. The staff has been very positive and caring which has helped my father to adjust. The staff members are a “team.” They seem to be flexible and can help with different aspects of the facility beyond their individual job titles.
The executive director is a strong conscientious director and is definitely the key to making Emeritus of Oviedo the excellent facility that runs so smoothly. I have found that she is a very compassionate and positive person. She does what is needed to manage the facility and truly cares about the staff, residents and families. She is very dedicated in doing the best for everyone at Emeritus. She makes it a point to know all the residents and support them to continue to improve their lifestyles. She monitors her staff and the facility and makes changes as she feels would be in the best interest to improving the residents’ daily living and progress. She is a very involved director who seems to be so flexible and willing to be involved in all aspects of the workings of the facility. She encourages residents to participate in the many activities that are provided. And most of all I feel that she has open communication with residents, staff and family members. I know that I can go to her about anything.

My father is a very sweet and loving person. I am so fortunate to be able to spend time with him and have him in my life. Even though my dad’s condition continues to gradually deteriorate I feel confident that Emeritus of Oviedo is providing him the best environment in which his needs are being met.

Emeritus at Conway - Orlando, Florida

“Emeritus is lucky to have such talented and dedicated staff.”

I would like to express my gratitude to the nursing and care staff at Emeritus at Conway. Since July 2011, they have helped in every way to assist my mother as her condition declined. Every individual I've encountered has expressed genuine interest in and care for my mother. Since I was unable to visit my mother regularly, the staff served as my eyes and ears for updates on her condition. They have demonstrated great patience and flexibility in working with me to get her the best care possible. Emeritus is lucky to have such talented and dedicated staff.

Emeritus at Lafayette – Lafayette, Louisiana

“Vanessa and Verda are my dream team. I am at Emeritus twice a day, every day, and these two have been my constants. I smile when I walk in the door and see these two lovely people working. I know that my mother will get the love, caring, and attention that she deserves.”

My mother has been a resident at Emeritus for almost four years in the Memory Care area. This letter is on her behalf since she is unable to communicate on her own. We have definitely seen many changes over the years. There are many people that I would like to thank for helping me take care of my mother, but two in particular. They are Vanessa and Verda. I secretly call them my dream team. I am at Emeritus twice a day, every day, and these two have been my constants. I smile when I walk in the door and see these two lovely people working. I know that my mother will get the love, caring, and attention that she deserves when they are there (not that the others don’t do a good job also). They are always smiling and laughing and attempting to engage our families – which, believe me, I know can be an overwhelming job. So the purpose of this letter is to let the “higher up people” know that there are still good things happening and I would just like to thank these two lovely people. I have peace of mind that when I walk out the doors, my mother will be taken care of. Please share this with all who would be interested.

Emeritus at Newnan - Newnan, Georgia

I moved my mother into Emeritus Newnan Independent about a month ago. We are very pleased with the property and the personnel. We had out of town company last week and everyone at the facility was so accommodating! Brandon and Robert have just been great.

Emeritus at Hazel Creek - Orangevale, California

I am happy to take the time to praise the professional and healthy way your Crew handled the “virus” quarantine at Emeritus at Hazel Creek for the last 3 weeks.

Your Team reacted swiftly and rapidly to the epidemic to make sure it is controlled and contained as soon as possible. All residents were asked to stay in their room. My Mom expressed that though they were restricted to their room; she felt the personnel did as much as they possibly could to make them feel as comfortable though the circumstances.

The issue is not just the “virus” but how Management reacted to the crisis. I would like to commend how they handled the situation. With calm and poise they directed and instructed all the residents of the step necessary to be taken in order to minimize spread of the virus. It was a lot of work to have to attend each resident individually in their room. Your Crew did that. Mother felt she was very special. Someone was there at all times whenever needed.

Thank you so much for all the Crew and Team at Emeritus/Hazel Creek for an epidemic well contained, an excellent customer service, and most of all your courteous and friendly service.

PS: today is July 1st, 2012 and I still feel the same way. Mother is gone for over 3 weeks now for a treatment away from Emeritus Hazel Creek; but I can’t tell you how anxious she is to come back home to Hazel Creek that she misses so much as well as ALL the very caring and attentive Crew (without any exception).