Crestwood Manor is like an amazing cruise ship that landed in a lovely landscaped field! If you've…read moreconsidered a senior community for yourself or your parents but have haunting images of an "old age home," give them up and visit this beautiful, wonderful community!
My parents moved to Crestwood Manor in 2005, and it was the best move they ever could have made...for themselves, and for our family. From our first tour, where we were greeted warmly by the staff and residents we met, and at every point through the 11+ years they lived there, the services, support, concern and care at Crestwood Manor only got more personal and welcoming. My father initially thought he and Mom couldn't afford living in what felt like such luxury, but a careful review of what was included in the fees, we saw that it was a virtual break-even with living in their house, without the work and worry of a single family home but many social benefits beyond single-home living,
Their first apartment was a beautiful two BR/two bath independent living unit, custom decorated for them before their move. About 8 months after moving in, my mother became critically ill, and only survived to get to the hospital because of the quick work of the nurse and EMTs on premises. After mom's release from the hospital, the fabulous and friendly staff in the Nursing Center Rehab wing cared for Mom physically and emotionally. Every day, Dad was able to walk down the hall to share meals with her...then head off to his swim classes and exercise programs while she received outstanding PT and OT and medical care. The staff even helped us arrange a small graduation party for our son there so mom could participate, and years later during another stay, a special anniversary luncheon with a beautiful surprise cake for her and Dad!
After returning to her apartment, my mother enjoyed 7 more years with a high quality of life because of the care, services, and wonderful friends surrounding her...this is a lively group of residents who enjoy games, shows, luaus, casino nights, happy-hours and more, and that social interaction motivated Mom and gave her many happy days! After her passing, the staff and community surrounded my father and supported him, engaging him in activities and never allowing him to feel alone.
In fact, when my niece wanted a small wedding ceremony with my dad giving her away, the Crestwood Manor staff even transformed a lovely community room into a beautiful chapel for the ceremony, and residents lined the hallway to wish her well! The pictures and memories of that day are so special to all of us.
After three years on his own in his large apartment, and after suffering a broken hip and developing light dementia, Dad spent time in the Rehab wing of the Nursing Center, recovering more quickly and fully than anyone anticipated. He decided to move into a beautiful, large Assisted Living studio apartment adjacent to the Clubhouse so he could still easily meet his friends for meals and activities. Through the process, the staff supported my sister and I as well as my dad, and they made the physical move easy, arranging (and re-arranging!) furniture and hanging pictures exactly as we wanted it all. Dad's aides became like family, caring for him with warmth, tailoring their schedule and activities to his needs, thoroughly communicating with my sister and me, and supporting him in every way possible. We were really all one big family working together to care for Dad, and making sure he was not only safe but happy.
Dad passed away peacefully this spring in his apartment, surrounded by family and supported by Crestwood Manor staff and a hospice team they organized for us. We miss Dad AND the wonderful Crestwood Manor staff, but are so happy to know he and Mom both lived long, joyful final years because of the wonderful facilities and services, and most importantly, the professional and caring staff at Crestwood Manor.
I couldn't recommend Crestwood Manor more highly. Visit! Move! Enjoy!