A difficult decision became wonderfully easy when we found Spring Oaks! From our very first visit we knew this place was different, very different.
My fiancée's Mother was living in Tampa. She's a smart and witty woman, who raised a beautiful daughter! Our path in life includes ensuring Mom is happy and safe. We needed to find a caring and nurturing home closer to us, in Brooksville.
By comparing the facility Mom was leaving and by our own previous combined experiences we knew exactly what to look for and what to expect. The day we were welcomed into Spring Oaks was a day we'll never forget!
First, and foremost, is the incredible group of folks that make up the Spring Oaks family of employees. They embody all of the traits that any care givers should strive to attain. The continuous displays of sympathy and attention we witness are genuine and sincere. This includes not just the care staff but also the administrative and ancillary staff.
To say the staff of Spring Oaks loves their residents is a huge understatement!
Mom absolutely LOVES her new home and her new friends. We love that she is not just sleeping the day away or taking up space in a corner. Every day there are a variety of planned activities to keep the residents moving, thinking and laughing. With a piano in the main lobby, we never know who might take up tickling the ivories! As the music begins, the crowd grows and the voices lift in harmony!
We LOVE singing along.
Mom's favorite activity is Bingo!, of which she brags about her winning prowess.
Another point I must discuss? The food. Not what you'd expect for an 'institutional' setting. The residents enjoy their meals in an informal dining room, seated at a table with three of their friends. The kitchen prepares a diverse variety of cuisine, including daily soups, main dishes and desserts. On holidays they prepare traditional fare, too. We know because we've tasted some amazing Corned Beef on St Patrick's Day and complete turkey dinners at Thanksgiving, for example.
The staff always invites us to dine if we'd care to, not just for special occasions.
As I am writing this review, I've found it more challenging than usual to translate my thoughts and feelings onto blank screen. Entrusting strangers with a loved one's care can be a daunting task. In so many instances there may be feelings of settling, of helplessness or even guilt.
These are normal reactions typically, as we must walk away, virtually turning our backs on those who may have raised us and were there for us.
BUT, my delightful conundrum is that I/we have NONE of those feelings about Spring Oaks and Mom being a part of that beautiful family.
We, and she, feel the love and care each moment of every day.
WE are wonderfully WOW'd! read more