At Generations Senior Living, families are caring for families, it’s in their roots
By Patricia Nugent
The residents and staff at Generations Senior Living, with locations in Berea and Strongsville, are re-emerging from the pandemic restrictions and getting back to normal.
As of Friday, June 18, Governor Mike DeWine removed regulations regarding nursing homes and assisted living facilities. This allows residents to have more than two visitors and there are no longer any scheduling requirements. Residents can once again enjoy a wide variety of activities and outings, enriching their community experience. Friendships have been renewed through communal dining and informal gatherings. Both Generations locations once again welcome the general public for personalized tours.
“It’s amazing to see so many smiling faces engaging with each other,” says Kimberly Bergmann, regional marketing director for Generations. “Socialization is a key component for seniors to thrive.”
The Family-Owned Difference
Founded by Robert M. Coury more than 50 years ago, Generations lives up to its mission of meeting the physical, emotional and social needs of seniors, and treating people like family. Today, the second generation is manning the helm, and they take a very active role in overseeing operations.
“Not many communities as large-scale as ours are family-operated,” says Kim. “Residents and employees see our owners walking the halls and eating their meals here. That speaks volumes. They are very approachable.”
She notes the family is always going above and beyond to meet the needs of its residents.
Meet the New Community Relations Directors
Joining Kristen Kessler, who is the community relations director at the Strongsville location, Lisa Anthony has recently joined the team as community relations director at the Berea location.
Lisa and Kristen help families navigate the decisions of moving their loved ones into their communities. They also interact with local senior centers, churches, doctors and hospitals to strengthen community relationships.
For Lisa, the job is personal. She dealt with all the twists and turns that families go through with her own mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s. In fact, she worked at the Alzheimer’s Association as well as another senior care community in the area.
Enjoying Life Again
“I believe that last year’s pandemic caused families to postpone the decision to move their loved ones into senior care, which is unfortunate,” says Kim. “Once people move here, they can say goodbye to all the responsibilities of maintaining their homes and start enjoying life again, making new friends and exploring new things.”
The 97 spacious apartments in the Berea location and 76 in the Strongsville location boast kitchens with full-sized appliances, making it easy for residents to create their own meals if they choose. When they prefer a scrumptious homemade dish cooked by someone else, breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the dining room.
Celebrate the Freedom Event
On Thursday, July 29, Generations Senior Living communities and Parkside Villa invite the community to celebrate their new-found freedom at a very special event, from 4:30-6:30 p.m., at Coe Lake Gazebo and Lawn, 105 South Rocky River Drive, in Berea. Listen to the amazing songs of Neil Diamond tribute singer Gary Gomez of the Diamond Project Band. Bring your blanket and lawn chairs (there’s no seating provided) and enjoy a meal of pulled pork, chips and an ice cream bar. Registered guests receive a free meal ticket. Rain date is Tuesday, August 3. Call 440-243-9050 or visit FreedomEvent.eventbrite.com to save a spot before it sells out.
Generations Senior Living Communities are located at 18960 Falling Water Road in Strongsville; and 4 Berea Commons, in downtown Berea. Short-term and respite care are also available. Small pets are welcome. For more information, at Berea, call 440-243-9050 or email lisa@generationshcm.com; in Strongsville, call 440-238-3600 or email kristen@generationshcm.com. Visit GenerationsHCM.com or check out their Facebook page for more information.