Memory care that keeps the focus on a higher quality of life for residents
By Mary Malik
There’s nothing like the feeling of being at peace with your decisions, especially when those decisions involve the health and welfare of loved ones.
And “peace” was the word used most often by residents and families of Symphony at Mentor when asked about the care people receive at the well-respected memory care community.
“Dad has been living here for eight months,” says Rob, whose father, Anthony, is a resident. “After suffering a fall, dad was in a rehab facility and was unable to return home. He needed more help and supervision to avoid future falls.”
Rob says that the caring and compassionate staff members were a large part of the family’s decision. The peace of mind, knowing that Anthony would be well taken care of and closely monitored, was critical. The extras Symphony at Mentor offers also played a big role.
“We were so impressed with the staff here,” says Shirley, Anthony’s wife.
“Everyone is so courteous and respectful of all of the residents and the families. It’s not an easy situation for anyone involved, and yet the caregivers are so patient and kind. It’s a real comfort for all of us knowing Anthony is happy and safe.”
A memory care facility only, staff members at Symphony at Mentor have the ability to focus all of their attention on the security and well-being of the residents. Every aspect of the day, from activities and meals to outings and personal care, is centered around the individual needs of each resident.
“Everyone here is dealing with some level of memory loss and the challenges that go along with that,” says Wayne Louis, executive director.
“Some residents are in the early stages, and some are more advanced. Our job is to determine their needs and step in when necessary without taking over completely.”
Symphony at Mentor focuses on each resident’s unique journey and creates moments each day where residents are active and engaged. Activities are designed to address residents’ physical, intellectual and spiritual interests.
“Anthony enjoys the exercise classes, the group rosary sessions and the monthly parties,” says Shirley. “Every party has a theme and families are always included. Daily music and entertainment goes on as well.”
Anthony suggested a trip to the casino, and there are outings to the beach, movies and other area locations to keep residents busy and active.
“Dad was an active guy his entire life,” says Rob. “He misses playing golf but they have a putting green on the grounds that he can take advantage of.”
Creating a home environment while accommodating the changing needs of residents is the goal of the staff at Symphony at Mentor. And there’s no need for residents to adapt to a set schedule.
“Mom started to need a lot of assistance, wasn’t driving anymore and life was becoming difficult for all of us,” says Pat, whose mother, Dorothy, is a resident.
“She needed more help than we could give her.”
Pat and her two sisters, Lisa and Joanne, were taking turns caring for Dorothy between working and caring for their own families.
“This is a very common scenario,” says Wayne.
“And with any kind of memory issues, staying at home, even with constant help, isn’t always the safest option. We make the transition as smooth as possible.”
For Dorothy, the transition to Symphony at Mentor came after she had been the resident of an assisted living community for over five years.
“Mom needed more supervision than assisted living could offer,” says Lisa.
“We were so impressed by the people at Symphony and especially by the longevity of the staff members. The caregivers are not hired through agencies; they are employees of Symphony. They get to know, and truly care about, the residents. Mom is well cared for and we couldn’t be happier.”
Dorothy’s daughters describe her as a “put-together lady” whose appearance has always been important to her. Since becoming a resident at Symphony at Mentor, Dorothy is looking more like her old self and has even stopped needing many of her medications.
“She’s happy and bright eyed again,” says Joanne.
“All of her personal needs are taken care of, she’s eating well and is cared for properly. Between the three of us, someone is here nearly every day at different times. We see Wayne here day and night. And when we have questions or concerns, nothing is ever too much and help is always available.”
Dorothy’s daughters also credit the activities at Symphony at Mentor with keeping Dorothy social and active as her condition advances.
“The activities are appropriate for where the residents are in their journey,” says Lisa.
“Mom never feels frustrated. She’s having fun and smiling and we don’t have that constant, overwhelming worry anymore. We’re at peace with our choice.”
Symphony at Mentor is located at 8155 Mentor Hills Dr. in Mentor. For more information and to schedule a tour, call 440-290-4140 or check the website SymphonyAtMentor.com.