Some new senior communities in metro Atlanta are offering assisted living and memory care amid an array of amenities, including dining.
Costs vary in assisted living communities, depending on the size of the apartment and types of services. According to the Assisted Living Federation of America, residences typically have a month-to-month lease, although a few require long-term agreements.
The Overlook at Cedarcrest, a new assisted living community in Acworth, opened in December and has 36 apartments, said CEO Craig Thomas. It also offers all-inclusive, month-to-month arrangements.
Rachel Causey, 84, was the first resident to move into Overlook. She chatted about the medical assistance, including onsite physical therapy, her one-bedroom, one-bath unit and activities in the community.
Q: Where did you live previously?
A: Savannah. We sold the house and the cars because we can no longer drive. Both my girls insisted that we make a change.
Q: Why did you move in?
A: I'm unable to walk at the moment. I have pain in between the spine and the nerve. I lost use of my hands so I'm having to work with my hands in physical therapy. I walk with a walker. I got to learn to walk. My balance is off. I was falling a lot. But the help here, all the girls here are fantastic that help us. I love every one of them. If you've got to lose your home, this is a good place to be in.
Q: What did you think about how Overlook looked?
A: It's absolutely beautiful. You walk in the door and it looks like a ski lodge. It has a big fireplace and the beams. It's just beautiful, really.
Q: What types of activities are provided for residents?
A: We have organized trips. We went to the Dollar Store. Everybody loves the Dollar Store. Then they have a lot of people — volunteers — come here and do things for us. This guy comes to play the piano, and does it beautifully. This guy plays the guitar and sings. They had a bunch of old ladies to come and dance. Then they had children perform for us, and that was fun.
Q: What did you bring from home?
A: Pictures mainly. I've got a lot of pictures hanging up. Then lamps. I got a bed and a dresser and two desks and two chairs and a bedside table (from stores such as Target). And a little bitty love seat that my husband (who lives with family but comes over daily) goes to sleep on.
Q: What tips do you give seniors needing to move into a place with medical care?
A: Don't cry because it won't do any good. Get everything in order — your will and all the stuff you ought to do anyway.
About the Author
