A Community Within A Community
Friendship Village of South Hills
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Friendship Village of South Hills
Jul 31, 2023
Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area
Beautifully nestled within the majestic hills and lush greenery of Upper St. Clair is a community within a community known as Friendship Village of South Hills, a senior living community. Here the activities are abundant, the friendships are forever, and peace of mind is a common theme among the residents who call Friendship Village of South Hills home. These friendships now carry into assisted living and memory care, the newest additions to the Friendship Village of South Hills community.
Married more than 40 years, John and Jeri Williams describe the path that led them to living at Friendship Village of South Hills as truly unique. Jeri’s father once lived in the skilled nursing suites and she will never forget the exceptional care he received. Jeri and John remember fondly taking Jeri’s father to the train tracks near campus to watch the trains go by. Many years later when John and Jeri made the decision to move to Friendship Village of South Hills, they chose an apartment that overlooks those same train tracks. It brings tears to Jeri’s eye when she speaks about it. John and Jeri observed the construction process of the new addition at the community, consisting of 50 assisted living and 32 memory care apartments, with great hope. John began to see a need for additional care, and they are thankful they can stay at Friendship Village of South Hills, while also receiving the advanced care they need. Shortly after opening, John moved to assisted living and eventually transitioned to memory care. Jeri stayed in their independent living home and continues to visit John every day. The full continuum of care allows Jeri to still enjoy her hobbies, knowing that John is receiving the care he needs. “I don’t see myself living [anywhere else]. I see Friendship Village of South Hills as my family. I am very comfortable here,” explains Jeri. “We [the community and Jeri] were successful together to help John get back to doing things that were automatic. His quality of life has increased due to the number of assigned team members to help him with his daily living activities, as well as all of the activities and socialization.” John added that his favorite part about Friendship Village of South Hills right now is the happy hour.
“We provide peace of mind and a sense of security to our residents and their loved ones because we offer all levels of living,” explains Upper St. Clair native, Jessica Ciancio, director of assisted living and memory care. Executive director Bryan Welty noted, “Many of our residents live in the same geographical region as their adult children with access to our full continuum of care in a luxurious setting.” “Assisted living residents enjoy modern, spacious apartments with an abundance of natural lighting and plenty of common spaces for friendships to blossom. Outdoor courtyards offer an al fresco dining option that overlook the natural beauty of Upper St. Clair. Memory care private apartment suites and common areas provide ample natural lighting, a testament to the attention to detail the community performed to ensure each resident is well provided for, both mentally and physically. A family-style kitchen and dining area assists with sparking smells of familiar home-cooked meals. Residents can do chair yoga or participate in a variety of fitness classes. They can also plant gardens of flowers and vegetables among the fountains in the outdoor courtyards.
Stanley Buswell grew up one mile from Friendship Village of South Hills. He and his wife, Carol, have four kids, ten grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. Stanley and Carol began to need extra care, but wanted to keep their active lifestyle. Their decisions to move to Friendship Village of South Hills was the best thing they could have done. Stanley explained, “The [team members] here are unbelievable. They are so patient and kind. There’s always someone there to help with anything, often going above and beyond.” He doesn’t know what he would do without the team member support. Stanley lives in assisted living, while Carol resident in memory care. Stanley visits Carol daily and enjoys having dinner with her every night. Stanley described his favorite thing here is, “making friends and the lifestyle we have. It’s family here.”
Resident Anne Hoffman is a humble woman and is immensely proud of her five wonderful children, 15 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. While touring the brand-new assisted living area with her daughters, Anne immediately knew Friendship Village of South Hills was the right place for her to call home. Anne is originally from Pittsburgh and received her degree in secretarial work from Ohio University. After school, she helped run the family business with her late husband until she was 82 years old! In recent years, she started to notice a decline in her eyesight and knew she needed extra help, especially with her medications. After she fell and broke her hip, she decided it was not safe for her to live alone anymore and moved into assisted living. “Friendship Village of South Hills gives me confidence knowing that someone is here to check on me,” said Anne. “I have my independence, but also the security that someone is here.” At 95 years of age, Anne still enjoys taking her daily walks and sitting outside on the benches. She loves the activities at Friendship Village of South Hills and regularly participates in chair yoga. She plays bridge and gin rummy nightly with some friends she has made. “I always want to participate in activities. It’s what keeps you young,” said Anne. She also enjoys attending church services. Something that stood out about this place to her daughters was that the team members listen to the residents’ families and they truly care about what they think and how they feel. “The team here works with you and they are very accommodating. We are thankful mom is here,” agreed all four daughters.
Unlike other senior living communities, Friendship Village of South Hills does not have a large community fee for assisted living and memory care. Linda McCaig, former resident council president, agrees that Friendship Village of South Hills celebrates the lives of seniors. As a generational Pittsburgh family with three children, Linda who resides in independent living, knows the community better than anyone else. Her mother was one of the first to put a deposit down for an apartment, back in 1984, and Linda was once the marketing director and activities coordinator for Friendship Village of South Hills. “We have something that no one else offers—we care about one another,” she stated. “The friendships are warm and deep here.” When asked what she would like the community of Upper St. Clair to know about this place, Linda replied, “We’d like people to come and see it for themselves, and that we welcome everyone. Our residents are also happy to have our new assisted living and memory care building and have the peace of mind knowing we have access should we ever need it. We know many others can benefit from it and the lifestyle offered here at Friendship Village of South Hills.”
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Assisted Living in Lafayette, CO
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Signs Families Should Notice
It may be time to consider assisted living when an older adult can no longer handle certain daily tasks safely or consistently, even with occasional help from family. The decision is rarely based on age alone. What matters is whether support with personal care, medications, meals, or supervision would make everyday life more manageable while preserving as much independence as possible. Which Changes Suggest More Support Is Needed? One difficult day does not automatically mean a move is necessary. Patterns, however, deserve attention. Repeated trouble getting dressed, skipping showers because of fall concerns, forgetting medications, or struggling to prepare meals can all suggest that the current arrangement needs to change. Families should also watch for a growing need for reassurance or assistance at night. Someone may be physically capable of many tasks but feel unsafe living alone. 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Assisted Living in Lafayette, CO
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Friendship Village of South Hills
Skilled NursingCompassionate Skilled Nursing Care in Pittsburgh: Where Healing Feels Like HomeWhen a loved one requires skilled nursing carewhether for short-term rehabilitation or long-term supportfinding the right environment is crucial. It's not just about medical expertise; it's about providing care in a setting that feels like home, surrounded by familiar faces and a supportive community.At Friendship Village of South Hills, located in the serene neighborhood of Upper St. Clair near Pittsburgh, skilled nursing services are delivered with a blend of professionalism and heartfelt compassion. Here, residents receive top-tier medical attention while enjoying the comforts and connections that make life meaningful.Personalized Care Around the ClockUnderstanding that each individual's needs are unique, Friendship Village offers 24/7 skilled nursing care tailored to each resident. Whether recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or requiring ongoing medical support, residents benefit from:Continuous monitoring by licensed nurses and certified nursing assistantsCustomized care plans developed in collaboration with residents, families, and healthcare providersAssistance with daily activities, medication management, and specialized therapiesThe goal is to promote healing, maintain dignity, and enhance quality of life at every stage.Comprehensive Rehabilitation ServicesFor those recovering from illness, injury, or surgery, Friendship Village provides a full spectrum of rehabilitation services designed to restore independence and confidence. The experienced therapy team offers:Physical therapy to improve strength, balance, and mobilityOccupational therapy to assist with daily living activitiesSpeech-language therapy to address communication and swallowing challengesTherapists work closely with residents to set achievable goals and celebrate progress, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation.Specialized Medical ServicesBeyond general nursing care, Friendship Village is equipped to manage complex medical needs with services including:Wound care managementIV therapy and antibiotic administrationDiabetes managementPain management strategiesEnteral (GT) feedingsVitalStim therapy for swallowing disordersJoint replacement therapyA multidisciplinary team ensures that each aspect of a resident's health is addressed with expertise and attention to detail.Engaging Amenities and Comfortable AccommodationsRecognizing that a nurturing environment contributes to overall well-being, Friendship Village offers amenities that make the skilled nursing experience more comfortable and engaging:Private and semi-private suites with flat-screen televisions and Wi-FiNutritious meals prepared under the guidance of a nutritionistDaily housekeeping and laundry servicesOn-site hair salon for personal groomingActivity rooms and enrichment programs led by coordinatorsFamily meeting spaces to foster connections and involvementThese features create a homelike atmosphere where residents can focus on recovery and enjoy daily life.A Community of Support and ConnectionAt Friendship Village, skilled nursing care is delivered within a vibrant community that values connection and support. Residents are encouraged to participate in social activities, engage with peers, and maintain relationships with family and friends. The community's holistic approach ensures that emotional and social needs are met alongside physical health.Seamless Continuum of CareAs part of a continuing care retirement community, Friendship Village offers a seamless transition between levels of care. Should a resident's needs change, they can access assisted living, memory care, or other services without leaving the community. This continuity provides peace of mind for residents and their families, knowing that comprehensive support is always available.Discover Skilled Nursing Care That Feels Like FamilyChoosing the right skilled nursing facility is a significant decision. At Friendship Village of South Hills, residents receive expert medical care in a setting that prioritizes comfort, dignity, and community. Whether for short-term rehabilitation or long-term support, the focus is on helping each individual live their best life.If you or a loved one are seeking skilled nursing services near Pittsburgh, consider visiting Friendship Village to experience the compassionate care and welcoming environment firsthand.
Friendship Village of South Hills
Independent LivingDiscover Independent Living That Feels Like Home at Friendship Village of South HillsIf you or a loved one are considering a move to independent senior living near Pittsburgh, theres one community that stands out for its warmth, vibrancy, and exceptional care: Friendship Village of South Hills. Nestled in the peaceful neighborhood of Upper St. Clair, this continuing care retirement community offers a truly elevated approach to independent livingwhere comfort meets elegance and every day feels like a new opportunity.Here, independent living is more than a lifestyleit's a mindset. Its about living each day with purpose, surrounded by a supportive community that values independence, personal growth, and genuine connections.A Vibrant Community Designed With You in MindImagine waking up in a beautifully designed apartment or cottage that reflects your style and personality. At Friendship Village, every residence is crafted for both comfort and function, offering modern features, open layouts, and maintenance-free living. Whether youre looking for a cozy one-bedroom or a spacious two-bedroom with a private patio, theres a layout to match your lifestyle.What makes this place so special is the community spirit. Its a place where neighbors become lifelong friends, where laughter fills the hallways, and where everyone is invited to join in. Social clubs, educational lectures, wine tastings, and fitness classes fill the calendarnot because theyre required, but because people genuinely enjoy coming together.Maintenance-Free Living With Five-Star AmenitiesSay goodbye to the hassles of homeownership and hello to more free time. At Friendship Village, residents enjoy maintenance-free living with a wide array of services includedweekly housekeeping, linen service, scheduled transportation, and 24-hour security. Everything is taken care of so you can spend more time doing the things you love.Prefer a quiet afternoon with a book? Relax in the cozy library. Looking for something more energetic? Join a group yoga class or walk the beautiful campus trails. Theres even a bocce ball court, computer lab, art studio, and a full-service fitness center with classes tailored for older adults.And when its time to unwind, residents can enjoy meals prepared by professional chefs in one of the communitys multiple dining venues. Whether its a casual lunch or a fine dining experience, youll find fresh, flavorful food and warm company.Wellness Thats Personal and HolisticFriendship Village takes a personalized approach to wellness. Here, health isnt just about physical fitnessits about nurturing the whole person. Residents benefit from access to wellness programs that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being.Fitness classes are designed to meet a variety of abilities and preferences, and the on-site wellness team helps residents create custom health and exercise plans. Nutritional counseling, preventative health screenings, and educational seminars are all part of the ongoing commitment to supporting healthy aging.Perhaps most importantly, there's an understanding that everyones journey is different. Thats why residents receive support tailored to their individual goals and lifestyles.Pet-Friendly, People-FocusedIts not truly home without all members of the familyincluding the furry ones. Friendship Village is a pet-friendly senior living community, allowing residents to bring their beloved dogs and cats along for the next chapter in life. Walking trails and green spaces offer plenty of room to stretch legs and paws alike.Residents here frequently describe the community as warm, welcoming, and deeply connected. Whether youre chatting with neighbors over coffee or participating in a lifelong learning class, its easy to feel like you belong.Security for Todayand Peace of Mind for TomorrowOne of the most valuable aspects of life at Friendship Village is the peace of mind that comes with living in a Life Care community. This means residents can transition seamlessly to assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitation servicesshould their health needs change in the futureall within the same trusted campus.For adult children and caregivers, this provides a profound sense of relief. You know your loved one is not only thriving today but is also supported for whatever tomorrow may bring. And for seniors, this means the freedom to live independently with the confidence that a safety net is already in place.Perfectly Located for Convenience and ConnectionConveniently located just outside Pittsburgh in the scenic hills of Upper St. Clair, Friendship Village offers the perfect blend of quiet suburban charm and access to city life. Residents can easily enjoy day trips to museums, theaters, shopping, and cultural attractions in downtown Pittsburgh, while still coming home to a peaceful, resort-style community.The setting is ideal for those who want to stay connected to everything they lovefamily, friends, nature, and culturewithout compromising on security or convenience.The Next Chapter Starts HereIf you're ready to embrace a more fulfilling retirement lifestyleor you're helping a loved one explore independent living optionsFriendship Village of South Hills is a place worth discovering. Its where independence and community go hand in hand, where care and comfort meet, and where every day offers something new.Schedule a visit, take a tour, or attend one of their community events to experience the warmth and hospitality for yourself. This isnt just senior livingits a new beginning.