For more information about the author, click to view their website: Friendship Village of South Hills
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.”
Did you know that Pennsylvania has the fifth largest older adult population in the nation with 3.4 million individuals?1 As the population continues to age, more people are weighing their options when it comes to downsizing, moving into a senior living community, or choosing to age in the comfort of their homes. According to a 2021 Home and Community Preferences survey by AARP of 2,826 U.S. adults, about 75% of people over the age of 50 expressed that they would like to remain in their current houses and communitiesmeaning aging in place is becoming a more prevalent life choice among older adults.2What to Know About Aging in PlaceIf youre leaning toward spending your years in the place where you feel the most content and safe, then you need to be willing to make some modifications to your home. As you age, your needs change, which means certain features in your home may need to be adjusted. Wider doorways and walkways; accessible bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms; ramps and lifts; non-slip floors; and stability aids like grab bars and handrails are some of the most common enhancements that come to mind, but assistive technology can play an important role in aging in place too.Many people choose to age in place because they want to maintain their independence, and assistive technology helps make that possible. From smart home devices that allow you to control the temperature or lights with voice commands to amplified phones and doorbells, there are plenty of high-tech tools that can help you navigate your day-to-day with ease. If youre a senior with hearing loss, Captioned Telephone Relay Service is a free service that allows you to read captions of whats said to you during phone conversations using a uniquely designed CapTel phone.CapTel Makes Phone Conversations Clearer Using CapTel, you can confidently and securely age in place knowing that you can effectively communicate over the phone. Whether youre calling loved ones to catch up, chatting with your doctor, or contacting first responders in an emergency, CapTel is a dependable communication solution for older adults who have hearing loss.Best of all, the CapTel captioning service is free and available in English and Spanish, with captions appearing on the bright, built-in display screen of the CapTel phone just moments after the other caller has spoken. CapTel phones can be purchased directly for $75 through a third-party vendor, or qualified Pennsylvania residents can apply for a CapTel device through the states Telecommunications Device Distribution Program (TDDP)which provides specialized equipment to individuals who find it difficult to use a standard phone. Age in Place Confidently with CapTelTo learn more about CapTel, including how to purchase or apply for an assistive communication device, visit pactrs.com today!Sources:1Master Plan for Older Adults, Pennsylvania Department of Aging 22021 Home and Community Preferences Survey: A National Survey of Adults Age 18-Plus | Joannne Binette & Fanni Farago, AARP Research CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc.
As the population ages, the demand for senior living options that prioritize both luxury and comprehensive care has increased. In the heart of Sarasota, Florida, Elance stands as a beacon of sophisticated senior living, offering a range of care levels, from independent and residential living to assisted living and specialized memory care. With an unwavering commitment to providing top-tier amenities, personalized care, and a vibrant community, Elance redefines luxury senior living while ensuring the well-being and comfort of its residents. Understanding Elance of Sarasota: A Haven for Luxury Senior LivingElance of Sarasota, situated in a serene and picturesque location, sets itself apart by seamlessly blending luxury accommodations with comprehensive care services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its residents. Their dedication to providing an enriching and fulfilling lifestyle distinguishes Elance as a premier destination for seniors seeking a luxurious yet supportive living environment. Levels of Care Offered at ElanceIndependent and Residential LivingElance's independent and residential living options are designed for seniors seeking an active and independent lifestyle while relishing the convenience and comfort of a luxury community. Residents in this level of care enjoy spacious, well-appointed residences with access to a variety of amenities and services tailored to enhance their quality of life. Assisted LivingFor those requiring additional support with daily activities, Elance's assisted living program offers personalized care plans to meet individual needs. Trained professionals provide assistance with tasks such as medication management, dressing, grooming, and other activities, fostering an environment that promotes autonomy while ensuring safety and well-being. Memory CareElance's specialized memory care program is dedicated to supporting individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. The memory care community is designed with a focus on safety, comfort, and specialized programming to engage residents and support their cognitive and emotional needs. The Elance Experience: Unparalleled Amenities and ServicesLuxurious Accommodations: Elance boasts elegant and spacious residences, ranging from well-appointed apartments to stylish villas, each designed to offer comfort and sophistication. The living spaces are equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a luxurious yet homely atmosphere for residents. Culinary Excellence: At Elance, dining is an experience to savor. Culinary experts curate menus that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, offering gourmet meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Residents can enjoy delectable meals in elegant dining settings that encourage socialization and a sense of community. Wellness and Recreation: The focus on wellness and recreation is integral to Elance's approach to senior living. Residents have access to fitness centers, yoga studios, swimming pools, and wellness programs designed to promote physical health and emotional well-being. Additionally, a robust calendar of social activities and events ensures that residents can engage in hobbies, pursue interests, and foster connections within the community. Personalized Care and Support: Elance prides itself on delivering personalized care and support to residents at every level. Their dedicated team of caregivers and healthcare professionals is available around the clock, ensuring that residents receive the attention and assistance they need while respecting their independence and preferences. Embracing Technology for Enhanced Living: Elance harnesses the power of technology to enhance the living experience for its residents. From smart home features that provide convenience and safety to telehealth services that offer access to healthcare professionals, Elance integrates modern technology seamlessly into its luxury living environment. Conclusion: Elance - Elevating Senior Living to Unprecedented HeightsElance of Sarasota represents the epitome of luxury senior living, where residents experience a harmonious blend of opulence, personalized care, and a vibrant community. Their commitment to providing a nurturing and engaging environment for seniors seeking diverse levels of care sets a benchmark for excellence in the realm of senior living. With a focus on luxurious accommodations, exceptional amenities, personalized care, and a commitment to holistic well-being, Elance stands as a testament to redefining senior living, ensuring that residents live their golden years in comfort, dignity, and joy. As a destination that combines elegance with compassionate care, Elance of Sarasota continues to be a cherished haven for seniors seeking a life of luxury and fulfillment.
Nestled in the serene and picturesque landscapes of Punta Gorda, Florida, Hampton Manor stands as a testament to unparalleled senior living, offering a diverse spectrum of care that encompasses Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. As a distinguished senior living community, Hampton Manor is dedicated to providing exceptional services tailored to meet the unique needs of residents while fostering a vibrant and engaging environment. Embracing Independent LivingFor seniors seeking an independent lifestyle without compromising on comfort or convenience, Hampton Manor's Independent Living program offers a harmonious blend of freedom and support. Residents relish the autonomy of private residences while enjoying a myriad of amenities and services designed to enhance their quality of life. From spacious and elegantly designed accommodations to an array of recreational and wellness activities, Independent Living at Hampton Manor ensures a fulfilling and carefree lifestyle. Assisted Living: Personalized Care and SupportRecognizing that some residents may require additional assistance with daily activities, Hampton Manor's Assisted Living program prioritizes personalized care in a supportive and compassionate environment. Trained caregivers and healthcare professionals are available around the clock to provide assistance with medication management, dressing, grooming, and other essential tasks. The emphasis on preserving residents' independence while offering tailored support ensures a sense of dignity and well-being. Specialized Memory Care: Nurturing Cognitive HealthFor individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions, Hampton Manor's Memory Care program offers a specialized environment focused on safety, comfort, and engaging activities. The program is designed to support cognitive function and emotional well-being, incorporating innovative approaches and specialized therapies to cater to the unique needs of residents with memory impairments. Amenities and Engaging Community LifeHampton Manor prides itself on providing a wealth of amenities and fostering a vibrant community life for its residents. From beautifully landscaped grounds and comfortable common areas to fitness centers, wellness programs, and recreational activities, the community encourages an active and socially engaging lifestyle. Residents have ample opportunities to participate in various events, classes, and outings, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. Commitment to Personalized Care and CompassionAt the heart of Hampton Manor's philosophy lies a commitment to personalized care and genuine compassion for its residents. The dedicated team of caregivers and staff members prioritize the well-being of residents, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment where each individual's needs are understood and met with empathy and professionalism. Conclusion: Hampton Manor - A Haven for Holistic Senior LivingHampton Manor of Punta Gorda embodies the essence of comprehensive and compassionate senior living, offering a continuum of care that caters to the diverse needs of its residents. Through Independent Living, Assisted Living, and specialized Memory Care programs, the community fosters an environment that prioritizes independence, well-being, and vibrant community engagement.As a destination where luxury meets personalized care and a vibrant lifestyle, Hampton Manor stands as a beacon of excellence in senior living. Its unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of residents through exceptional care, engaging amenities, and a welcoming community continues to make it a cherished home for seniors seeking comfort, support, and fulfillment in their golden years.
If youre looking for senior living in Pittsburgh, PA, or Allegheny County, Friendship Village of South Hills should be at the top of your list. Friendship Village seamlessly combines the advantages of Pittsburgh retirement communities with the security of Life Care, the relaxed ease of small-town living, and the serene natural environment Upper St. Clair is known for. Here youll find like-minded individuals who share your down-to-earth attitude as well as your curiosity, creativity and desire for growth. And youll find a senior living community that is grounded, strong and adaptable. Just like you.
Located on 73 beautiful acres in Upper St. Clair, in the South Hills area of Pittsburgh, PA, Friendship Village is the perfect community for those who enjoy the resources and attractions of big-city life, but prefer to live in the more serene atmosphere of a small town. Here youll find like-minded individuals who share your down-to-earth attitude as well as your curiosity, creativity and desire for growth. And youll find a multitude of opportunities to make this community your own.Choices abound here. Apartment home or Carriage Home? Formal dining or something more casual? Take a painting class or a community trip to the art museum? Swap stories with friends in the pub or challenge them to a round of golf? Maybe its all the above because when you live at Friendship Village, what you do every day is only up to you.Everyone needs a little help from time to time. When difficulty with activities such as bathing, dressing or remembering to take medications threatens your independence, the experienced senior care team members at Friendship Village Assisted Living in Pittsburgh provide the personalized assistance you need to continue living the life you desire.Unlike many other Pittsburgh assisted living facilities, Friendship Villages comfortable, all-new alcove, one- and two-bedroom apartments are specially designed to support and enhance your independence and quality of life. Our new assisted living community also offers an array of wellness programs, social activities, cultural events and other opportunities for engagement. And, of course, our care team is with you whenever you need us. Because life is better with friends by your side.HELPFUL SERVICESDedicated assisted living nurse and certified nursing assistant 24 hours a dayPersonalized plan, developed with resident, residents loved ones and our caring teamProfessional, friendly assistance with activities of daily livingAssistance with medication managementDieticianHousekeepingDaily MonitoringOpened in 1984, Friendship Village of South Hills is part of Lifespace Communities, Inc., a not-for-profit, multi-state system of senior living communities that currently serves more than 5,100 people. For more than 40 years, Lifespace has created beautiful spaces for seniors to thrive and celebrate life every day. With decades of success and financial stability under its belt, Lifespace has earned national respect and recognition and, even more importantly, the trust of thousands of team members, residents and their families.