Quality assisted living services in a dignified living environment
By Lauren Schiffman, Contributing Writer
Photo/submitted
Marlborough – Christopher Heights of Marlborough, an assisted living community with 83 private one-bedroom, studio and alcove apartments, sets itself apart from other assisted living communities through its financial model, which allows residents to age in place.
The community has historically offered a one size fits all model for its residents. Such services include daily chef-prepared meals, assistance with personal care, community-building and social activities, light housekeeping and laundry services.
A newly-launched program has diversified the amenities available to residents, while staying true to the values and structure for which they are known.
“It’s all about choice,” said Stephanie Nordstrom, Director of Marketing & Admissions.
Independent residents who do not need personal care services can benefit from the Social Living option. It offers an array of social activities, including musical entertainment, crafting, paint classes, wellness clinics, daily exercise, happy hour, sing-a-longs, knit and crochet club, religious services, intergenerational activities, trips, guest speakers, games and more. Three daily chef-prepared meals are available with accommodations made for certain diets, and residents have the security in knowing that staff is available as needed 24 hours per day.
The second tier plan, Assurance, includes up to one-and-a-half hours of daily care, full housekeeping and laundry services once per week, three daily meals and in-house escorts for additional support, while the Premium plan includes additional support with long-term financial planning.
Finally, the Concierge plan benefits individuals whose families are not able to provide as much hands-on assistance. For example, if a family member is unable to take a loved one to a doctor’s appointment, Christopher Heights provides transportation and an escort. Personal shopping, a higher level of community integration and apartment customization are other components of the Concierge living option.
A resident for the last four years, Thelma said, “There’s no place I’d rather be. I thought I would be content to be a couch potato prior to moving in, but… there is so much to do. I’m always busy with games, crafts or listening to musical entertainment… I have my days when I just like quiet time in my apartment, but I’m never bored. To me there is no better way to spend my golden days.”
Another new service that residents can utilize is on-site medical care. The practice of Dr. Vinay Kumar, Charles River Medical Associates, will be making monthly visits to existing patients. The practice will also be accepting new patients for residents interested in taking advantage of the house calls.
While Christopher Heights typically has a waitlist, a studio apartment is currently available. All apartments are laid out with resident safety in mind. Each has a walk-in shower with seats; a kitchenette; handrails for physical support; and pull cords for assistance. An emergency response system is monitored 24 hours a day.
To learn more about Christopher Heights, or to participate in the Try Us program prior to signing a lease, call 508-281-8001. For additional information, visit www.Christopherheights.com.
