Velda Roe hadn’t heard much about Victorian Legacy, the Good Samaritan Society’s assisted living residence in Superior, Nebraska, until her daughter suggested they take a tour.
Joni Anderson thought her mom could benefit from the services and socialization that assisted living offers.
“I was very impressed. It’s a very clean, elegant building with actual Victorian furniture,” says Velda, a resident at Victorian Legacy. “The curtains are beautifully draped and the couches are upholstered in the Victorian way.”
In a short time, the peaceful atmosphere, friendly neighbors and supportive staff members have helped Velda blossom.
“It’s just been wonderful. I love this place for her. She’s more independent, and she was never that way before,” says Joni. “She goes out with her friends and they do things and she also does things on her own.”
New friends and time for hobbies
Providing opportunities to socialize is an important part of assisted living. Meals are a time when residents spend time together. Velda regularly eats with two of her neighbors.
“We visit and I’ve made friends. The food is really good and after we finish eating, we usually all head back to our apartments and take a nap. When you’re 82, sometimes a nap is just the thing to do,” she states.
Velda likes the church service and Bible study and also participates in the monthly activity outings that Victorian Legacy offers. A group of residents recently went to a restaurant at a nearby lake.
She also likes doing individual hobbies and keeps busy with puzzles, reading and listening to music on her computer.
Comfortable apartment
Her apartment offers a nice space to spend time. It includes two rooms, a bay window, a kitchenette and a bathroom.
“She has one of the best views and sees horses all day long, running in a little pasture,” says Joni.
“It’s very peaceful and quiet. I don’t hear the neighbors at all, but then you also have friends around when you want to visit,” Velda states.
Velda has a love seat, lift chair and end tables in her living room, as well as a TV and computer. Her kitchenette has a mini refrigerator, microwave, toaster and coffee maker.
Kind and supportive staff
Velda can add different services if she ever needs them. She currently gets help with her medications. She also has her apartment cleaned once a week and has her laundry done.
“We just get waited on hand and foot,” Velda states.
Velda has Lewy body dementia. On the days when her memory isn’t as good as usual, staff members provide the same loving care and patient communication.
“All the staff is great. The assisted living supervisor, Justin Bushnell, helped so much getting things ready and getting her settled,” says Joni. “He’s known her since he was young so that really helped.”
Velda and Joni take things one day at a time and are thankful for the supportive staff and peaceful atmosphere.
“It’s just a beautiful place to live,” says Velda.