At Salida Woods Assisted Living, residents become part of the family

By Mary Malik

In April of 1947, while U.S. Army private Joseph N. was stationed in Kyushu, Japan, he met a young Japanese woman who four years later would become his wife. Their story of what transpired in those four years has the makings of a post-WWII romance novel. Joe and his wife, Kay, shared the story when we met at Salida Woods Assisted Living in Mentor, where they now live.

“It’s a romance that has lasted 67 years,” says Joe. “We raised our four children in Lake County and moved to Salida Woods three years ago after Kay suffered a stroke. It’s been the next best thing to home.”

The staff at Salida Woods takes pride in being a part of this next chapter in their residents’ lives.

“Everyone has a story,” says Linda Uhas, Senior Living Counselor at Salida Woods.

“Our unique apartment-style living gives residents their privacy and allows them to be as independent as possible as we provide the support they need.”

And when a resident’s physical or mental health deteriorates, they are able to remain in their own apartment and most any treatment comes to them. The 68 apartments at Salida Woods include a kitchenette and are large enough to accommodate couples. And many times it’s more than just the residents taking advantage of all that Salida Woods has to offer.

“We’re all about family,” says Noel Cagnina, Community Director. “And the residents become family to the staff, and to each other. Residents often have grandchildren for sleepovers complete with movies and popcorn, and hold family dinners in our private dining room. The whole family is always welcome.”

When residents were asked about life at Salida Woods, they had many different reasons for being happy here but the one thing everyone agreed on was the compassion of the staff.

“It’s always hard to leave to your home,” says resident Dorothy P.

“But the staff here is wonderful. They understand the adjustment can be difficult and take their time to really get to know us and create a fun atmosphere. I’ve made friends here and we enjoy spending time together.”

Joe and Kay know they are lucky to have each other during this transitional time in their lives.

“We are one of five married couples here,” says Joe.

“The staff does special things for us like a Valentine’s Day dinner and celebrating our anniversaries. But they also show great compassion and consideration for the widowed and single residents and make sure they aren’t isolated or lonely.”

Ensuring residents’ safety and providing meals and medical care are all part of daily life at Salida Woods, but it’s the activities and the attention to their emotional and spiritual health that makes the difference.

A complimentary van takes residents to appointments and provides transportation for outings, including shopping trips, meals at local restaurants and other activities. Keeping residents busy and engaged is an important part of the care at Salida Woods.

“New residents often come to us after the death of a spouse has made life at home difficult and isolating,” says Linda. “It’s beautiful to see how residents come together to help someone new cope with a loss and get settled. It’s a very nurturing environment.”

For the past 19 years, Salida Woods has been supporting seniors through this new chapter in their lives, and is honored to be a part of their story.

Salida Woods is located at 7685 Lake Shore Blvd. in Mentor. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 440-257-3866 or check the website LifeServicesAssistedLiving.com.