Fostering comfort
There’s a reason why Anna Maria of Aurora was named the Number One Nursing Home in Ohio by Newsweek. In fact, there are dozens.
Named the Number One Nursing Home in Ohio by Newsweek, Anna Maria of Aurora takes caring for seniors to an entirely new level. (Photography: Francis Angelone)
Named the Number One Nursing Home in Ohio by Newsweek this year, Anna Maria of Aurora’s campus is comprised of two skilled nursing facilities as well as independent living, assisted living, short-term rehab and memory care.
As soon as you drive down the winding roads that circle the entire continuing care campus set on 70 wooded acres, you see why Anna Maria is garnering accolades. It feels like home. From charming courtyard patios interspersed throughout the grounds, to cozy indoor fireplaces and bookshelves, to friendly staff greeting you at every turn and a golden retriever therapy dog cuddling with residents, this home-like environment fosters a deep sense of comfort, belonging and peace of mind for both residents and their loved ones.
A pillar in the community, Anna Maria was founded in 1964 by Robert and Loretta Norton. Today, second generation family member Robert Norton along with third generation family members Chris Norton and Aaron Baker run the day-to-day activities at the family-owned-and-operated business.
“This award is a testament to our dedicated and compassionate team who work tirelessly to provide the highest quality of care,” Chris says. “We believe every resident deserves to feel at home and be treated with dignity, and this recognition affirms that commitment.”
The campus of Anna Maria is home to nearly 300 residents and offers a continuum of care, allowing individuals to age in place. Residents can transition seamlessly from independent to assisted living, with access to skilled nursing and memory care services as needed. Here, staff and residents come together to form a close-knit community.
“You can have the most opulent building in the world, but it is the staff that really makes the difference,” Aaron says, noting the owners are in the building every day working with the staff. “The quality and longevity of our staff is the driving force behind our success.”
Dozens of staff members have been part of Anna Maria for decades. Among them are the director of dietary, the director of nursing and two admissions managers (who are twins). They all began working here at the age of 16 in front-line roles. Over the years, they pursued education and gained experience along the way, ultimately rising to their current leadership roles today.
This deep-rooted commitment among staff fosters a strong sense of continuity and trust, which becomes especially important during what can be a difficult transition for families.
“We realize it is hard for a family to move a loved one out of their home, but at the same time it is a challenge to be able to provide 24-hour care,” says Stacey Belknap, director of marketing and media. “Here, we help care for our residents, so when families come to visit, they can just enjoy the time they get to spend with their loved one.”
For those not ready yet to move from their home but need extra assistance, the company’s Family Tree Home Care Services offers the same support with daily living activities at home.
“We offer comprehensive, non-medical care at home,” Family Tree Home Care Client Services Manager Paty Pasadyn says. “If staying at home is the preference but staying there safely is a struggle, Family Tree can help. Our caregivers can assist with everything from bathing and personal care to meal preparation, transportation and errands or just companionship. The service is tailored to the individual’s needs, from 24 hours a day to one 3-hour shift per week. We help our client stay in their home longer.”
Anna Maria’s core mission is giving back to the commnity. The business stays actively involved by supporting and donating to the Alzheimer’s Association, Rotary Club of Aurora, Aurora Community Theater, Aurora Historical Society, local churches and four different chambers of commerce.
“We are not a senior living chain or part of a large corporation but are a third-generation family business,” Aaron says. “We strive to do right by every resident and every family, every day.”
The Campus of Anna Maria of Aurora is located at 889 North Aurora Road in Aurora. For more details, call 330-562-6171 or visit AnnaMariaOfAurora.com.
Rev Your Engines for a Great Cause
- What: Anna Maria Charity Car Show
- When: Saturday, August 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Pre-registration begins at 8:30 a.m.)
- Where: The Campus of Anna Maria of Aurora, 889 N. Aurora Road, in Aurora
Enjoy a car show benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, this event is free to attend. There will be live music, delicious food and local vendors, as well as an auction, raffle and prizes galore.
While it is a free event for the community, Anna Maria of Aurora is raising money from driver registration and sponsorships. All monies go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association. Registration for drivers is $20 before August 15; $25 the day of event. Sponsorships also are available.
“This is our 16th annual charity car show. Last year we raised more than $24,000 to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association and are looking forward to continuing to give back to the community, and, specifically, help with Alzheimer’s research as so many families are affected by this disease.”
“All vehicles are welcome, so if it has wheels, bring it,” says Evan Webster, community relations director. “This includes classic cars, hot rods, custom builds, motorcycles, trucks, jeeps and daily drivers. We even had someone come last year in a go-kart.”
To register your car or sign up as a sponsor, call Evan at 330-562-0600 or email ewebster@annamariaofaurora.com.
The Anna Maria Charity Car Show has raised more than $200K in funds, in addition to awareness for the Alzheimer’s Associaton.
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