Finding a community

by Sean McCarthy

For seniors and their loved ones, the decision to relocate to an assisted living community can be stressful and worrisome. But the people at The Arbors at Taunton are skilled in making the transition smooth and easy – they’ve been doing it for more than 21 years.

“Many people are moving in with us after they have lived in their own home for 40 or 50 years,” says executive director Nellie Vieira.

“There can be a fear of change – going somewhere new, not knowing people and not knowing the routine. There can also be a feeling of grief at the anticipation of leaving their own home and what is familiar and comfortable. Often seniors are lonely and will benefit from being with other seniors in similar circumstances. As we age, we often need more assistance than our loved ones are able to provide in this ever-changing world we all live in.

The Arbors has 78 apartments for residents, and couples are welcome. The facility has a staff of 60 people and is monitored 24 hours a day. A person must be at least 62 to become a resident, while the average age is mid-to-late 80’s.

To ensure a great quality of life, we offer as much socialization as people would like

“We give them love and attention, and acclimate them to their new setting and surroundings,” Vieira says. “Oftentimes we’ll pair a new resident with someone who has been here for a long time, like a buddy system, someone who has similar interests. The residents are very welcoming.”

Each resident at the Arbors has their own personal apartment that they can furnish to their liking

The most important focus of the Arbors is socialization.

“They’re not sitting at home alone watching tv every day and wait for their loved ones to visit,” Vieira says. “The socialization that someone gets here and being with other people like them keeps them cognitively going. To ensure a great quality of life, we offer as much socialization as people want to participate in.”

Each resident at the Arbors has their own personal apartment that they furnish to their liking. They can move in their own bed, furniture and various décor to create a comfortable and familiar environment. Each apartment includes a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator and microwave, a living area, a spacious closet, and full bathroom facilities.

“People can bring in anything they like, depending on their personal choice,” Vieira says. “From bureaus, nightstands and chairs, portraits, paintings, and family photos.”

A quality dining experience is a priority at the Arbors

A quality dining experience is a priority at the Arbors. Residents can enjoy three health-conscious, homemade meals a day, prepared by a chef, approved by a dietician, and served in a restaurant-like setting or in a private dining room with guests. Meals can be personalized to meet health requirements.

The Arbors also provides residents the opportunity to go on weekly shopping trips to area grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and the post office, as well as regular outings to various sights and events such as summer picnics at parks or fall foliage drives.

The Arbors also offers religious services to its residents.

The Arbors makes available a variety of living options, including, assisted living and memory care. Each resident has his or her own service plan tailored to their own personal care needs and preferences. They also offer a 30-day trial stay and a 10 percent discount for life for veterans.

The Arbors organization is family owned and operated, it began 24 years ago by a brother and sister with a facility in Amherst, MA. Today they have 10 locations in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and the next generation of family runs the business.

For more information go online to arborsassistedliving.com or call the Taunton location at (508) 824-4800.

Sean McCarthy has been a freelance journalist for 27 years. He lives in New Bedford.