Finding Comfort In The Harbor

Embodying the motto, “You served us, now let us serve you,” one assisted-living facility in Opelika deeply cares for all of its residents, some of whom are veterans.

The Harbor at Opelika is more than just a memorycare center. Here, its specialty is helping those with different forms of dementia, like Alzheimer’s, live in a comforting, safe environment where they can age in peace.

This assisted-living facility symbolizes a sense of community. Residents can connect with each other, as well as with their caregivers. It also gives veterans a place to bond with other veterans. Christy Goodwin, the area director of sales and marketing, passionately works every day to give residents the loving guidance they deserve.

She described how the facility’s 1950s theme was intentionally planned to take residents back to a happier time in their past. The Harbor’s strategic placement of furniture, artwork and different colors helps establish this charming, peaceful setting.

“After years of research, The Harbor was designed to be a refuge from the storms associated with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia,” Goodwin said.

The Harbor’s new executive director, Sharon Lee, is already putting to work her extensive experience in the healthcare field after joining the team in June. Her workday routine changes daily to best accommodate the residents. As every person suffers from dementia differently, the staff properly recognizes this by meeting residents right where they are in their individual journeys.

“Our residents are our north star and come first and foremost every day,” Lee said. “It is my and my team’s responsibility to make certain that all our residents are cared for with honor, respect, faith and integrity.”

Not only does The Harbor strive to provide tranquility for its residents, but this center also wants to ease their worrying families. The staff has received positive feedback as families have observed the amazing relationships that develop in this uplifting atmosphere.

“We do our best to make sure that families know their loved one is taken care of and loved on just as they would be at home,” Lee said. “While we take care of Mom or Dad, our goal for the family is peace of mind.” Each resident has his or her own private apartment

that is decorated based on individual style and furnishing preferences. Some amenities include assistance with activities of daily living, three home-cooked meals per day, escorts and transportation, courtyards and outdoor activities, medication management, as well as housekeeping services.

This center prides itself on how it caters to veterans along with other residents. Goodwin said The Harbor partners with an expert organization to help veterans or their families to qualify for an Aid & Attendance Allowance. This can help veterans in covering the costs of assisted living services and is paid to veterans and their families.

“When a veteran moves in with us, we place their service picture on our wall of honor and partner with local service organizations to continue honoring our veterans,” Goodwin said.

She added that the dedicated team of 20 to 25

employees, who work daily with the residents, receive training once a month from the Alzheimer’s Association. The team also trains more in-house where they develop skills on how to care for residents who may experience symptoms commonly associated with memory loss. The licensed and certified staff is devoted to every person’s dignity. Caregivers respect each resident’s worth and are always willing to assist any distinct need.

Goodwin has many heartfelt stories to share about The Harbor. One family of a former resident, who passed away a few years ago, still regularly visits the current residents. Not only do they visit the friends they made while their mother lived there, but they also engage with the new residents to make them feel loved as well. Goodwin said this sits close to her heart.

“If I have heard it once, I have heard it a thousand times — when you come to The Harbor, as a resident, family member, visitor, even a team member, you are family,” she said. “We are so blessed to have such an amazing family of hundreds because of all of our extended members.”

Their “Purposeful Day” program is a highlight of the facility. This initiative centers on the idea that each day brings a fresh start and a new purpose. Adhering to a daily routine, while also switching up activities based on residents’ wishes, seems to be well reciprocated.

“We want to make sure our residents are fulfilled and enjoy life. Just a part of what we do to accomplish that is to use reminiscent therapy, music, exercises and games,” Goodwin said.

Mealtime is another highlight of a resident’s day, and The Harbor works to foster a family-style dining

experience. Residents can eat their meals in the dining room and have coffee, snacks or dessert with friends anytime.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the facility’s ultimate goal is to keep its residents and staff safe and healthy.

“We have made every effort to help our loved ones stay informed and connected through window visits, FaceTime appointments and frequent phone calls,” Goodwin said. “The support and prayers from our families have kept our team steadfast in our mission to serve our seniors at The Harbor.”

For more information, call 334-749-7992 or visit www. legacysl.net/facilities/harbor-at-opelika/.

“Our residents are our north star and come first and foremost every day. It is my and my team’s responsibility to make certain that all our residents are cared for with honor, respect, faith and integrity.”