The Columbus Dispatch

Find a sense of community in assisted living

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Imagine all the comforts of home — without any of the maintenanc­e, reminders to pay electricit­y bills or housekeepi­ng. Think about how wonderful it would be to wake up every morning and have a delicious breakfast waiting for you with a hot cup of coffee.

“It’s like being on vacation,” said Marie Pollard, a resident at Amber Park Assisted Living Community in Pickeringt­on, Ohio. “I don’t have to do anything. The people are friendly. I don’t have to cook or clean. I can sleep in, and I get to have fun.”

She and her neighbors at Amber Park play cards together, celebrate holidays together and even on occasion sing together.

Featuring a range of spacious studios, onebedroom apartments, and two-bedroom apartments with kitchenett­es, life at Amber Park is all about enjoying good food, good company and good times.

Amber Park resident Alice Heaton and Administra­tor Kelli Love share some time outdoors. (Credit: Amber Park)

While administra­tor Kelli Love makes sure every resident is happy, she also makes time for afternoon chitchats in the garden. Amber Parks offers a great balance: You can be with people when you want, or enjoy peace and quiet in your own home with a good book — or your dog or cat.

During the pandemic, people of all ages around the country have shared feelings of isolation and loneliness. For older adults, feeling alone can impact your health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“When theworld is staying apart, we are coming together,” read a newsletter back in August 2020. This camaraderi­e is important any time of year, but especially during challengin­g times.

Amber Park resident Diane Peters has lots to smile about. (Credit: Amber Park)

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