Find a sense of community in assisted living The many benefits of assisted living

Amber Park resident Marie Pollard relaxes in her home. (Credit: Amber Park)

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.

Monthly rent includes three delicious meals prepared by chefs daily, as well as all weekly cleaning, such as vacuuming and dusting, and a full-time, health care staff onsite for peace of mind. There’s also scheduled transportation, entertainment and exercise classes.

Walking around Amber Park, what stands out most is the real sense of community, from the staff to the residents. There’s even a monthly newsletter about what’s going on. In this lighthearted update, residents get a look at some of the delicious meals they’ll be eating, planned activities, and scheduled movies, including mini film festivals like a recent showcase dedicated to Alfred Hitchcock.

Around the Amber Park community, they really get to know each other — and have fun.

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

For many residents, Amber Park is the retirement they always wanted. After raising a family or having a career, it’s a place where they finally have time to focus on activities they love or discover new hobbies without worrying about taking care of a house or being on their own.

In addition to its amenities and tight-knit community, a caring staff that treats residents like family sets Amber Park apart. “They’re always very friendly and helpful,” said Amber Park resident Alice Heaton of the community’s personnel.

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 still has lots to smile about. (Credit: Amber Park)

Having a network of friends, neighbors and caring staff at Amber Park, greatly improves quality of life. Every day is filled with opportunities to try a fitness class or a new recipe. People around Amber Park share meals together, discuss current issues and host book and garden clubs.

Ask different residents and you’ll quickly discover one of the best parts about living at Amber Park is resoundingly the meals. “I enjoy all the people and the food,” said Diane Peters. Amber Park’s culinary team have serious cooking credentials and serve up seasonally inspired fare three meals per day. Plus, there are snacks and coffee available throughout the day.

“The activities are fun. The staff are great. I would recommend this place to anyone,” said Peters.

To explore Amber Park Assisted Living Community, visit seniorlivinginstyle.com/ senior-living/oh/pickerington/amber-park/ or call 614-953-2539.