By Lori Lovely
Brandon Wood Retirement Community marks its 30-year anniversary in October, and will commemorate the milestone by combining an anniversary celebration with its holiday open house on December 17.
When it first opened in 1985, the concept of an independent living facility was rather new. It has proven successful, with some residents staying since 1990. “Brandon Wood has a longer length of stay than other places,” reports Kaye Strauch, director. Her figures indicate an average stay of 6.75 years, compared with an industry average of 2 to 2-1/2 years. There’s even a waiting list for specific apartments.
Residents aren’t the only ones sticking around. Under the same ownership for 30 years, Brandon Wood has many long-time employees. Strauch herself has been there 29 years. The facility’s dietary supervisor has been there almost as long. One employee has been there even before the start. “Our activity director used to work at the motel,” Strauch says.
Transition
Before it was a retirement community, the building was originally known as the Townhouse Motel and Redbud Restaurant. “It was purchased and converted,” Strauch states. The two-story building houses 69 apartments. The one- and two-bedroom apartments and studios feature kitchenettes, walk-in closets, and full bathrooms with safety bars.
Traces of the old motel linger, conveying a quirky, unique style with a home-like atmosphere. “There used to be a shopping mall in an old-fashioned town square,” Strauch explains. Now that area features an aviary, laundry facilities, beauty shop, library, gift shop, and activity room. Balcony apartments overlook it. Other apartments, featuring private patios with flowerbeds and planters, have access to an outdoor courtyard.
The small-town atmosphere continues in the large lobby, the dining rooms that overlook a waterfall in the atrium, the two comfortable lounge areas with a big patio, and the benches by the front door, where residents like to gather for some people-watching.
Home Sweet Home
The services Brandon Wood provides are as important as the accommodations they offer. The rent includes two meals a day, which are ordered from the menu a day in advance. “Many residents have cars,” Strauch points out, “and like to come and go.” By providing two meals instead of three, residents feel freer to go out into the community to pursue activities — although residents may opt for three meals a day for an additional charge, if they prefer.
However, they don’t need to leave the grounds to experience a wide variety of planned group outings, educational programs, and social events, offering residents plenty of opportunities to be active and social, ranging from exercise, cards, and bingo to music groups that come in four to six times a week. In addition, organized outings with provided transportation take them on shopping trips two times a week, to band concerts, plays and musicals, and to the gambling boat.
“We have a lively group of seniors,” Strauch observes. “I often hear laughter coming from the activity room or the dining room.”
Small in Size, Big in Service
Strauch considers Brandon Wood’s small setting an advantage. “It’s more personable. Due to the longevity of our staff and our residents, we have developed relationships. We know our people.”
That provides peace of mind for residents and their families. As Strauch explains, living at Brandon Wood takes away the risks and the stress of living alone. By offering support services, such as housekeeping, monthly health screenings, prescription delivery, and 24-hour security, Brandon Wood ensures the safety and well-being of all its residents.
Home health care companies are available to provide additional services on a daily basis if needed, but even the small, personal touches are so important. Mealtime has become a crucial check system. “If a resident doesn’t show up, we call their room to check on them,” Strauch says.
Offering comfortable, safe, affordably-priced independent-style living while still respecting the independence, dignity, and privacy of its residents is what has made Brandon Wood known as the best-kept secret in Morton.
For more information, contact Brandon Wood Retirement Community at 309-263-7341, or visit them at 730 W. Jefferson Street, Morton, IL 61550.