Helen Greathouse Assisted Living at Manor Park in Midland, TX

Helen Greathouse Manor (HGM) is a vital part of the Manor Park care system.  Each resident can find tailored plans designed to provide maximum independence while still meeting the individual’s needs. This tenured staff brings 47 years’ experience with Manor Park Inc. between them. Steven Calley states, “Everyone does Assisted  Living differently.  Our added services allow Manor Park residents to remain independent longer.” Some of these supports include:

• Medication services
• Bathing assistance
• Transfer assists

Residents transferring to HGM are required to have a current History & Physical and Physicians Orders  as part of their admission criteria.  A great benefit to Assisted   Living is that though a Resident admitting only need  base services, it is comforting knowing additional services of nursing assistance are available should their needs change in the future.  Ms. Felix noted that a small staff allows a more personal relationship with staff and residents, which allows them to see changes in physical conditions in a timely manner. The ability to contact a doctor for meds and labs also increases the benefit to assist residents through these changes. The results are staying longer and not needing to move to a higher level of care as quickly.  She adds this is due to proper care and family support.

Residents transferring following a stay in rehab may come in needing additional services, and over time their physical condition improves so that additional services are no longer needed and are discontinued.   Mr. Calley says, one often asked question is whether residents are allowed to “come and go as they please”.  The answer is an unequivocal “YES”.

Rodney Berzoza, Admissions and Resident Care Specialist for HGM adds, “Things that become obstacles in Independent Living are not obstacles in Assisted    Living.  Those who are unable manage their medications, are not eating properly, and need transportation find these services are all provided at HGM.” 

Increasing socialization is a prime concern here and all agree social life greatly impacts the aging process.   “Social integration, the opposite of social isolation, has been found to be generally beneficial to health across adulthood into old age” (Cornell Institute for Translational Research on Aging, Research Review, March 2007). Eating meals together in the dining room, organized socials, exercise groups, and HGM outings are just some of the ways this isolation is combatted at HGM.  HGM doesn’t mean you stop living; you just have the option of doing it with assistance.

By Liz Meredith