Doc is a brilliant scientist, with a PhD in Biophysics/Physiology, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer type dementia in 2008. Due to his condition, Doc can't remember what he did five minutes ago, yet the "feeling" of what happened, he remembers for hours. As you can imagine, this makes it very hard for Doc to be left alone and without someone to look after him. My mom, Judy, has cancer and often feels week, leaving her with little energy to care for Doc. To aid her effort, my family and I do our best to pitch in and take care of my Dad as often as we can. That being said, our ongoing obligations of work, school, caring for our children, and trying to find some leisure time in between, often leave us wishing for a better alternative to suit our situation. As we searched for options, we soon found they were limited at best, especially in the Washington County Area. It wasn't safe for my Dad to be home alone, and he did not qualify for a long-term care facility. Besides, we were not prepared to let him go on a full time basis. What we needed was a place in between; a place that could soothe our worries and the guilt we felt in leaving him home during the day. We were looking for a place that was comfortable, and not too far from home. Somewhere where my Dad could find purpose, independence in his days, a place he could socialize amongst his peers and make friends; and most importantly, a place that felt like home. As our search continued, the process became exceedingly frustrating, as finding a single place that fulfilled all of our needs appeared seemingly imposable. With my extensive experience as a nurse in the geriatric field, I asked myself "couldn't I open my own place?" A place that incorporated all the positive things I saw in the process of looking, and built upon the less desirable qualities that I found as well. In my journey to make this dream come true, I shared my idea with my dear friend Candace who inspired me to make this vision a reality. With their partnership, we have done just that by creating Our Place Senior Center. We are blessed to have the opportunity to serve those who share a similar story to the one that has sparked this venture, and honored to welcome you to OUR PLACE.
