SouthWest Commons Assisted Living creates the feeling of being at home with family
By Mimi Vanderhaven
SouthWest Commons Assisted Living in Strongsville has a unique approach to serving residents and their families. It revolves around four core values that staff members consider in everything they do: Independence, Privacy, Dignity and Choice drive the mission of SouthWest Commons.
“These values are at the heart of everything we do here,” says Community Director and RN Katie Delligatti.
“We work with residents and their families as a whole unit when decisions are made regarding care. It’s about treating people with respect and allowing them to maintain their privacy and dignity. SouthWest Commons is their home and we are here to make sure they are happy, healthy and safe.”
Life at SouthWest Commons
Ensuring the comfort and privacy of residents starts with their own apartment home, complete with a full bathroom and kitchenette. Residents are encouraged to bring furniture and decor from home to help with the transition. Even pets are welcome.
“Residents like having their own private space where they can enjoy quiet time or invite people in, just like at home,” says Katie. “And help is right outside your door when needed. The residential design of the building provides a real home-like atmosphere.”
The circular floor plan of the building allows for residents to independently get to the dining room, the Commons Cabaret pub, activities throughout the building, or simply visit neighbors without getting lost. Home is always just around the corner.
“Whether a resident is experiencing memory decline, is wheelchair bound or has other needs, no one is separated at any time throughout their journey here,” says Katie.
“Residents don’t move to another area of the building if they experience declining mental or physical health. Care comes to them when they need it, and we introduce additional safety procedures and increase monitoring as necessary.”
The care at SouthWest Commons is based on the individual needs of each resident.
Services at SouthWest Commons
“We like to say that we emphasize the ‘assist’ part of assisted living,” says Katie. “We have no intention of taking over your life. Our residents live by their own clock, not ours. Our goal is to be here when you need us.”
Hospitality services, housekeeping, dining services and courtesy transportation are all provided at SouthWest Commons. Residents use the private dining room to entertain family and friends, and a beauty/barber shop is available in the building.
SouthWest Commons offers all personal care services, such as assisting with dressing, grooming, bathing and ambulating. Healthcare services include routine health assessments by a staff registered nurse, chronic disease management, medication assistance and hospice care.
Choosing SouthWest Commons
“If you or a loved one are just beginning to decline physically or mentally, it’s important to think about assisted living before it becomes an emergency,” says Katie.
As people age, change and transition can become even more challenging. Leaving one’s home and making the decision to transition to assisted living can be emotional for the entire family. SouthWest Commons is prepared to work with the individual and the family to help decide when the time is right.
“It’s important for elderly people to make this move when they are still able to build relationships and get comfortable in their new surroundings,” says Katie. “This gives residents time to enjoy everything we offer at SouthWest Commons—the activities, community events, the beautiful surroundings and, especially, the people.”
At SouthWest Commons, your neighbors become your friends—and there’s always something to celebrate.
“We have several group outings to restaurants, museums and community activities,” says Senior Living Counselor, Sharon Nicholas. “And celebrations and events always include family members. It’s an active place.”
“I couldn’t be happier,” says Leonora, who is a resident. “The staff is simply wonderful. I get up in the morning and they bring me my breakfast. I look forward to the day and I feel safe and secure.”
“I was at another assisted living before and I’m much happier here,” adds Robert, another SouthWest Commons resident. “The food is wonderful and the staff is like family.”
For more information about SouthWest Commons Assisted Living, please continue reading this four-page feature. The community is located at 18090 Pearl Road in Strongsville. To speak with a staff member or to schedule a tour, call 440-238-3777, check the website at LifeServicesAssistedLiving.com, or find them on Facebook.