When it's time to leave home
By Patricia Nugent
Len and Ellie Stitt’s active lifestyle, filled with walks to Coe Lake, exercise classes and a diet based on freshly prepared foods, can be accredited to the enviable shape they are in. At 87 and 90 years old, they look and act decades younger than they should.
The upbeat parents to eight, grandparents to 24 and great-grandparents to 12 say that three years ago they “just knew it was time,” to move from their home in Berea to Berea Lake Towers, A Generations Senior Living Community.
“Len had undergone back surgery, I had a hip replacement and keeping up the home and garden chores seemed like an increasing burden to us,” says Ellie. “Even preparing all of our meals was getting to be a bit much.”
They toured senior living communities all over the west side, but kept coming back to Berea Lake Towers for its centralized, park-like location, activities, facilities and, most importantly, its people.
“It’s hard to explain the feeling we got when we walked through the doors,” says Ellie. “Everyone was so genuine and kind.”
Generations Senior Living Regional Marketing Director Kimberly Bergmann says that operating as a family-owned business instead of a national conglomeration, like many communities, is partly responsible for the top-to-bottom resident-first approach.
“The second generation of the Robert M. Coury family has filled the shoes of the first generation nicely,” says Executive Director Jodi Collins. “And that’s a really good thing. Since their headquarters are right across the street, they are here all the time. Every decision that’s made serves the resident experience first.”
The staff is as dependable as it is wonderful, and care managers are on duty 24/7.
Location, Location, Location
Nestled in the heart of charming downtown Berea, this independent and assisted living community is just around the corner within easy walking distance from everything people need, from the library across the parking lot and grocery store down the street, to the bank, post office, police station and shopping.
The community overlooks the serene setting skirting the waters of Coe Lake, encircled with lit walkways that lead to a picnic-perfect gazebo.
Getting a Move On
Ellie and Len take full advantage of the exercise classes and can be found working out several times a week, whether it’s Tai Chi or synchronized movement to music. They also walk the perimeter of the building three times a day after meals.
In addition to exercise classes, there are a host of daily and weekly activities, including continuing education and art classes, as well as day trips to keep residents busy.
Socially, the darling duo enjoys having family visit them either at the Berea Lake Towers or a nearby walk away at a café in the triangle.
As serious foodies, the Stitts have become big fans of Chef Freddy over the years and are hard-pressed to pick their favorite homemade breakfasts, lunches and dinners. For her it’s Chicken Cordon Bleu, and for him it’s anything Italian, especially lasagna and eggplant Parmesan.
“And he makes, hands-down, the best short ribs in town,” she says.
Dazzling New Apartments Open
In January 2017, Berea Lake Towers expanded as three new premium apartments debuted, taking the total number of suites to 97. Like the others, the spacious apartments boast full kitchens with plenty of storage throughout.
Jodi reports the new units feature stainless steel appliances and granite countertops.
At the end of the day, all the parts come together for a luxurious and supportive independent lifestyle.
Says Ellie, “These will be the final years of our lives, why not make them as pleasant and memorable as possible?”
Berea Lake Towers – A Generations Senior Living Community is located at 4 Berea Commons, in downtown Berea. Short-term and respite care is also available (30 Day Minimum Stay). For more information or to schedule a tour, call 440-243-9050, or visit GenerationsHCM.com/BLT to view the virtual tour.