Like many soon-to-be residents of senior living communities, Bob Houck was reluctant about downsizing and making the move, but he was willing to give it a try.
“I didn’t want to come, but my wife, Martha, needed some extra care,” he says. “As we settled in, I soon saw that she was getting the support she needed, and I started to appreciate everything that the community offers. Now, I’m glad it’s my home.”
“It’s very common for new residents to feel a little hesitant about transitioning into senior living,” says Kristel Lastine, Executive Director. “But once they are here, they quickly see the benefits of the no-maintenance lifestyle, welcoming neighbors, a bustling activity schedule, restaurant-style meals, supportive care, and 24-hour access to staff in case of emergencies. I hear it from residents — and their adult children — all the time: ‘This is great. We should have moved in sooner.’”
Throughout his life, Houck has taken on new challenges and new experiences. “I was in the advertising business, but when I felt like I needed a change of pace, I took a chance and went to work in a hardware store,” he says. “It turned out to be great. The owner was wonderful, and I ended up managing the business for several years.”
When a hardware store was for sale just a block from his home, he and a partner decided to take the leap and buy it, and it thrived. Then, after selling the business, Houck retired, and he and Martha went on an exciting three-month adventure, driving to Alaska.
“Two of our six children live up there,” he says. “Our son built his own house into the side of a mountain on Kodiak Island. It was a special trip.”
While the care Martha needed was a factor in choosing The Preserve of Roseville, the community appealed to the couple because it allowed them to stay close to their children who call St. Paul home.
Local familial ties remain important, but Houck was pleased to make new connections in his new community. When Martha passed away recently, having a network of support right outside his door was very helpful.
Seniors who live by themselves, outside of a senior living community, can easily become socially isolated after the death of a spouse — especially if they are no longer driving as often. This newfound isolation often leads to depression and can bring on a rapid physical decline.
One of Houck’s new friends is Dan Reding, who has the distinction of choosing to live at The Preserve twice. “My wife Joanne and I moved in about three years ago due to health concerns, and we enjoyed our time together here,” he says. “I have had several brain tumors and complications from surgery, so the comfort of knowing care is readily available brings great peace of mind.” Reding added, “When Joanne needed to go to a higher level of care, I joined her for a year. After she passed away, I decided to come back for the quality of care available, as well as the spacious apartments. The Preserve is comfortable and clean and, while I can no longer drive, I really like the central location and going for walks in the Harriet Alexander Nature Preserve, which is the community’s backyard.”
“This community is in a perfect location for people who enjoy nature walking,” Houck agrees. “The boardwalks over the marshes in the Preserve are great, and Central Park, which is right across the street, has even more trails to explore. Plus, there are beautiful gardens at the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum right next to the park.”
The Preserve of Roseville also has plenty to offer its residents, whether they live independently or need some assisted living support.
“There are lots of activities for people to enjoy at their own pace. The activities director is always on the move, making fun things happen for everybody. I enjoy our daily happy hours and frequent parties,” he laughs.
Residents in the Memory Care neighborhood also enjoy several engaging activities throughout the day specially modified for their needs and preferences.
Join Us for Lunch
If you or a loved one is looking to make the move to senior living, please consider scheduling a tour. And if you book a tour any Tuesday or Friday between 11:30 and 1:30, you can have lunch on us. You’ll get the chance to meet staff and get the inside scoop from current residents.
“If you’re anything like me, you might be surprised by how much you’d like it here,” says Houck. “But be warned — food here is phenomenal. Chef Steven does a great job, and I have to back away from the table at a certain point, because overeating is easy when everything’s so tasty. Bring your appetite.”
Visit https://preserveofroseville.com/tour-and-lunch/ or call 952-952-6720 to schedule your visit.
