“We were so impressed with Otterbein when I first came here that I had no need to even go any further or look anywhere else.” - Janet, Otterbein St. Marys resident family member
Otterbein St. Marys sits on the shores of Ohio’s largest inland lake near the city of St. Marys. The continuing care retirement community offers waterfront homes, apartments, assisted living, and nursing care.
In this video blog, you’ll meet Janet, spouse of resident Bill, and you’ll also meet resident Barbara K. and her daughter Tash. They share what they enjoy most about the community and explain how the partners (staff) exceed their expectations.
Providing Care, Life-Enriching Activities, and Peace of Mind
Janet’s husband, Bill, was in a snowmobile accident 10 years ago that changed his health and care needs. After meeting his care needs at home for over two years, she felt overwhelmed trying to balance her job and caregiving responsibilities.
“I was having a moment at work, and one of my customers came in and said, ‘Why don’t you try Otterbein?’” says Janet. “And I had no clue who Otterbein was.”
After visiting Otterbein St. Marys, Janet knew it was the right place for Bill. And she feels peace of mind knowing Bill receives personalized care from a dedicated team.
“The staff has been really good,” says Janet. “We’re like friends — I’m friends with them.”
Bill has found many life-enriching activities within the community too. An avid boater all his life, Bill has been especially fond of the waterfront location and access to a pontoon boat right on campus.
“I can take Bill out, and I can walk him over to the lake,” says Janet. “We usually go to the point where the gazebo is, and he’ll just sit there and just watch as the boats come in and out.”
Bill also enjoys the indoor pool, boat rides, playing bingo, and watching movies. Janet feels grateful knowing he’s having fun and living each day to the fullest.
“It’s just such a great place,” says Janet. “If you’re ever looking for a place, this would be the one. I feel at peace knowing he’s here, and I don’t have to worry.”
Related: From Rehabilitation to Independent Living at Otterbein St. Marys: Mary’s Story >>
Finding Friendship and Comfort After a Loss
After the loss of her husband, Barbara realized she didn’t want to live alone. With the help of her family, including her daughter Tash, Barbara thought she should give Otterbein St. Marys a try.
“It has been a wonderful thing for her to be over here,” says Tash. “She’s healthy and happy, and it’s been a really good time.”
The community’s location was ideal for Barbara and her family. The proximity to the lake and the fact that her daughters lived a short distance away were important factors in her decision to move here.
“What we like best about Otterbein is the location,” says Tash. “It was perfect for us. I just live 10 minutes down the road. I’ve got another sister that lives 15 minutes down the road. It was comfortable coming here.”
“The people that work here — they’re all very nice, and they’re more like family,” says Barbara.
Barbara has loved the pontoon boat rides and also riding around in the Amphicars at Lake Fest. She also appreciates the friendships with other residents and staff.
“You have the freedom to go and come as you please,” says Barbara. “I have an old three-wheel bicycle, and I love to ride that bicycle around.”
Tash and her family are thankful her mom is comfortable and happy at Otterbein St. Marys. They also appreciate the communication with the staff and how they care for her mother.
“The staff has been wonderful — very, very attentive to her,” says Tash. “Any time we have questions or concerns, we’ve always had answers given to us. And we just know that somebody is always right there to help her.”
Related: A Tale of Two Sisters: Meet Sandy and Judy [Video] >>
Discover Continuing Care at Otterbein St. Marys
If you’d like to learn more about Otterbein St. Marys, visit our website to discover lifestyle choices, available services, amenities, floor plans, and more. You’ll also find additional video testimonials to see what life is like here.
