ASK AMY KOCH
A monthly column from the Executive Director of the Charles Ford Retirement Community of New Harmony

Describe the Assisted Living Services and Facility You Manage 

We asked Amy Koch, executive director of the Charles Ford Retirement Community, to describe the assisted living services and facility she manages:

“Generally speaking,” Amy said, “the Charles Ford Retirement Community is a lovely home that provides long-term housing and care for seniors. Our assisted living residents are relatively active, but they may need some support with activities of daily living.  We provide that support through personalized care, nutritious meals, a wide range of social activities to cater to a variety of interests, and a sense of community in a safe, residential setting.  We focus our services and amenities on three important aspects of senior wellness: Physical health, intellectual stimulation, and social connection.  These aspects have been shown to slow cognitive decline and help seniors stay healthier and happier longer.

“At the Charles Ford Retirement Community,” she explained, “care coordination, medication management, nutritious meals, complimentary transportation, housekeeping, laundry, home maintenance and repairs, are among the many features that assist in making life easier for seniors.  Along with these services, we must not fail to mention, the peace of mind gained by families and the improved quality of life achieved by residents when they receive the support they need.  It’s very comforting for families when they find their loved ones enjoying the regular company of other residents, while receiving the consistent and loving care of our staff members.  Additionally, the Charles Ford Retirement Community offers comfort and convenience by offering other amenities, including beauty salon and barbershop services, a communal garden, spa and fitness areas, and a vibrant life enrichment program.

“Generally speaking,” Amy said, “I would describe our seniors as active individuals, who remain relatively independent with the exception of certain specific daily tasks. While they may have some health problems, they do not require 24-hour medical care and constant supervision; yet, they find assurance in knowing the Charles Ford Retirement Community is staffed with nursing care, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

“Additionally, the Charles Ford facility, in which we are housed, has a unique history, since it started out as a beautifully built private residence and still maintains its lovely unique characteristics, even with the expansions and updates that modernize the accommodations, making it an even lovelier place for senior to reside.

“Over my years as the home’s administrator, I’ve found our residents to be primarily interested in enjoying a maintenance-free lifestyle.  They love living in a vibrant community that offers a variety of social activities with the opportunity to remain engaged with friends and peers, and the staff feels privileged to work in such a unique setting with people who have become like family.”