Olive Branch Assisted Living Cares for Seniors in Their Golden Years
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The olive branch has stood as a symbol of hope and peace for generations, and Dickson’s Olive Branch Assisted Living is no exception.
The county’s largest and newest assisted living center offers residents the safety and convenience of home, minus the worries that often accompany home ownership or living alone.
“This is just a nice place for residents to spend their latter years,” says Martha Bullington, administrator and co-owner of Olive Branch Assisted Living. “Residents don’t feel as though they’re imposing on their children, and children know their parents are being cared for.”
Built in 1995, Olive Branch offers residents 39 private rooms, each equipped with a microwave, refrigerator and private bath.
Assistance is provided for daily living activities, and a 24-hour emergency call system helps keep residents safe day or night. Seniors have peace of mind knowing that a resident assistant is available around the clock, while the center’s registered nurse and licensed practical nurse help monitor medications. And to help make residents’ golden years as stress-free as possible, Olive Branch provides three meals a day in a full-service dining room and personal housekeeping and laundry services.
“Our smaller size allows us to provide more personal care and be more attentive to residents’ needs,” Bullington says.
Though residents are free to come and go as they please, the center offers plenty of reasons to stay and play.
Seniors can read, relax or cultivate new friendships in the landscaped courtyard. Inside, a bustling beauty salon helps clients look and feel their best, while a twice-weekly exercise class keeps attendees young at heart.
Bingo and other games are played weekly, though the recreation room is open daily for the residents to enjoy a game of cards or an evening of television. Residents also are treated to on-site entertainment each week, and worship services are conducted every Sunday.
For seniors 62 and over with fewer assistance needs, Olive Branch operates six independent living villas built in 2007. The maintenance-free, one- and two-bedroom homes include a full kitchen and washer and dryer, and many feature one- or two-car garages.
Residents also have the option to purchase meals in Olive Branch’s dining room and participate in the center’s many activities. Bullington says six additional villas are expected to open in 2008 and will be available by purchase, life lease or monthly rental.
Regardless of which option seniors choose, they’re sure to find an affordable, comfortable place to call home.
“We strive to have a clean, safe environment and give residents what they want,” Bullington says.
Story by Melanie Hill
Photo by Brian McCord
