Miss Dorothy N. has become a famous member of the Wesley Enhanced Living Upper Moreland family—not only because of her impressive age of 102, but also because of her spunkiness! She tells everyone who asks that the secret to longevity is: “good bourbon.”
Dorothy, or Dotty as she is known, came to us six years ago as an Independent Living resident. After a fall, she moved to a Personal Care Suite. She did not want to give up her independent status, but she knew it was necessary. Now, she is grateful for the peace of mind of having the staff check on her often, knowing that all her needs will be met.
While it has been tough for Dotty to outlive friends and family, she loves the birthday parties that Upper Moreland throws for each of her milestone years. “It feels good to be celebrated,” she says. She appreciates the attention and the feeling of belonging in the community. “Everyone is always willing to help one another. There is definitely that sense of family, which is nice when you don’t actually have much family around.”
A typical day for Dotty begins with a hearty breakfast. Breakfast, after all, is her favorite meal! The staff in the Personal Care dining room know to serve up her usual: Raisin Bran, two eggs over easy, toast, and bacon. Then she might play a competitive game of Scrabble and later check out a concert or other live entertainment often featured in the main lobby, the community room, or the theater.
After a full day, Dotty is ready to retire. “Before I came to Wesley Enhanced Living,” she says, “I wasn’t a great sleeper. Now, I feel so peaceful and comfortable, I sleep like a baby!”