Embracing Joy at Every Step of the Journey

“ClarkLindsey has been incredibly thoughtful and accessible throughout every level of care. I feel confident my mom is safe—even from several states away. She’s receiving excellent care and finds joy in helping others. I could have moved her closer, but I know she’s in the best possible place.” 

-Scott, Sue’s son 

Meet Sue. She and her husband shared a wonderful life together. After he passed away, their only son—who lived with his family in the Northeast—worried about Sue being on her own. Unsure of what the future might hold, Sue and her son decided she should move into an independent living apartment at ClarkLindsey, where she would have support available whenever she needed it. 

Sue quickly became involved in many resident groups and discovered that giving to others brought her purpose, joy, and deep connection. She joined other residents in making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches each week for the Canteen Run. She loved spending time with people, often inviting her neighbors to join her on shopping trips or social outings. 

When driving was no longer an option, Sue and her friends simply switched to using the ClarkLindsey van for their adventures. Later, when preparing meals became too difficult, Sue—along with her beloved cats, Bonnie and Clyde—moved to Assisted Living. There, she enjoyed three meals a day, unlimited snacks, and a level of support that allowed her to thrive. She still participated in the activities she loved in Independent Living, including swimming in the indoor pool. 

As time went on, Sue began losing her way when visiting other parts of the community. She started receiving help from the professionals at LindseyLife Home Care. They accompanied her to the pool in the mornings and helped her return safely to her Assisted Living apartment. Still, on days when her helpers were not nearby, Sue would sometimes wander and get lost. 

Today, Sue lives in Memory Care, where she continues to enjoy a full and meaningful life. She delights in visits from therapy dogs—and still gets plenty of cuddles from Bonnie and Clyde. She grows tomatoes in the raised garden beds in the secure Memory Care courtyard. Her desire to help others remains strong; just recently, she asked staff if she could bake cookies to share with residents in MeadowBrook Health Center and the Green House Homes, both of which offer skilled care services. Staff helped Sue fulfill her wish and bring joy to others. 

In addition to Memory Care’s activities and outings, Sue also visits LindseyLife Adult Day in Champaign, where she enjoys spending time with even more friends. LindseyLife Adult Day provides a structured environment for older adults, offering social interaction, recreational activities, and professional care during the day. 

Sue did not know how her needs would change over time. By choosing Lindsey Communities, she found a place where she could continue to thrive at every stage of her life.