SL_profile_Arbor Terrace_0424_Layout 1 5 / 3 / 24 2 : 24 PM Page 1 Connected by Bill Donahue | photos by Jody Robinson who are able and interested can participate in regular excursions to enjoy the richness of the community’s Chester County surround - At Arbor Terrace Exton , residents in need of personal care or ings . Arbor Terrace Exton is particularly well memory care become part of a supportive community built on known for its culinary program , courtesy of enrichment , engagement , and independence . DashaunLondon . As the community’s director of dining services , London oversees the menu very life transition comes with its share of hardships , though some are more creation , ordering , staffing , and food prepa - challenging than others . For older adults with age - related difficulties such as ration , among other duties ; he even helps to cognitive decline and limited mobility or dexterity , making the transition preparelunches for residents ’ field trips . One Efrom their longtime home to a communal setting can be a steep climb ofthe most demanding yet satisfying aspects indeed . of his job involves coordinating celebrations Enter Arbor Terrace Exton , which strives to make the transition as smooth as possible for arounda full calendar of holidays , everything individuals in need of personal care and memory care . The community’s highly trained and from Christmas and Passover to Cinco de compassionate staff goes “ above and beyond ” to help each resident approach each day with Mayoand Martin Luther King Day . hope , dignity , and a sense of purpose , according to Sue Haines , the community’s executive London began his culinary career as a director . teenager . Since then he has honed his skills “ When a resident moves to this community , maybe she or he has lost a spouse , and they invarious kitchens , including working as the want the safety and security of having other people around , ” says Haines . “ We understand executivechef for a restaurant in Philadelphia . that it can be a difficult time for residents and their adult children who want to help their He also has prior experience in geriatric parents rediscover their independence . The environment we’ve created here provides health care — he spent time working as a [ residents ] with the opportunity to make friends , share new experiences with others , and certified medication technician — though he return to doing things they enjoy , even if it’s something as simple as celebrating the holidays . ” feelshe’s able to best serve seniors by putting Haines , who joined Arbor Terrace Exton in February , brings to the community a wealth of his culinary talents to good use . administrative experience in nursing homes and long - term - care communities . She also has “ Ifeel like my role here is very important , ” the wisdom of personal experience ; her mother currently lives in another community in the he says . “ Food is part of everything we do , Philadelphia area closer to other members of the family . and I’m here to make residents happy . Part “ Seeing my mother go from lonely to engaged to saying , ‘ I can’t have lunch with you of that comes from inviting residents ’ family today because I’m having lunch with the girls , ’ meaning her fellow residents , that’s a win , ” members to every special event . We’ve had she says . “ That’s the same dynamic we strive for here — helping residents feel safe , happy , and someamazing turnouts . A few of [ residents ’ well taken care of . They look out for one another , and they learn to become whole again . ” family members ] have even told me they Residents benefit from amenities such as a fitness center , a professional concierge , and an prefer our food over what they get at restau - on - site salon and spa , as well as spacious grounds ideal for strolling and exploring . Also , those rants . I love that kind of feedback . ” SUBURBANLIFEMAGAZINE.COM VOLUME 15 ISSUE 8 24 |