Active Adult Communities Anthology of Meridian Hills 10/13/2020 | By Seniors Guide Staff A Peaceful Oasis in the Heart of Indy’s North Side Walking into the grand entrance of Anthology of Meridian Hills, one immediately senses they’re in a high-end community. Although the building offers a lot of well-appointed space, there’s the feeling of a warm, inviting home. Nestled on the corner of a bustling area near major shopping and dining zones, once inside the lobby, there’s a calm, peaceful vibe. It’s like entering an idyllic oasis in the midst of a busy world. When Bigger Isn’t Better With 55 assisted living and 30 memory care apartments, everyone knows everyone. Caryl Houghton, director of sales says, “We know each resident on a personal level and closely connect with their families as well.” Caryl shares how being smaller allows them to be responsive to the current interests of residents. “When James was on Jeopardy – several residents were rooting for him, so we had Jeopardy watch parties. We even made T-shirts for the avid fans. Such fun!” Theater at Anthology Of Meridian Hills Additionally, Lisa Van Tassel, director of marketing, mentions a memory care resident who has a granddaughter getting married soon. “Logistically, it would be challenging for her to attend the wedding. We’re helping reenact the wedding here with all the residents as guests. Official invitations are being sent and all the stops are being pulled out for this!” Caryl adds, “We have a resident who plays in a ping-pong club. The quarantine kept him from going, so we got a ping-pong table here! It’s become a popular activity and many of the residents are learning to play.” Activities are customized to residents; not the other way around. The Monday to Friday social hour allows residents to get together, have a glass of wine, and chat before they go to dinner. There’s something for everyone! Tien and fellow resident JoAnn share a game of ping pong. The Environment Courtyard The interior design is unparalleled. Hand-picked pieces speak to the local culture and much of the artwork is by local artists or depicts Indiana history. Since most residents lived or worked nearby, there’s a feeling of familiarity that brings a sense of belonging. The covered patio and gardens nestled out back give a feeling of being in the country. A putting green, garden boxes, dog park, walking paths, and impeccable landscaping keep residents enjoying the outdoor life. Heat lamps and a gas fireplace on the patio allow the enjoyment to continue throughout the fall. Memory care residents enjoy the fountain and pergola in a secured courtyard area, giving them freedom in a safe haven. The Dining Experience With six culinary credentialed graduates in the kitchen, the dining experience is exceptional. Monthly cooking events provide opportunity for residents to comment on what they like, how dishes can be improved, and what new culinary creations might be a hit. With open dining from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., residents can eat when THEY choose. For example, resident likes to sleep late, and has his coffee while most others are having lunch. And if someone wants dessert at 3 p.m. – they can have it at 3 p.m. The Lifestyle Executive director Max Jones says, “We created a boutique-style option that’s quaint and responsive to our residents’ wishes. We pride ourselves on being highly accommodating and giving personalized care with flair.” Therapist pet Lido (left) helps out with several residents’ sessions and resident pet Miss Perfect is a partner in her owners’ program. Residents requiring rehab have access five days a week to physical, occupational, and speech therapists who are part of the Anthology of Meridian Hills family. They take a very personal interest in the successes of residents and work closely by their sides to achieve goals. Caryl Houghton shares, “Pets are part of the family here! One resident has a dog who has become part of her therapy program, and one of our therapists has her dog help out as well. We take what residents enjoy and incorporate it in their healthcare plan, making it fun and engaging! Caryl adds “We’ve had fishing trips, lunar eclipse parties, pontoon trips on Geist, State Fair outings, ice cream rides; [we’ve] picked raspberries, visited parks … they name it, and we do it! We accommodate the lifestyle residents want and don’t make them fit into OUR idea of what they want. It’s simple; if you want to know what someone wants, you ask them and then listen!” Call Anthology of Meridian Hills at 317.643.5788 to arrange a time to visit and see for yourself! AnthologySeniorLiving.com Read More Seniors Guide Staff Seniors Guide has been addressing traditional topics and upcoming trends in the senior living industry since 1999. We strive to educate seniors and their loved ones in an approachable manner, and aim to provide them with the right information to make the best decisions possible.