Woodland Terrace, a Home Away From Home

As people begin to age and their needs change, sometimes they, or their children, consider a senior living community to help with the day-to-day care and responsibilities.  Woodland Terrace at The Oaks, 1263 S Cedar Crest Blvd., Salisbury Township, is one of those communities.

Erika Weber, community relations manager since October 2010, said Woodland Terrace is for seniors who need minimal assistance or memory care services. 

"It is a homelike atmosphere with individual freedom and responsibilities,” Weber said.

Q & A with Erika Weber, community relations manager at Woodland Terrace at The Oaks:

What is assisted living and why would someone choose it?  Does the definition of assisted living vary from state to state? 

“The definition does vary throughout the states.  In Pennsylvania, communities can no longer use the term ‘assisted living’ without a special license.  Most communities are now referred to as ‘personal care’ or ‘senior living communities’.  People choose senior living when they need non-medical care for their everyday needs, such as dressing, bathing, going places, socialization, etc.”

What makes Woodland Terrace unique? 

“The building has been in this location since 1996, and was formerly Sunrise of Allentown.  It was purchased in April 2011 by Good Neighbor Care, a national company with its headquarters in the state of Washington.

“What sets us apart from other communities is we treat our residents like family.  This is their home.  We have a very active social calendar—there is something for everyone.  Personal care givers become very close to the residents and will even attend their funerals.”

Can people withor other forms of dementia reside here?

“Absolutely.  About 60-70 percent of the residents have some form of dementia.  We will be opening a special memory care unit soon for residents with more severe forms of dementia.  It will be completely secured, so they can’t wander out.  The focus of treatment in this unit will be with validation therapy, in which residents can talk about their needs and wants, feelings and thoughts, memories, etc.”

How many people live here?

“Currently, there are 66 residents, but that will increase when the special memory care unit opens.  The age range is 61-99, with 75 percent being women.  There are couples living here, and we are in the process of converting some of our single units to accommodate more couples. 

“Every resident also wears a call pendant in case of an emergency, so we can respond immediately.  Transportation is provided for medical appointments.”

What activities are available?

“We have quite a variety of activities for everyone to participate in:  daily exercise classes, word games and bingo, professional entertainers, lounge area for socialization, church services, transportation for shopping trips, meal outings, trips to Radio City Music Hall, sports outings, and more.  We also have a library full of books, puzzles and games.”

Who should people contact if they want more information?

“They can contact me, Erika Weber, at 610-433-9220.”