Westminster Village in Terre Haute is a community that is full of different stories and backgrounds coming together onto one campus. Occasionally, we have the privilege of highlighting these stories to help shed some light on what has shaped our residents and team members into who they are today. We’ve recently had the opportunity to sit down with our Director of Marketing and Sales, Deana Wilson, to hear how her journey as a caregiver for her father has shaped her perspective as she supports the mission of Westminster Village, as well as why she serves on the Terre Haute Alzheimer’s Walk Committee.
Deana’s Care Story
Deana Wilson’s journey with Alzheimer’s is deeply personal, rooted in the six years she spent caring for her father, who lived with the disease until his passing at 75. In the early stages of his diagnosis, Deana’s father was able to remain in his own home. However, managing his daily needs required Deana’s constant attention and care. “I traveled to see him on the weekends to check on him, take him to doctor appointments, shop for groceries, clean, and make sure laundry and other chores were done.” But as his condition progressed, Deana quickly realized she could not do it alone.
“Once his disease progressed, it literally took a village to make sure my dad was safe, had his medications, and was supported in every way possible.” She explains. Living in a small hometown was a blessing during these challenging times, as neighbors and family members played an essential role in keeping him safe. Deana acknowledges that, “If he had not lived in that town, having other family members and friends who also lived in that town who looked out for him when I couldn’t, there is no way he could have stayed in his home as long as he did.”
Eventually, when it became too dangerous for her father to live alone, Deana made the difficult decision to transition him to a memory care community. This step was necessary to ensure he received around-the-clock care. “I made the decision to move him to a memory care community where there were staff trained to assure his health, well-being, and safety twenty-four hours a day,” Deana reflects, highlighting how vital professional support is in the later stages of Alzheimer’s.
Learn if now is the right time to downsize.
How Deana’s Story Impacts Her Today
“I have worked my entire career in the field of senior living and have been exposed to the challenges of living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias for many years,” Deana shares. However, it wasn’t until Alzheimer’s affected her own family that Deana truly understood the depth of the struggle. “But until the disease landed on my own doorstep, I did not have a full understanding of what all families of someone living with Alzheimer’s were enduring.” Experiencing the emotional, physical, and logistical challenges firsthand changed her perspective, giving her a deeper empathy and a stronger commitment to supporting families walking the same difficult path. Deana’s personal journey now informs her work every day, as she connects with families and residents facing similar situations, as well as work with the Alzheimer’s Walk Committee. Her story allows her to provide not just professional guidance but also heartfelt support and understanding.
Deana’s Passion for Senior Living
For Deana, working in senior living is more than just a career; it’s a calling. “As I shared, I have spent my career serving, who I feel are the most valued members of our society, our seniors.” She emphasizes. Deana views aging not as a decline, but as a privilege, believing that every stage of life has purpose and value. “We are all aging – it is a gift to be aging! And just because we are getting older, retired, and in the later season of life doesn’t mean we lose value or that our life is over.”
The residents at Westminster Village are a constant source of inspiration. “There is not one day that goes by that I am not inspired by someone who lives in the community in which I work.”
She shares. With an average age of 84, the residents at Westminster Village continue to contribute in remarkable ways. Deana observes them actively participating in committees, volunteering with local organizations, and even maintaining full-time careers. “It isn’t over until it’s over, and the people I see every day are still learning, serving, growing, and contributing!”
Seeing these vibrant individuals gives Deana hope for her own future. “Watching these amazing people helps me to see the future I want to have and to know that it is possible.” She reflects, reinforcing her belief in the limitless potential of every person, regardless of age.
Learn how senior living can work in your budget.
Encouragement for Others Like Deana
Deana knows firsthand how overwhelming it can be to care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, but her message to others is clear: “Reach out for help and support!” She stresses the importance of taking advantage of the many resources available, both locally and through national organizations. “There are resources available in our city and through the Alzheimer’s Association that can support you and provide you with resources.”
Deana also offers a message of hope for families dealing with Alzheimer’s today. “For the first time, we have treatments that can change the course of Alzheimer’s.” She shares, highlighting recent advancements in research and treatment options. She emphasizes the vital role of the Alzheimer’s Association, describing it as *“the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.”
Above all, Deana wants others to know they don’t have to face the challenges of Alzheimer’s alone. “You are not in this alone!” She reassures, urging families to seek the support they need to navigate the difficult journey ahead.
Conclusion
Deana Wilson’s journey as a caregiver and her subsequent dedication to senior living exemplify the strength and resilience found within our community at Westminster Village Terre Haute. This vibrant campus brings together diverse stories and backgrounds, creating a supportive environment where residents and staff alike inspire one another. Deana’s insights into the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s not only inform her work but also highlight the importance of connection and support.
As Deana emphasizes, “You are not in this alone!” Westminster Village is here to provide not just a place to live but a community where aging is celebrated, and every individual is valued. If you’re navigating the journey of caring for an aging loved one or seeking a supportive environment for yourself, we invite you to discover how Westminster Village can make a meaningful difference in your life today. Contact us to learn more about our community and the resources available to you!
