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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.

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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!

Dining in senior living is constantly evolving, and it’s our responsibility to continue to offer excellent dining to residents and adapt to the changing needs of all who come into our community. From nutrition to taste, we are creating a dining experience that sets us apart from the rest. Here’s what you can expect when dining at Westminster Village.

The Dining Philosophy at Westminster Village

At Westminster Village, we believe in a balance of nutrition and flavor. For people ages 60 and up, diet is an extremely important part of maintaining wellness. However, we believe that nutritious meals don’t have to come at the expense of flavor. Our chefs work with fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft dishes that satisfy both the palate and the body. We prioritize whole grains, lean proteins, and vibrant fruits and vegetables, ensuring every meal is rich in essential nutrients. Yet, we never lose sight of the joy that comes from eating. Through creative seasoning, careful preparation, and a focus on wellness, our menus offer a variety of meals. At Westminster Village, residents don’t have to choose between eating well and eating happily. We believe that the right blend of nutrition and flavor can enhance the well-being of our residents, making every meal a moment to savor.

An Emphasis on Community

At Westminster Village, our commitment to fostering a vibrant, engaged community extends beyond providing exceptional meals prepared by our skilled culinary team. We also empower our residents to take an active role in shaping their dining experiences. By offering them the option to host their own luncheons or meals, we not only promote independence but also create meaningful opportunities for social interaction.

This approach reflects our belief that dining is not just about nourishment; it’s about connection. When residents are given the freedom to plan and prepare meals for their friends and loved ones, they can share their favorite recipes, reminisce over beloved dishes, and create new memories together. This hands-on involvement in the dining experience strengthens community bonds and enhances the sense of belonging that is so crucial in senior living.

Allowing residents to exercise their culinary creativity also acknowledges their unique tastes and preferences. Whether it’s a cherished family recipe or a new dish they’ve always wanted to try, our residents have the chance to craft meals that reflect their individuality. This autonomy reinforces the importance of personal choice and celebrates the diversity of our community.

By enabling residents to host their own meals, we ensure that dining at Westminster Village is not just a routine part of the day, but a personalized, communal experience that brings people together in the most meaningful way possible—around a shared table.

Meet Kris Kraut – Our New Culinary Visionary

As we work to provide the highest quality experience for our residents, we are strategic in bringing on the highest quality of staff. To ensure a consistently excellent dining experience, we added Kris Kraut as our executive chef. Chef Kris Kraut brings over 20 years of culinary expertise to the table, blending the precision of a seasoned chef with the vision of an accomplished entrepreneur. Originally from Terre Haute, Kris’s culinary journey began at his family’s bed and breakfast, where he mastered the art of flipping eggs and brewing coffee. These early experiences, rooted in family traditions, ignited his lifelong passion for food—a passion that continues to drive his creativity and commitment to excellence. His earliest food memories are filled with moments spent at the stove with his grandmother and great-grandmother, where he learned to prepare traditional Swedish and Czech dishes, a heritage that still influences his culinary style.

Kris’s career has been marked by both leadership and innovation. After honing his skills and leading the kitchens at his alma mater, Indiana State University, he ventured into entrepreneurship, founding a successful catering company, wedding venue, and coffee shop. Each of these endeavors reflected his dedication to quality ingredients, flawless presentation, and a harmonious blend of local and international flavors. Notably, Kris’s career highlights include cooking for Willie Nelson, serving meals to the Blue Angels, and catering a memorable five-night movie shoot in the cornfields of Illinois.

Beyond his professional achievements, Kris values the time he spends with his wife Gretchen and their three daughters, whether traveling, tending their garden, or hosting lively family dinner parties. Now, as the executive chef at Westminster Village, Kris is eager to bring his passion and creativity to our community. He looks forward to creating new culinary memories and experiences around the table, ensuring that every meal is not just about nourishment, but about bringing people together in a celebration of food, tradition, and community.

Experience the Best of Senior Living at Westminster Village

At Westminster Village, we understand that dining is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that nourishes both body and soul. Our commitment to balancing nutrition and flavor ensures that every dish delights the palate while supporting the well-being of our residents. But what truly sets us apart is our focus on community. We believe that the dining experience should foster connections, celebrate individuality, and create cherished memories. Whether it’s through our chef-prepared meals or resident-hosted gatherings, every meal at Westminster Village is an opportunity to bring people together.

With the addition of Chef Kris Kraut, whose 20 years of culinary expertise and passion for food are evident in every dish he creates, our dining program has reached new heights. His commitment to quality, creativity, and tradition reflects our broader mission to provide a vibrant and engaging environment for all who call Westminster Village home.

If you’re looking for a community that values both your health and happiness, where dining is a celebration of flavor, connection, and joy, Westminster Village is the place for you. Join us and discover a senior living experience where every meal is a moment to savor, and every day offers new opportunities to grow, flourish, and thrive.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience firsthand the warmth, community, and exceptional dining that make Westminster Village truly special.

We are witnessing a record-breaking number of retirees! Navigating life after retirement can be full of questions, and one of those questions might be where are you going to live? Whether you’re freshly retired or ready for a change of scenery, our apartments at Westminster Village in Terre Haute may be exactly what you’re looking for. See below for five benefits of moving into an independent living apartment.

True Independence

When making the move from your residence to a senior living community, it can be easy to wonder how you aren’t giving up some level of independence. Thankfully, at Westminster Village, you can be truly independent. We have designed a neighborhood experience for all of our residents to enjoy.

Imagine residential life as you know now, and that is what you will find at Westminster Village. The beauty of our community is that it not only provides you with the independence you are used to, but it also builds on this and creates the best social living experience possible.
We achieve this by providing our residents with a variety of luxuries that are designed to improve day-to-day life. From spacious, private apartments that you can personalize to your taste, to well-maintained communal areas that encourage socializing and recreation, every aspect of Westminster Village is designed with your comfort and independence in mind.
In essence, Westminster Village redefines what it means to live independently within a community. By combining personal freedom with a supportive, enriching environment, we create a place where you can thrive and truly enjoy life to the fullest.

Manageable Spaces

Another benefit of choosing to live at Westminster Village is the opportunity to move into a more manageable space. Downsizing can be a liberating experience, freeing you from the upkeep and maintenance of a larger home and allowing you to focus on enjoying your life to the fullest. At Westminster Village, we offer a range of living arrangements tailored to your needs, from cozy villas to spacious one and two-bedroom apartments, all designed with comfort and convenience in mind.

Our thoughtfully designed living spaces maximize every square foot, providing ample storage and functional layouts that make day-to-day living effortless. Each residence creates a warm and welcoming environment. Whether you prefer a quiet retreat or a lively gathering space, you can arrange your new home to reflect your personal style and needs with no wasted space.

Choosing to live at Westminster Village provides the perfect opportunity to transition into a more manageable and efficient living space. By reducing the burdens of home maintenance and embracing a simplified lifestyle, you can fully enjoy the independence, convenience, and enriching experiences that our community has to offer.

Is now the right time to downsize? Find out here.

Maintenance-Free Living

As you adopt a new space at Westminster Village, you can enjoy the luxury of maintenance-free living. In a traditional residence, you are responsible for maintenance, property taxes, and all the responsibilities that come with owning a home. At Westminster Village, our residents are liberated from these burdens, enjoying a lifestyle where every detail is taken care of for them.

Our residents can benefit from housekeeping services that keep their homes spotless and comfortable. Whether it’s dusting, vacuuming, or general cleaning, our professional housekeeping team ensures that your living space remains pristine, allowing you to spend your time on activities you love rather than on chores.

In addition to housekeeping, our comprehensive maintenance services cover all aspects of home upkeep. From routine repairs to more significant issues, our skilled maintenance team is always on hand to address any concerns promptly and efficiently. You no longer have to worry about fixing a leaky faucet, dealing with appliance malfunctions, or arranging for repairs; we handle it all for you.

Also, our dedicated groundskeeping staff takes care of lawn mowing, pruning, and seasonal plantings, ensuring that the outdoor areas are always inviting and well-kept. You can enjoy a picturesque lawn, all without lifting a finger.

By choosing Westminster Village, you embrace a lifestyle where the burdens of homeownership are lifted, giving you more freedom and flexibility to enjoy life. Our maintenance-free living ensures that your time and energy are spent on what truly matters – enjoying retirement.

Secure Environment

Although independence is a key part of retiring at Westminster Village, our community also offers residents safety and security that provide peace of mind for residents and their loved ones. While residents enjoy the convenience of electronic access across all buildings, we prioritize the safety of our residents with controlled access to our community for guests and visitors. In addition to this, we provide 24-hour emergency assistance, ready to respond to any situation at any time. This continuous support and vigilance mean that help is always just moments away, whether it’s a medical emergency or a simple need for assistance.

We understand that peace of mind extends beyond just security. Our dedicated staff is available around the clock to provide assistance with daily activities, transportation, and any other needs that may arise. By fostering a secure and supportive environment, we enable our residents to fully enjoy their retirement years with peace of mind.

Centralized Amenities

When a resident moves into our community, they gain access to a variety of on-site amenities designed to make their lives easier and more enjoyable. Although we love our local, Terre Haute community, we understand transportation can be limited. With restaurant-style dining, multiple coffee kiosks, a Village Store, Beauty Salon, Village Spa, a library, and so much more right on campus, our residents have all the essentials in close proximity. This convenience removes the stress of arranging transportation and brings everything close to home. By providing a comprehensive array of on-site amenities, we strive to create an environment where residents can lead active, independent, and worry-free lives. By simply removing the stress of going out, we enable residents to enjoy retirement.

Choosing an independent living apartment at Westminster Village offers a multitude of benefits that cater to a fulfilling and worry-free retirement lifestyle. Our community is designed to provide true independence while offering a supportive and enriching environment. Residents can enjoy spacious, manageable living spaces that are tailored to their needs, promoting a simplified and efficient lifestyle. Moving into an independent living apartment at Westminster Village means embracing a lifestyle of independence, convenience, and security, enriched by a wide array of amenities and supportive services. It’s the perfect place to enjoy retirement to the fullest. Contact us today to learn more.