Dothan retirement community adopting new model to prepare for baby boomers
DOTHAN, AL (WSFA) - Wesley Manor Retirement Community broke ground on a new construction and renovation project Friday morning.
The improvements are part of a $8.4 million project.
Officials plan to modernize the entire campus, adopting a new "household model." It's expected to add a new style of senior living. Household models emphasize independence, choice and interpersonal relationships.
"The model we've used is traditionally been a hospital-based model with the long hauls and very clinical environment, very sterile. That's not suitable for living. It never has been," said Jeffrey Kirby, Wesley Manor Retirement Community administrator.
One of the reasons for the expansion is to prepare for the baby boomer generation going into retirement in the next few years. Not only are they making physical changes, but they're working to improve care also.
"It's going to be good. We need some changes. It's a nice place to live, you know, as it is, but it'd be nice to have it remodeled," said Elizabeth Cosby, a Wesley Manor resident.
"For the baby boomers and being one I can speak for them, we don't want it the way it is. We want better," Kirby said.
Construction is expected to begin in March and be completed by January.
Wesley Manor currently serves more than 200 residents.
The facility provides assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation and memory care.
The new building will house a short-term stay rehabilitation center.
For more information, contact the retirement facility at 792-0921.
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