She was born in Chester, South Carolina on January 4,1917, to Thomas and Dora Buckson. Her mother was a teacher, while her father commuted to Baltimore to work at Sparrows Point.

Following several brief hospitalizations, Mrs. Ardis Watkins has enlisted the services of P-B Health Home Care Agency to remain in her home while recuperating.

As a young woman, Miss Ardis Buckson moved to Baltimore City to start her adult life. Here, she met and married Mr. Norbon Watkins, and from this union three children were born.

“We had a wonderful life together until his death in October of 2005,” stated Mrs. Watkins.

Throughout her adult life, Mrs. Watkins worked at Johns Hopkins Hospital and then the old City Hospital. After retiring from City, she volunteered at Bon Secours Hospital for seven years, earning many awards for her service.

Additionally, Mrs. Watkins has been a long time member of The Village Baptist Church and retains her membership today.

After so many years of caring for others, the time came when Mrs. Watkins needed care for herself. Through the Department of Aging, the family was put in touch with P-B Health Home Care Agency.

Following a thorough evaluation of her needs, P-B Health began providing personal care and chore services to Mrs. Watkins. Olivia Cross, a CNA and home health aide, was assigned to her care.

“Olivia has been very courteous, caring and helpful in assisting with my personal needs,” said Mrs. Watkins. “Ms. Cross is a fine representative for P-B Health, and my family and I have become very fond of her.”

In her later years, Mrs. Watkins has had several brief hospitalizations, after which skilled home health services were prescribed. These services have provided Mrs. Watkins with the benefits of nursing care, physical and occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling in the comfort of her own home.

“Each [staff member I have worked with] was skilled and provided exceptionally good service,” reported Mrs. Watkins.

Mrs. Ardis Watkins continues to do well and to live in her home. If she ever needs services again following a hospitalization or illness, she will not hesitate to call P-B Health to help her recuperate.

In addition to the range of healthcare services offered at the continuing care retirement community, Pauline and Dr. Robert Sumner were instantly drawn to Riddle Village for its beautiful grounds and friendly staff.

we feel very blessed,” said Pauline.

Therefore, they wanted to give her something in return by ensuring they would be cared for in their future years.  The couple agreed that Riddle Village, a Lifecare Retirement Community located in Media, Pa., would be the perfect place to help them achieve this.

“So many parents don’t want to give up their home and they don’t realize the responsibility that falls to the children,” said Pauline.  “It takes a tremendous burden off our daughter if something were to happen to us. It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give your children.”

While it offers their loved one peace of mind, it has also provided the Sumners themselves with an active environment and maintenance-free lifestyle.  Robert (Bob) is a retired dentist who practiced for 38 years after serving in the Air Force while Pauline was a teacher before their daughter was born.  Over the years, she has continually volunteered in their community and with their church.

“I may have been the one who started pushing for us to move since Bob has been retired for 14 years,” said Pauline.  “I was tired of cooking and maintaining the home.”

The Sumners proceeded to visit different communities in the area, and found they were instantly drawn to Riddle Village.  “The staff appealed to us the most and the appearance as we were walking into the beautiful gold lobby room,” said Pauline.

These aspects, in addition to the Lifecare community’s independent living, personal care and skilled nursing services, prompted the couple to make the move, and they have been enjoying life in their new home for the past five months.

With a range of amenities and activities at Riddle Village, the couple has been getting involved as much as possible, even finding outlets for sharing their different skills. Bob, an avid woodworker and cabinet maker, has donated extensive equipment to the community’s woodshop and looks forward to giving lessons.  Meanwhile, Pauline has started volunteering at the gift shop.  They also take advantage of the fitness center and try not to miss the various entertainment brought into the community.

“There are so many opportunities here that you can be busy all the time,” she said.  “You certainly aren’t retired when you’re here — you might get tired — but you are not retired.”

And Bob would agree as he balances his time to continue his efforts building a medical/dental clinic in Honduras.  Having helped others in different areas such as the South Pacific and Mexico, he has been able to share his knowledge as part of the Medical Committee at Riddle Village.

When he travels, however, he knows he has a wonderful home with a new found family waiting for him.  “Everyone here is so friendly, it has not been a problem getting to know people,” he said.  “Everything feels connected here since you can just go from one building to the other.”

For the couple, the friendly connections also apply to the staff.  “They are very supportive; from maintenance to the wait staff, they could not be more helpful and wonderful,” said Pauline.

As they enjoy delicious meals, a variety of entertainment or the beautiful settings of Riddle Village, the Sumners prove just how rewarding making the transition can be for everyone involved.

When Bessye Clay (right) utilized the services of a home health agency, she not only received the care she needed, but found companionship with Registered Nurse Angela Lewis.

After different careers in public service, Baltimore City resident Bessye Clay eventually found herself needing a helping hand.  In June 2010, the North Carolina native, known to her family and friends as ‘Miss Bessye,’ had undergone back surgery.

Desiring to return home, it was clear Miss Bessye would need the assistance of a home health care agency when she was discharged from the hospital.

“I didn’t have any problems with the hospital,” she said.  “But I’d rather be in my home.  It’s more comfortable.”

Fortunately, her doctor referred her to P-B Health, an agency that provides skilled nursing, therapy services, medical social work and personal care.  With the agency, Miss Bessye not only received the care and support she needed, but she found companionship.

Angela Lewis, a Registered Nurse who has been with the agency for 14 years, provided wound care for her surgical incision and Miss Bessye also received physical therapy services.

“The nurses would come out and help me with walking and I did all kinds of therapy with them,” said Miss Bessye.

She has also credited Angela with helping her to avoid what could have been debilitating injuries after she slipped and fell in her home last September.  As a result, Miss Bessye has suffered from sciatica, but said things could have been worse had it not been for Angela checking on her and insisting she go to the hospital.

“If she hadn’t insisted that I go, I might not be able to walk right now,” said Miss Bessye.

Thanks to P-B Health, she made her recovery much quicker than expected and would gladly recommend the agency to others.  With the improvement of her health, however, there has just been one downside for Miss Bessye.

“I wish Angela was still coming,” she said.  “I miss her very much. She was an excellent nurse.”

These days, Miss Bessye enjoys spending time with her family in the area and catching up with Dot, a friend she had made in the hospital who also received care from the home health agency.

“Some of the same nurses that came to see me went to see her,” said Miss Bessye.  “We now call each other every day.  We are always laughing and talking about the great service we have had.”

Excerpts reprinted with permission from the article, ‘The Growing Need for Home Health Care Services’ by Ursula Battle in “The Baltimore Times” (December 3-9, 2010). 

The colors of the Shenandoah Valley are on display year-round for the thousands of visitors who travel to the region. One of the major attractions is the Shenandoah National Park, a 197,389 acre park that straddles a section of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Skyline Drive, the scenic drive that traverses the Blue Ridge Mountains for the entire length of the Park, is also a major draw for tourists who enjoy panoramic views of the colorful valley below. When visitors venture off Skyline Drive, they discover that nature’s colors are not the only ones on display in the Shenandoah Valley. From main-street communities to historic sites, the Shenandoah Valley is a region colored by its history and full of colorful residents.

Encompassing a large section of western Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley stretches from Winchester to Staunton and is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains on the east and the Allegheny Mountains on the west. The Shenandoah River snakes through the entire region, and the Massanutten Mountain range runs through its center. The Valley stretches deep into southwestern Virginia and into the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, but the heart of the region is in Frederick, Clarke, Shenandoah, Warren, and Page counties in Virginia.

Thriving Small Towns
From Winchester to Luray, the Valley offers a new small town to explore around every bend. Winchester, a city that changed hands nearly 70 times during the Civil War, is now home to historical sites including Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters Museum. This Virginia Main Street community features a historic downtown that is still very much alive with shoppers, diners, and sightseers. The beginning of Skyline Drive and home to Skyline Caverns, Front Royal is a picturesque community filled with attractions. Tours of the “Brother Against Brother” Civil War battle bring history to life. Antiquing and arts and crafts shopping thrive in downtown Front Royal. Opportunities for outdoor activities are readily available in the self-proclaimed “Canoe Capital of Virginia.”

Atop look-out tower in Woodstock, the seven bends of the Shenandoah River are clearly visible. Below, visitors will find museums, restaurants, shops, and the historic county courthouse dating back to 1792. Luray, on the southern end of the Valley, is home to Luray Caverns, a singing tower, and a well-preserved downtown district. Luray Caverns is a U.S. National Landmark and features the world’s only Stalacpipe Organ. The Singing Tower contains a carillon of 47 bells and provides free recitals throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Downtown Luray offers various accommodations for visitors, shopping, dining, and a seasonal farmer’s market. These are just a sampling of the many charming towns that dot the countryside of the Shenandoah Valley. Visitors will find unique historic sites, a variety of seasonal festivals, and, most importantly, a welcoming atmosphere in each new town they explore.

View from the Valley.
In the Shenandoah Valley, every season brings with it a new set of outdoor activities for everyone from the adventurer to the weekend explorer. Shenandoah National Park offers beautiful views and opportunities for nature watching and hiking. Hikers will find trails of varying difficulties, many which provide access to the famous Appalachian Trail. Accommodations ranging from cozy lodges to primitive camping sites are readily available. At the base of the mountains, the Shenandoah River flows through the Valley. Various river outfitters offer boat and tube rentals, and various campgrounds, lodges, and motels are nearby. Lake Arrowhead, a 34-acre, stream-fed mountain lake, is also a popular destination. A sandy beach, picnic area, and several trails surround the lake, which is open year-round. Whether visitors want to participate in outdoor sports or just watch the sun sink low over the mountains, the view from the Shenandoah Valley is bound to satisfy.

Retiring in the Shenandoah Valley
As residents age in place and seniors move from nearby metropolitan areas, the senior population in the Shenandoah Valley is burgeoning. Seniors are flocking to the Valley not only because of the gorgeous countryside but also because of the slower pace of life. Retirees are able to take full advantage of the amenities of the quaint small towns and the beauty of the rural countryside.

State and local governments and area professionals have answered the demand of this population growth with new and innovative programs for seniors. In addition, a growing number of retirement communities offer a full range of amenities and care options to Valley seniors. Senior-serving professionals are also available to help with everything from moving and downsizing to administering a care plan. Seniors in the Shenandoah Valley can fully enjoy their majestic surroundings while knowing that any care they may need in the future is readily available.

The Shenandoah Valley’s magnificent views have served as worthy subjects for more than a few photographers and painters, but only the region’s residents can truly absorb the varied palette of colors offered by this real-life, full-color postcard.

Resources for Shenandoah Valley Seniors

Case Management
Case managers conduct in-home assessments and prepare individual care plans utilizing available agency and community services.
Phone: 540-635-7141
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/caseman.htm

Congregate Meals
Shenandoah Valley Senior Centers offer nutritious meals and fellowship to people 60 and over at each of the six sites. Each year, the centers serve 48,000 meals to 700 people. Call your local senior center for more information.
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/conmeals.htm

Home Delivered Meals
Senior Center staff and volunteers prepare and deliver meals to homebound elderly within their communities. Call for eligibility.
Phone: 540-635-7141, ext 212
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/inhomes.htm

Ombudsman
Services are offered to promote the highest possible quality of life and care for persons residing in Nursing Homes, living in Assisted Living Facilities, and those receiving Home Health Care Services.
Phone: 540-635-7141, ext 211
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/ombudsmn.htm

Personal Care
Provision of in-home care that enables the eligible recipient to remain or return home. This service includes assistance by Certified Nursing Assistants with: bathing, shaving, grooming, transferring, and dressing for one to three hours weekly. Call for eligibility.
Phone: 540-635-7141
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/inhomes.htm

Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)
Volunteers contribute time and talent in services to their communities. RSVP membership is offered to people age 55 or older. Benefits include some insurance and recognition.
Phone: 540-635-7141, ext. 303, ext.207, or ext. 210
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/voluntee.htm

Shenandoah Area on Agency
This agency provides services and opportunities that improve the dignity and independence of senior citizens and promote their contributions to the community. Phone: 540-635-7141
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com

Shenandoah Senior Centers
The Shenandoah Area on Agency operates six senior centers located throughout the region. The centers offer nutritious meals, fellowship, transportation, and programs. For more information about specific programs, contact the center near you, or visit http://www.shenandoahaaa.com.

Clarke County Senior Center 540-955-3572
Frederick County Senior Center 540-869-2444
Page County Senior Center 540-778-1100
Shenandoah County Senior Center 540-984-8811
Warren County Senior Center 540-635-8652
Winchester Senior Center 540-662-5433

Title V Employment
Funding provides part-time subsidized employment to people 55 and older who meet low-income guidelines. Call for eligibility.
Phone: 540-635-7141, ext 204
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/titlev.htm

Transportation
A grant was received to allow medical transportation on a case-by-case basis for needy seniors in Warren and Page Counties. Call for eligibility.
Phone: 540-635-7141
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/transprt.htm

VICAP
Certified insurance counselors provide information about Medicare, choosing a supplement, prescription assistance, and long-term care insurance. They can also assist with bill resolution and appeals.
Phone: 540-635-7141, ext 303
Website: http://www.shenandoahaaa.com/voluntee.htm

Virginia Department for the Aging
This government agency develops and administers programs and activities to support Virginia senior citizens. Services vary by area and may include housekeeping, home repairs, meals, transportation, support for family members who care for elders, insurance counseling, and referrals to other service providers in the community.
Phone: 804-662-9354
Website: http://www.aging.state.va.us/