Brookdale Union Hills sits over on West Union Hills Drive in Peoria, where the beautiful single-story building keeps things simple for folks who don't like stairs, and where the walkways are enclosed so you can get around safely, and they keep the grounds landscaped and the courtyard cared for so everyone has a place to sit outside and enjoy things in peace and quiet. There are studio apartments and shared rooms, and in each of those, you've got emergency call systems, a private bathroom, and cable or satellite TV already ready to go. The community makes room for people who want to keep a small dog, and the building's all wheelchair accessible, including showers, which makes life a little easier for people who need it.
There's quite a few common areas-like a card room, a lounge, spaces for devotional services, computer access, and private dining rooms-so residents can get together for activities like art class, stretching, yoga, karaoke, gardening, and all kinds of games, plus a walking club, movie nights, and intergenerational programs which let you see young folks now and then. A full-time activity director sets up events, and the calendar's always full to make sure there's something happening. For folks with memory issues, Brookdale Union Hills has a secured memory care building with the Clare Bridge program for those in the mid or late stages of dementia and the Solace program for advanced dementia, both built to help seniors stay active and use their skills for as long as they can. Staff are trained in dementia care and give each resident the same caregivers as much as possible, so folks see familiar faces and get to know their helpers.
Family members can take part in community events and get support too, since the staff are used to keeping everyone in the loop. The meals are cooked daily, and anyone needing vegetarian or diabetic options is taken care of, and there are guest meal options for visitors. Laundry and housekeeping happen on a schedule, with internet and Wi-Fi for those who want it. The place also has transportation for medical visits and social outings, with both free and paid options, and there's resident parking for those who still drive.
If someone needs a higher level of care, assisted living covers help with dressing, bathing, medicine, and there's skilled nursing on hand for tougher medical problems or complex needs. Folks who wander, act out, or have tough behaviors can stay in the memory care area, which is kept locked and secure, with technology to alert staff if someone's likely to leave. The staff stays awake all night, and there's always a doctor on call, plus nurses and visiting pros-like podiatrists, therapists, eye doctors, dentists, and nutritionists-come in to check on everyone as needed. They handle diabetes care, incontinence, hospice, and even respite stays, so someone helping a loved one at home can get a break if they need it.
The community's ALTCS certified and has ties with Banner Health and Mercy Care, which helps cover more healthcare options. Brookdale Union Hills is a verified continuing care retirement community, which means that as folks' needs change, they don't have to move somewhere new. Memory care, assisted living, independent living, skilled nursing, and at-home services are all possible right here on the same campus. Programs keep adapting as new research comes out, making sure everything's up to date. Staff offer counseling and emotional support to keep everyone feeling safe and heard, and all the common spaces-inside and out-are set up for comfort and socialization, so there's a real effort to help residents stay as independent and engaged as possible.
