“I think we maybe had one fight six months into our marriage,” Jo Ann says with a smile. “But I don’t even know what it was about. He’s just the best.”
After nearly 70 years of marriage, Jo Ann and Charlie have built a life full of love, laughter and shared memories. But when Charlie began experiencing the effects of dementia, daily life at home became more challenging. Like many families, they needed a senior living solution that offered both expert care and the chance to stay close.
A community that feels like home
When they discovered Atria Del Sol, everything changed. Charlie moved into the secure memory care neighborhood, where he receives personalized attention from a team trained in dementia care. Just a few steps away, Jo Ann settled into an assisted living apartment – giving her the independence she values without being far from the person who means the most.
“It’s fabulous,” she says. “I can see him any time of the day. We always eat breakfast and lunch together.”
For Jo Ann, having that freedom – and knowing Charlie is safe and supported – makes all the difference.
Thoughtful memory care that supports independence
Charlie’s care is led by Atria’s Life Guidance® memory care program – designed specifically for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Life Guidance focuses on active aging, helping residents live meaningful, joyful lives through daily routines, opportunities for connection and engaging activities.
Each Life Guidance neighborhood is a secure, thoughtfully designed environment where residents receive 24/7 support from specially trained staff. The care is personalized, the pace is unhurried, and the focus is always on what each individual can do, not just what they need help with.
At Atria Del Sol, Charlie benefits from this nurturing setting – one that supports both his health and his sense of self. Whether it’s sharing a meal, listening to music or participating in a favorite hobby, Life Guidance gives Charlie the structure and stimulation that help him thrive.
And for Jo Ann, that brings peace of mind and a deeper sense of connection.
Making the most of every day
Life at Atria isn’t just about care – it’s about connection. Jo Ann stays active as a Resident Ambassador, helping new residents feel welcome. Together, she and Charlie enjoy the everyday joys of community life: scenic drives, movie nights and watching the Super Bowl together.
The couple’s story is a beautiful example of how senior living can offer not just support, but also fulfillment.
Senior living that brings couples closer
For couples with different care needs, it’s not always easy to find a place that works for both people – but Atria is designed to do just that.
“The transition to senior living can be a blessing for many couples,” says Abby Figueroa, Senior Vice President of Functional Operations at Atria. “It relieves many of the daily stresses and lets people spend quality time with one another – especially for those with differing levels of care needs. For seven decades, Charlie and Jo Ann have shared everything together.”
Whether it’s help with daily tasks or a thoughtfully prepared meal, Atria’s team is there to make life easier – and to make room for what matters most.
“They’ve taken care of everything you can think of,” Jo Ann says. “They do the laundry, the cooking, they tidy up our rooms. It’s a great life.”
Close to family, surrounded by love
Being near loved ones was also a top priority for Jo Ann and Charlie. Their daughter and son-in-law live just a couple of miles away and visit often, adding another layer of support and connection.
When it was time to move in, Jo Ann arrived a few days before Charlie so she could set up his space just the way he likes it – a gesture that speaks volumes about their bond.
“She keeps an eye on me,” Charlie jokes.
“Well, I’ve kept an eye on him for 69 years,” Jo Ann replies.
Their relationship is built on simple, enduring truths. When asked the secret to a long and happy marriage, Jo Ann says it best: “Well, we love each other. So it was easy.”
Where together is always possible
“At Atria, we believe people belong together – and that belief shapes everything we do,” says Abby. “Helping couples like Jo Ann and Charlie continue their life together is an honor.”
Whether you’re a couple navigating the complexities of dementia or an adult child looking for the right fit for your parents, stories like Jo Ann and Charlie’s show what’s possible when care is personalized – and love leads the way.
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