Now, I'm Surrounded by People
When Brian arrived at Victorian Village, he was looking for a place to connect and feel at home. After having a knee replacement surgery, he found so much more.
He moved through the different levels of care in the community, starting in independent living and then transitioning to short-term rehab before transitioning to assisted living, where he found a place filled with camaraderie, support, and friendship.
Brian’s time at Victorian Village has been guided by a team that ensured he received the therapy and support he needed. “Everything goes through Medicare,” he explained, detailing how his move from short-term rehab to assisted living allowed for increased therapy and continued recovery.
His favorite part? The people.
“I meet many friends everywhere I go,” he said with a smile. “There are shy people here, and I get them to open up and talk.”
Whether Brian participates in group activities or enjoys casual conversations over meals, he makes a point to bring others into the fold, ensuring that no one feels isolated. One of the unexpected joys of his time at Victorian Village has been his relationships with fellow residents and the staff who make the community feel like home.
“There’s a cook who knows me well,” he shared, laughing as he described how he always stops by the kitchen to say hello. He also jokes and talks with the nurses, aides, and therapy workers.
Beyond the staff, the social connections have been a highlight. Every Tuesday, a group of residents gathers for pizza night, where they eat, laugh, and even test their knowledge with trivia. “One of the ladies had a stroke, but she knows every answer about songs and TV shows,” Brian said. “It’s like she read the book ahead of time!”
For Brian, Victorian Village isn’t just a place to receive care—it’s a place to live fully. There’s always something happening, from music nights led by a resident’s daughter to impromptu Polish lessons with a fellow resident.
“I used to sit with a Polish woman and ask her to teach me some words. She loved it,” he recalled. “She had someone to talk to, and I had something new to learn.”
With his sister and her family living nearby, Brian enjoys the comfort of knowing he’s close to loved ones while still having a vibrant social life within the community. “I was alone for a long time,” he said, reflecting on his move to assisted living. “Now, I’m surrounded by people.”
Brian has found a home at Victorian Village through therapy, activities, and friendships. Whether helping others come out of their shells or simply enjoying the warmth of the community, his journey is one of resilience and connection.
“Victorian Village just feels like family,” he said.
“I feel so lucky to have found it.”
