When Judy Joseph decided to move into Encore at Wilmington senior living community in Wilmington, Delaware at age 97, she did so with confidence and purpose.
“I made the decision for myself,” she said. “I wanted to protect my kids and not have them worry about anything or make a decision for me.”
A Familiar and Meaningful Place
It was a familiar place. From 1994 to 2003, Judy’s mother, Helene Haltenorth, lived at Shipley, and Judy visited her twice a day. Her mother also lived to be 97, and even more remarkably, she lived on the same floor in independent living that Judy now calls home.
“She had a wonderful experience here, and now I’m having the same one,” Judy said. “Everybody I’ve met here, just like everyone my mother met, is warm, helpful and congenial. I can’t think of anything negative to say.”
A Family Connection That Spans Generations
Judy’s connection to Shipley runs even deeper. Her son, Michael Joseph, is married to Dayle, the daughter of Anita Press, a resident of Encore at Wilmington. Furthermore, Dayle once taught at Shipley when it was a school.
A New Chapter, Rich with Activity
Now, Judy is creating her own vibrant chapter in the community. Very independent and active, she stays busy with chair aerobics, baking club, line dancing and dance parties.
Reunited with a Lifelong Friend
She’s also reunited with her best friend of 25 years, Mary Lou Vaughan. At 93, Mary Lou moved into Shipley just next door to Judy’s apartment. “She beat me by one month,” Judy said. The two have traveled the world together and are still just as close. “We both drive; just very carefully,” Judy said.
A Joyful Life Surrounded by Loved Ones
Mary Lou has no family of her own, so Judy is happy to share hers. She has three children, seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
“I’m very blessed,” she said.
Living with Purpose and Joy
For Judy, moving to Shipley wasn’t just a practical decision; it was the right one. “I just knew this was the place to live,” she said. And now, surrounded by friends old and new, she’s living each day with the joy, purpose and connection that first drew her to Encore at Wilmington decades ago.