We visited/researched 5 assisted living communities when we realized our mother could no longer live alone in her own home. Wingate (then Epoch) of Norton was the overwhelming choice. It is small enough to be cozy and friendly, but large enough to provide lovely amenities. The dining rooms are nicer than most restaurants! The great room is nicely divided into areas, yet provides plenty of space for their many programs. Everything is spotlessly clean. I want their library for my own home! But rooms are just rooms, and great spaces don't make for great homes. People do. They are what make Wingate what it is: a welcoming and safe haven for people who need extra help in their lives but wish to maintain their independence as much as possible. The staff is totally dedicated to the residents. Going the extra mile is normal for them. All the staff seem to know all the residents by first name, and I have never detected the least degree of insincerity in their expressions of concern for "their elderly", as one staff member once said. Our mother settled in nicely after the normal couple of weeks adjustment period, and has often referred to Wingate as "my home." It is heart-breaking to all of us to have to move her from Wingate, but her memory needs are now greater than can be successfully addressed there. Wingate does not have a Memory Care program (although I understand that it has been discussed.) It will not be easy to leave Wingate...the staff is a very caring family. That is an often-used (and seldom meant!) cliche, but in this case, it is the truth. If you are looking for warmth and safety and genuine affection for your loved one in need of assisted living, you will look a long time before you find a place that comes near Wingate of Norton.
Provider Response
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this very kind review. It’s important to us that our staff is recognized for what they do—but more importantly, that people notice how much our staff truly cares about each and every one of our residents! We count ourselves lucky to have been able to assist your wonderful family and your mother, a very special lady. We’re sad that she’ll be leaving us and hope that she finds a new home that she loves. While Wingate Residences at Norton does not offer a memory care program, many of our Wingate sister communities in the area do. We’d be happy to speak to you about programs and services at other Wingate communities that may be a great fit for your mother, and you can learn more about Wingate’s memory care program on our website.
