NEWS
NBC25 News Report on LIFE Anniversary
NBC25 News Report on LIFE Anniversary 12/4/2009
CHAMBERSBURG, PA - November marks one year since LIFE Lutheran Services began serving seniors in the Chambersburg community.
The number of participants continues to grow, and they seem to enjoy taking in everything life has to offer.
The seniors may be growing older in age, but they're staying active. It's all part of LIFE Lutheran Services' mission to provide "Living Independence for the Elderly."
"LIFE is a program that provides comprehensive care to seniors, folks who can remain safely at home but might otherwise be in a nursing home," explains Terry Shade, the vice president of community health services.
The LIFE center features a clinic staffed with a physician and nurse practitioner along with an area for rehabilitation. Home-based care is available for patients who can't make the trip. Their health concerns are taken seriously, but there's also time for fun.
"We have a lot of laughter and a lot of discussions about different things. We go through the newspaper and pick out subjects that are very interesting and talk about them," says resident Jennie Katusin.
Patients enjoy the social aspects of what's offered, whether it's the chance to play games or just talk politics with each other. But, they say it's the physical and occupational therapy which has greatly changed their lives.
Paul Newcomer says, "They've got the most fantastic staff and professional health care that I've ever encountered in my life."
Newcomer lost the ability to walk after suffering from a bout with gout. He soon discovered the services provided by LIFE and says he was on his feet in four weeks.
"I cannot talk enough about the LIFE center. It's the very best thing that's ever happened to me," he adds.
LIFE Lutheran Services are available to seniors who are 55 years of age or older. They also need a nursing home level of care and must live in the life service area with a desire to stay in the community.
