The years had been good to the couple, but the task of looking after a large lawn that had been such a joy in younger years was becoming burdensome. The cost of repairing the house was reaping a declining dividend. What should they do? An early retiree family decided to invite his aging parents to come to “the Neck” so they would be close to allow a daily check on them. Then a stroke brought some disability for the father and some assisted living seemed feasible since the retirees had become very involved in community life. Where could that kind of care be given?

     These are the questions accompanied by dozens more that face residents of the Northern Neck where the average age has crept steadily past the late sixties. Thankfully in 1986, recognizing that rising average age was producing a need for care for the older population, Mr. and Mrs. Marion Hale purchased and began renovations on the old Farnham School building, an attractive brick structure, to make it into a home for assisted living.

     The years since then have seen the addition of a new wing in 1990 to Farnham Manor and the construction of four villas, comprised of three apartment units in each. These apartments have a choice of one or two bedrooms. They are used by those who can live independently. A visit to a couple for whom I provided pastoral care a few years ago revealed an amazingly large living area for great comfort. Currently a second group of three villas are being added.

     The facility is operated under strict state regulations that include mandated six-days-a-week programs of two hours a day of some activity that will stimulate body and mind. These activities include craft and exercise classes, sing-a-longs, bingo, shopping trips, religious services, socials and parties. There is literally something for everyone.

     The administrator is Ginger Elliott who heads a staff of 55 individuals who operate in three shifts under the direction of six persons who take care of every aspect of daily living. Administrative Assistant is Sherry Frye, Business Manager is Dawn Martin, Director of Nursing is Mary Headley, Director of Maintenance and Housekeeping is Shirley Jenkins, Dietary Director is Chris Schools and Activities Director is Angie Douglas. Obviously operating such an assisted living facility is a 24-7 task, but it seems to be a labor of love for everyone involved. There are spaces for 89 persons in the facility with the current population of approximately 60. 

     Not everyone who applies is accepted. Each applicant is assessed using the UAI (Uniform Assessment Instrument) which screens for various conditions and circumstances. This is not a typical nursing facility and, as the name implies, is an assisted living facility.”

     Having visited homes for the older and disabled population of the areas where I have been pastor across a large portion of Virginia and a section of North Carolina, Farnham Manor ranks high in my view. It is neat and clean, well staffed and delightfully appointed, comfortable and bright. Residents are able to bring their own furniture and some possessions along to make it very much “home”. Residents are cheerful, reflecting a kind of community spirit. When folks come here to live, they become a part of a new community and most make new friendships, and the fact that they have come from diverse backgrounds, this only enriches those relationships. This seems to add much to their vitality.

     If you have thought of the possibility of needing a place to live after you have reached the point of needing help on a daily basis, maybe Farnham Manor is a place for your to consider.
The facility is located just off State Route 3 east of Warsaw on Cedar Grove Road within a half hour drive of almost any town on the Northern Neck and within easy reach of major cities along Interstates 95 and 64. You may call the office at 804-394-2102, e-mail at fmanor@sylvaninfo.net or write P.O. Box 308, Farnham, Virginia 22460. 

See our ad located in the Northern Neck Shopping section of ChesapeakeStyle.com

© 2001 Rev. Ron Jones. All rights reserved.