LIFE Stories
We pull together both traditional and non-traditional services in order to support the individual and allow them to maintain their independence and live in the community.
Frank, 69
LIFE Pittsburgh Participant since 2005
Frank and his wife, Louise
Frank’s Story
Frank was born and raised in Pittsburgh. He worked for many years as a maintenance director at Parkway Center, Allegheny Center and Century III malls. In addition, he was a basketball and football official for several years. Frank has been married for nearly 50 years, with three children and seven grandchildren. Frank is an avid Steeler fan and was a season ticket holder for many years until he lost his right lower leg in 2000. He was a singer in a local Doo Wop group called "the Marquees", and enjoys listening (and singing along) to Doo Wop music.
Frank resides in a senior high rise with his wife Louise. He attends LIFE Pittsburgh's Adult Day Health Center three days per week. As well, Frank acts as the primary caregiver for Louise, who is also a LIFE Pittsburgh Participant.
Frank has established many relationships at LIFE Pittsburgh with both Participants and staff members. He often seeks out new Participants in an attempt to welcome them, orient them and help them to feel comfortable with LIFE Pittsburgh.
A Day in the LIFE with Frank
5am Makes coffee, reads the paper, listens to music & gets ready for the day.
7am Wakes up Louise. Makes her coffee and assists her in dressing (along with the help of a LIFE Pittsburgh Personal Care Assistant) for LIFE Pittsburgh (Louise attends Monday through Friday).
8am LIFE Pittsburgh van arrives and picks up both Frank and Louise – transports them to Adult Day Health Center.
8:30am Arrives at LIFE Pittsburgh and is assisted off the van via wheelchair lift. Is served breakfast by dietary staff members.
9:00am Participates in a restorative exercise program with therapy department. Works with hand and leg weights, completes balance activities, and practices ambulation with prosthetic leg and a quad cane.
10:30am Voluntarily participates in a non-denominational church service led by LIFE Pittsburgh Chaplain.
11:30 Lunch in main dining room – prepared daily by LIFE Pittsburgh chef, and served family style by dietary staff.
1:00pm Participates in a men's group – plays poker & cards, talks about sports trivia, watches sports movies, and socializes. Particularly enjoyed the National Football League official who was a guest speaker for the group.
3:30pm Leaves center via LIFE Pittsburgh van. A LIFE Pittsburgh Personal Care Assistant assists Louise to get into their home, and helps her to get settled.
6pm Eats dinner with Louise.
8-9pm LIFE Pittsburgh Personal Care Assistant arrives and helps get Louise ready, and into bed.
10pm Bedtime.
"LIFE Pittsburgh is the best kept secret in Pittsburgh. Best, caring place that keeps people out of a nursing home"
- Frank
