Meet Flo

UNEXPECTED JOY COMES WITH A MOVE TO ASSISTED LIVING

A bout of pneumonia at age 100, and a fall and broken hip at 102, led Florence (Flo) McHugh to Cedar Community’s short-term rehabilitation, and eventually to assisted living. She lived in her own home up until that point, a little Cape Cod on one acre just outside of Newburg. It was the home in which she had lived since the 1950s. Several family members and neighbors would check in with her quite often and enjoyed looking after her.

The move to assisted living was not one Flo was initially thrilled about, but with the extra care she needed, it was one the family knew would be best for her at that time. Flo was willing to give it a try. “We were so fortunate with the location of her apartment. In her home, she had a small table in the kitchen that overlooked the yard,” says Barbara McHugh, Flo’s daughter.

“We were able to replicate that in her apartment and she can still enjoy watching the birds, deer, and turkey. She even has bird feeders right outside her window that I ll for her,” says Barbara.

Flo enjoys being in touch with nature and has always been an avid gardener. In fact, she was never one to really sit down much and was often referred to as the “Energizer Bunny.” Cedar Community’s assisted living aords her the opportunity of enjoying the privacy and comfort of her own apartment, while being able to go for daily walks on the scenic grounds, participate in activities and exercise classes, and meet new friends. “There is no stopping her,” says Barbara.

Moving to assisted living, Flo thought her life was over. She has since been surprised how much she really enjoys it. “I love meeting new people and have never had a problem striking up a conversation with anyone,” says Flo. She also enjoys time to herself embroidering tea towels, working on jigsaw puzzles, and reading.

Flo recently turned 103 and feels she has lived a great life. She noted that she is the only one in her family who has ever lived that long. “I feel comfort and peace knowing she is well taken care of and I don’t have to worry about her living alone anymore,” says Barbara. Flo laughs and adds, “Now they can relax.”

Nothing seems to stop Flo from living and enjoying life. She is very savvy with social media and often posts on Facebook, keeping in touch with family and friends. Flo has seen quite a lot during her lifetime, and she has always gone with the “Flo.” “She is sticking around as long as she can, because she wants to know how the story ends,” says Barbara.