Lenbrook Helps Adult Children Navigate Parents’ Senior Living Transitions
When parents age, adult children find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory, including exploring senior living options, managing healthcare transitions, and bearing the emotional weight of watching a parent need more help. They often work through these pressing demands while balancing the needs of their children and careers. At Lenbrook, families don’t face those transitions alone.
Mika Sharon’s father, Dr. Zeev Sharon, moved to Lenbrook in August 2025, after researching various senior living communities and lifestyles. The genuine, hospitable atmosphere at Lenbrook made the move and adjustment easier for both of them.
“The Lenbrook team is kind and welcoming,” Mika said. “My dad enjoys going to the library, the gym, and concerts. And I like that he’s not alone and is in a safe, comfortable place.”
Ten years ago, Wende Pope and Barbara Peeters’ parents, Mary and Bill Tomlinson, moved to Independent Living at Lenbrook. Mr. Tomlinson soon joined several groups, started one for fellow singers, and attended church services. Mrs. Tomlinson enjoyed the coffee shop, wine events, and walking to Kroger. Both made strong friendships at Lenbrook and loved the planned bus excursions.
Over time, the Tomlinsons needed different levels of care, which necessitated moves into Assisted Living, Rehab, and Memory Care. Throughout each move, the Lenbrook team guided the family in assessing the care options needed and helped ensure a smooth transition.
“That’s where the true character of Lenbrook revealed itself,” Wende said. “The team in each area really gets to know the residents. Assisted Living Manager Valarie Ward-Bobbitt became a trusted guide. She balances compassion with clear-eyed judgment and fosters a family atmosphere on her team. She helped us make difficult decisions with both guidance and grace.”
After Mrs. Tomlinson fractured her ankle and spent three weeks in rehab, it was time for her to move to Memory Care.
“It was not an easy transition for our family,” Wende said. “But Valarie always leads with guidance that is best for everyone, primarily the resident. I couldn’t do everything the Lenbrook team does for my mother, and I can’t be there every moment. I am grateful that they can. The warmth and excellence the team demonstrates reflect the values that Lenbrook has instilled throughout the community.”
The journeys of both Mika Sharon and the Tomlinson daughters illustrate what adult children, and their parents, often need when evaluating what comes next: experienced, compassionate professionals who help them navigate changing situations.
(Pictured: Wende Pope, Barbara Peters, and mother Mary Tomlinson at Lenbrook)