Mount Pleasant Magazine Jan/Feb 2021

91 www.BestOfMP.com | www.BestOfMP.Video | www.VOICEforMP.com/BestOfInterviews BEST OF 2021 2021 W W W . B E S T O F M P . C O M BY JANET E PERRIGO I t is no secret that seniors and their families are struggling with the isolation requirements brought on by COVID-19. While the residents and patients at Franke at Seaside face the same limitations as other retirement and long-term care facilities, their staff has tackled those challenges head-on. Perhaps it is this dogged determination to maintain a vibrant, caring senior community in spite of difficult circumstances that has recently earned Franke recognition as the area’s Best Assisted Living and Best Retirement Community. When asked what makes Franke so exceptional, Community Outreach Director Allison Macfie responded, “Being family is what makes the difference. We are one team, one family and one heart. This place is so special – you can feel it when you walk in the doors. Our staff is passionate about what they do, and that passion translates into the excellent quality of care that we are known for at all levels of care.” From its founding in 1892 in Charleston as Franke Home to its present location in Mount Pleasant and name change to Franke at Seaside, the facility has remained faithful to its mission as a faith-based, nonprofit ministry of the Lutheran denomination. The majority of residents and patients are from the greater Charleston area, but there are also those from outside South Carolina. It’s also not necessary to be Lutheran to make your home at Franke. A unique feature of Franke is the wide range of care offered to community members. Independent individuals and couples enjoy their own cottages, patio homes or apartments and are encouraged to actively participate in the many events and programs scheduled. When assisted care is necessary, Franke is prepared to provide that as well, and when it’s time for skilled nursing and memory care, there is a compassionate on-campus plan for that. Such continuity of care is comforting for both residents and their families. As of the writing of this article, Macfie reported that family visits are still limited for all but Franke’s independent residents. They can enjoy family visitation at the community chapel, where they follow social distancing guidelines. Tech-savvy residents also have access to Zoom, FaceTime and Skype with their family and friends. For those unfamiliar with this technology, Franke offers classes that teach how to communicate with family through social media, order groceries and shop online. While new residents and patients continue to be accepted, even during the pandemic, Macfie says that the facility’s BeWell@Home program has also grown. “This program offers the benefits of our independent living community, but it allows people to age in place in their own homes. A one-of-a-kind program in South Carolina, it is a great option for those who love the amenities and services we offer here at Franke but who don’t want to make the move quite yet.” When it is that time, Franke at Seaside is ready and well-prepared to assist each new resident or patient. For more information, call 843-856-4700, or visit online at frankeatseaside.org. Not Just Surviving but Thriving Franke at Seaside