Long-Term Care at Mere Point resident Hope Haug is a social butterfly by nature. In fact, spending time with others at Mid Coast Senior Health is one of her favorite parts of being a resident.
Prior to moving to Mere Point, Hope lived at Thornton Oaks Retirement Living Community, a collaborative of independent homes managed by Mid Coast–Parkview Health.
After living in her home on Bailey Island for a number of years with her late husband, John, Hope knew it was time to make the switch from living completely independently.
She later moved from Thornton Oaks to Mere Point, where she has made many friends. She spends most of her days out of her room socializing or chatting with staff, who she calls "wonderful."
She is especially grateful for "all the young people" who care for her, and enjoys sharing stories with them about her large family.
At 93 years old, Hope has led a colorful life. Though she grew up in Massachusetts, after she and John got married in 1946, they moved to Kittery Point, Maine. There, they had their three children: Sally, Jay, and Penny.
Today, Hope's children, grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren visit her regularly at Mere Point. One of her favorite memories at Mid Coast Senior Health was a day spent playing in the grass and laughing with her great grandchildren.
"It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon, and I thought 'This is what heaven must be like,'" Hope said.
In addition to her time as part of the Mid Coast Senior Health family, Hope is also connected to Mid Coast through her experience as a volunteer and Corporator for Mid Coast Hospital.
Along with visits from her family, Hope also enjoys the companionship of her neighbors at Mere Point, the comfort of gourmet meals, and a full complement of activities.
She also has 24/7 individualized care, and support for tasks that have become more difficult for her over the years, such as moving from place to place.
Ultimately, no matter where Hope is or what she is doing, she is always quick to find the humor and celebrate the silly things in life.
To Hope, "laughter is the best medicine."