Hemsley House of Dresher

Families around Dresher who are weighing more support for a parent can look at Hemsley House of Dresher, at 1650 Susquehanna Rd. The community offers personal care, which is the Pennsylvania term for what most states call assisted living, along with memory care and short respite stays. Legend Senior Living operates the building, which was formerly Sunrise of Dresher. It is a practical option for families who want a parent to stay in the Dresher area near friends and family.

Personal care covers hands-on help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing and medications, and staff are on duty around the clock. Memory care is set up for residents living with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia, and it leans on familiar daily routines, which can ease the confusion that often follows a move. A respite stay gives a family caregiver a break or lets a parent try the community before a longer commitment.

A typical week might include card games, bingo, an art class and an evening walk, and in warmer months events move outside onto the grounds. The courtyard is where residents meet for coffee, music and group games. Apartments come in several floor plans, meals are prepared by the kitchen staff, and nobody has a lawn to mow or a leaky faucet to fix.

For outings, the operator points to Willow Grove Mall, the Ambler Theater, Woodmere Art Museum and the Upper Dublin Library as local favorites. Families comparing assisted living in Dresher should ask for a written list of what the monthly rate covers and how the cost changes as care needs grow.