Don C.
Resident Since 2021
Elaine M.
Resident Since 2023
In 2023, Elaine moved to Benchmark with her husband Ray, who requires specialized care for his Parkinson’s disease. In addition to receiving the support needed for Ray, Elaine has become a vibrant member of the community. Now, she enjoys her days alongside Ray, leading a fulfilling lifestyle without the concerns or pressures of herself providing constant care to Ray.
Elaine spends her free time as an active crafter, creating paintings and quilts for both residents and associates. A former nurse herself, Elaine helps new residents settle in and feel welcome. She knows her husband is being well-taken care of, and now has more opportunity to take care of herself.
My husband Ray is the reasonI came to Benchmark.
A good case for soulmates, Elaine and Ray met in the second grade and have stayed close together ever since. They’ve been happily married now for over 50 years.
He’s safe, and I’m comfortablebecause I know he always has support.
I wanted to be able to combinemy independence with his needs.And a lot of places don't do that.
Now that there is a team dedicated to caring for and supporting Ray, Elaine's days have opened up to possibility. An artist of multiple mediums, she enjoys painting and crocheting. If she’s not crafting, Elaine may be enjoying the company of friends, spending time with Ray, or simply taking a moment for herself.
A portrait of Tommy, Ray’s caregiver at Benchmark, as a young child. Elaine gifted this to him as a means of showing her appreciation.
