Kim Sutton-Rainey
Jul 2026
I have been a care companion for my friend for nine years. Her POA and I have moved her a total of seven times since she fell ill in 2017. She has been in the care of GenCare Lifestyle at Point Ruston (GCPR) since September 2025. Half of our experiences prior to this move have been less than desirable and the other half tolerable.<br><br>As one of two care companions to someone who cannot manager their life and has limited mobility, I have an immense responsibility to keep a watchful eye on those who care for our friend on a daily basis. Her experience impacts each of our lives. Management of her affairs is time consuming and an emotional rollercoaster. As caregivers, we must do everything we can to eliminate bad experiences, they are costly in tangible & intangible ways and very disruptive.<br><br>My friend suffers from PTSD due to the trauma of being mishandled and dropped. She is extremely vulnerable and at the mercy of those caring for her. One time, at her last assisted living facility, I was by her side on the bathroom floor after she fell transferring to the toilet. As she pushed her call button she encouraged me to sit tight and be patient because it would take them a while to respond. She was right, it took 45 minutes. This could have been a life threatening event and I might not have been there. She did not want me to call 911 because she wasn’t hurt. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get her back in her chair by myself and she asked me not to leave her side. So, we just patiently waited together. This is one of many stories over the span of seven moves in nine years. I think it says it all. We then moved her, yet again, to GCPR where they now respond within five minutes or less. They are not short staffed and have a happy & dedicated team. We are here to stay!<br><br>From the moment we walked in the doors for a tour and started the move-in process, our experience has been stellar. They have accommodated our every need. As my friend’s illness has progressed our needs have increased exponentially. Thank goodness we made the move when we did! I can’t imagine being in the hands of the other care facilities during this extra tough period.<br><br>I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the kindness and expertise we experience on a regular basis. At every turn, they show up with grace, empathy, and an understanding awareness of our circumstances. Our gratitude runs deep for each and every one of them, including those we’ve never met, for the buck stops with them. It is clear to see, this is an extremely well managed care facility. Bravo to all!<br><br>If you are looking for a safe place for your loved one, stop your search here and get the ball rolling! You just happened upon the very best!<br><br>P.S. When we made the move to GCPR we expected to pay more for the same care and a larger apartment. That was not the case, our monthly expenses were reduced. We got much more for our money.
