Meet Our Clients: Celeste Mauldin & Lelia Lett
It’s never too late to make new friends.
Celestine Mauldin unexpectedly found herself searching for a new home when the apartment complex where she’d been living since selling her house announced it would transition to an assisted living facility, giving residents just 30 days to relocate.
Thanks to a referral from Cuyahoga County Adult Protective Services (APS), Ms. Mauldin found Margaret Wagner Apartments (MWA) by Benjamin Rose – secure, affordable, HUD-subsidized apartments for adults age 62 and older. After touring an apartment, with help from her daughter to complete the rental paperwork and help from APS to pay the deposit and first month’s rent, Ms. Mauldin was able to move in quickly – a fortunate outcome as there is always a waiting list for MWA.
Although she loved her new apartment, Ms. Mauldin missed her friends and struggled with loneliness. She mentioned this to Bonnie Paul, a social worker and service coordinator at MWA, who shortly thereafter introduced her to Lelia Lett, a Benjamin Rose Senior Companion (trained peer volunteers who provide support and companionship to older adults living at home).
Since then, the two have spent four days a week participating in senior center activities including exercise classes, taking walks, watching television, preparing and enjoying some meals together and more.
“I was able to get a paratransit pass, so I can get to the grocery store and doctor’s appointments, but if I need Lelia’s help, she’ll drive her car and meet me,” says Ms. Mauldin.
Far beyond companionship, the two have much in common including their faith, and have formed a close friendship that benefits both of them. Ms. Maudlin shares that her grown children have additional peace of mind knowing she is able to maintain her independence while staying active (at 95 years young, she averages 10,000 steps per day) and socializing (she and another MWA resident recently started a bible study group).
“The best thing about having Lelia as a friend and senior companion is how she makes my days more pleasant. I hate seeing her leave at the end of the day,” says Ms. Mauldin.
Learn More About the Rose Centers
Our Rose Centers for Aging Well promote active aging for Northeast Ohio’s older adults by offering opportunities to learn, socialize with peers, create and volunteer. Discover how you can become a part of our exciting community today!
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