DEARBORN, Michigan — When April showers turn into heavy downpours, Oakwood Common resident Irene Brown breathes a sigh of relief.
Irene Brown models in a fashion show at Oakwood Common.
“I don’t have to worry about water seeping into my basement,” said Brown, who moved from her house in Wyandotte six years ago to a one bedroom deluxe senior apartment at Oakwood Common in Dearborn. “I lived in the same house for 60 years and had to redo the basement at least two or three times.”
According to Brown, there was always something to repair and the cost of upkeep was becoming more and more expensive. She calculates that her monthly cost at Oakwood Common which includes free weekly cleaning, a flexible meal plan, no property taxes, and plenty of activities is actually less than what she paid as a home owner.
“It’s also a gift to my kids that I moved here,” added Brown, who has three children, seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. “They can do as they want, don’t have to drive me and know that I’m happy.”
When her family visits, they comment on how much her apartment is set up like her former home in Wyandotte, because she brought many of her antiques and treasures with her.
According to Mary Granata, Oakwood Common’s director of sales, Brown is known as the community’s cheerleader. Ever cheerful and active, she is captain of the Thursday walking group, plays euchre and pinochle, participates in activities and special events on campus, and makes daytrips with other residents to a various museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Brown readily shares her philosophy with others. “You live for today. Be happy. Forget yesterday. Tomorrow may never come.”
In addition to her monthly savings on home maintenance and repairs, Brown finds there are fewer medical related expenses because she is happy and healthy.
“I never tell anyone good-bye,” said Brown, who will celebrate her 90th birthday on September 1. “Instead, I say ‘have fun’.”
About Oakwood Common
Oakwood Common offers one and two bedroom apartments located at 16351 Rotunda Drive, within a beautiful 29-acre retirement community that includes exquisite landscaping, nature trails and scenic views along the historic Rouge River Gateway in Dearborn. Oakwood Common apartments, available with flexible payment options, offer exceptional amenities for independent living and can be readily customized. Assisted living and a comprehensive rehabilitation and skilled nursing center are also available for those with additional needs. For more information and to arrange tours, call 800-642-4663 or visit www.OakwoodCommon.org.