“Life is good here.” – A Royal Atrium Inn Testimonial
Fred Jacobs has always been a man with a plan. When he was a young adult, his dream was to build things—even though he had no knowledge or experience in that field. But after working for a construction company for a decade, he picked up enough knowledge to build a small house for his family, and he started his own construction company: Fred Jacobs Construction, Inc.
Fred, a lifelong Holland resident, was 28 when he built that home, and he worked at his thriving company until he retired. He continued to spend time in his workshop even after retiring, making furniture for his children and grandchildren. Fred’s son, who worked for his dad during the summers, earned a master’s degree in social work, and uses his construction knowledge to serve at Home Repair Services of Kent County, a non-for-profit company that helps people in the Grand Rapids area. Fred had certainly made his youthful dream a reality.
But Fred was getting older, and as he reached his 90s, he began having issues with balance. After a few falls, it was clear he would be safer somewhere with healthcare available if needed.
His son helped him find Royal Atrium Inn, an Assisted Living community with strong local ties and friendly neighbors. His wife, who didn’t need assistance, moved to an apartment at Royal Park Place, the Retirement Living community located on the same campus. Since 2017, he’s enjoyed the great atmosphere, and his wife cooks him dinner almost every evening in her apartment.
“Life is good here,” Fred says. “I’ve been in other places, and this is just better. I get the assistance I need, and my wife enjoys the freedom of retirement. We have it pretty easy, and we love it here.”
After moving in, Fred discovered that he had built several of his Royal Atrium Inn neighbors’ former homes, including the house of his neighbor across the hall. He’s gotten to know many of the people at Royal Atrium Inn at exercise classes and meals, and staff and residents alike enjoy meeting Fred and becoming his friend.