The senior living campus at Otterbein Lebanon is a hub of constant activity, with residents experiencing a life free from maintenance responsibilities within a vibrant community. Every day here presents new learning experiences, social engagements with friends, and the chance to fully embrace life’s pleasures.
Our residents’ individual passions and unique interests are what sets us apart. As part of our “Meet the Resident” series, we are thrilled to showcase some of the spirited seniors who proudly call Otterbein home.
Get to Know Otterbein Lebanon Resident Jean M.
Q: Can you share a brief background about your life before moving to Otterbein?
Mel and I have been married for 55 years. We lived in Port Clinton on Lake Erie and have two sons and three grandsons living in Austin, Texas. Mel was the head of a construction company, and I was a 2nd grade teacher. We moved to Otterbein Lebanon in early December.
Q: When searching for a community, how did you decide on Otterbein? What set it apart from other communities?
Mel was on the corporate board for Otterbein for 12 years and the chairman for eight years. He would come to Otterbein Lebanon for meetings 15 times a year. I would go with him about half the time and walk around the campus, nearby Lebanon, and the parks.
We lived in a 3-story house and determined it was the time to move. The independent living residents and opportunities are wonderful, and we just knew it would be a good move.
Learn what it’s really like to move to independent living >>
Q: Please share about what area of the community you moved to, and what types of services you receive.
We live on Orchard Lane. We enjoy our front porch and love that we have lots of neighbors!
Q: Can you continue doing things you enjoyed before moving to Otterbein?
Yes! We are only an 11-minute drive from the grocery store, and there are lots of cultural things that are not too far away. We can also go to Cincinnati quickly. Mel is a golfer and enjoys golfing next door. We also enjoy going to the movies and shopping.
See behind the scenes at Otterbein Lebanon >>
Q: Have you tried new activities for the first time since moving to Otterbein? What bold adventures have you enjoyed so far?
Yes, we are enjoying many activities, including volunteering for Days for Girls (sewing projects for girls in Africa who need reusable menstrual products) and attending chair yoga, Wine and Dine get-togethers by the Great Wave Cafe, and Friday Night Game Nights.
We love the app and TV channel. I love the morning announcements and the exercise class. I love the music on the TV as well.
We also like hanging out with neighbors, participating on the Independent Living Board/Council, and playing cornhole. Regarding bold adventures, we attended the immersive Indiana Jones event here on campus recently.
Discover the amazing culinary events at Otterbein Lebanon >>
Q: What are some of the reasons why you’d recommend Otterbein to others?
We did the right thing at the right time by moving. Don’t wait to move when you have to. It’s fun, and you’ll meet friendly people with interesting backgrounds. It’s like being on a grown-up college campus without taking classes. Our house is so lovely. We went from a 3,000 sq. ft. house to a 1,700 sq. ft. home, which fits us perfectly. It doesn’t feel small.
Q: Was it easy to make friends at Otterbein?
YES! It’s been very easy to make friends at Otterbein. Everyone is so friendly. It’s so nice.
Read about Peg M.’s journey to Otterbein >>
Q: What advice would you give others trying to decide whether a community like Otterbein is right for them?
Come and visit — that would help you make your decision right away on Otterbein Lebanon. You won’t believe all the things there are to do here!
Make sure to move here before you’re too old, and don’t wait too long. You get rid of everything you don’t need and can look forward to meeting nice new friends. It’s beautiful here.
Discover Life at Otterbein Lebanon
Are you ready to explore life at Otterbein Lebanon? View our website for information about services, amenities, floor plans, and more. You can also watch video testimonials from other residents like Jean and Mel.
