“I think we maybe had one fight six months into our marriage,” Jo Ann says with a smile. “But I don’t even know what it was about. He’s just the best.”

After nearly seven decades together, Jo Ann and Charlie faced a new chapter when Charlie’s dementia began making their home life increasingly challenging. The devoted couple found themselves at a crossroads, seeking a solution that would provide Charlie with the care he needed while allowing Jo Ann to maintain her independence – without sacrificing their precious time together.

Finding the right support – together

At Atria Del Sol, they discovered the perfect balance. Charlie now thrives in the memory care neighborhood with trained staff providing expert support, while Jo Ann enjoys her assisted living apartment just steps away. The arrangement gives Jo Ann peace of mind and something even more valuable – the freedom to spend as much time with her beloved husband as her heart desires.

“It’s fabulous,” she says. “I can see him any time of the day. We always eat breakfast and lunch together.”

Embracing daily life at Atria Del Sol

Both enjoy the amenities and conveniences of life at Atria Del Sol, and Jo Ann serves as a Resident Ambassador, welcoming new residents when they arrive. The social program gives Jo Ann and Charlie plenty of ways to spend time together, like watching the Super Bowl, going on weekly scenic drives and enjoying movie nights.

The gift of more time together

“The transition to senior living can be a blessing for many couples,” says Abby Figueroa, Senior Vice President of Functional Operations. “It relieves many of the daily stresses and lets people spend quality time with one another – especially for those with differing levels of care needs. For seven decades, Charlie and Jo Ann have shared everything together.”

For the team at Atria Del Sol, supporting couples like Charlie and Jo Ann isn’t just a job – it’s a privilege. Being part of their journey, helping them continue their incredible love story, is a daily reminder of why they do what they do.

“They’ve taken care of everything you can think of,” Jo Ann says. “They do the laundry, the cooking, they tidy up our rooms. It’s a great life.”

Staying close to family

Another benefit for Jo Ann and Charlie is that Atria Del Sol lets them stay close to their family. Their daughter and son-in-law live two miles away and visit frequently.

Jo Ann made sure this was a place where Charlie could be his best. She had the opportunity to move in a few days prior to him and spent that time setting up his apartment just the way he would like.

“She keeps an eye on me,” Charlie says.

“Well, I’ve kept an eye on him for 69 years,” Jo Ann replies.

When asked what the secret is to a long and happy relationship, Jo Ann’s answer is simple. “Well, we love each other. So it was easy.”

Because people belong together

“At Atria, we believe that helping loved ones stay connected isn’t just part of the job – it’s at the heart of what we do,” says Abby. “Couples like Jo Ann and Charlie remind us every day that people belong together, and when they are, life is better.”