Adrian Nader

For Adrian Nader, an accomplished educator and writer, there is no place like The Atrium Assisted Living. The Ohio native's days are filled with group word games, Wii bowling, and horseracing as well as enjoying gourmet meals with his neighbors. Mr. Nader also shares his experiences as a World War II and Korean War veteran, who served in the U.S. Navy as a Lt. Commander in the Naval Reserve as a communication specialist, and passion for poetry, from nursery rhymes to literary classics.

“The Atrium Assisted Living is a very nice place to call home and the people, from my fellow residents to the staff, are all so very nice,” he says.

Virginia Carrick

With a song always in her heart, Virginia Carrick is busy from morning until night, often sharing her love of music at The Atrium Assisted Living. The former teacher, who taught history, English, Latin and music at Allendale Middle School and Midland Park Middle School, also enjoys seeing many familiar faces at the senior campus.

“I have had the opportunity to reconnect with the parents of former students and even a former student herself, who is now one of my neighbors,” she says.

Mrs. Carrick can often be found playing the piano during Sunday church service and other celebrations. She also participates in word or trivia games, Wii bowling, knitting, arts and crafts, and book club discussions. Always willing to try new things, she learned how to play bridge and Mah-Jong, and now regularly joins her fellow residents for Shanghai Rummy and other games.

“I consider every person at The Atrium a friend of mine,” said Mrs. Carrick. “We're one big family, always helping each other. I couldn't be happier.”

Learle Van Emburg

Residing at The Atrium Assisted Living has helped Learle Van Emburg fulfill her goals for retirement - to maintain familial ties while volunteering. A retired social worker who worked in the psychiatric field, she always had a strong bond with The Allendale Community for Mature Living, where both her late mother and late husband had been residents.

“I am extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to fulfill my goals, while using my talents and being challenged to do new things,” she says. “Each person has unique qualities and views and I enjoy being a part of their lives, and them being a part of mine.”

A former Christian educator, Mrs. Van Emburg hosts a weekly prayer group and is the caller and voice of all things bingo at The Atrium. She also started T.G.I.F., a discussion group celebrating all of the good things that happen each week and enjoys sharing her extensive doll collection with a Victorian-era holiday display.

Mrs. Van Emburg adds, “Much like me, when my daughter visits, she feels like this is her extended family too.”

Gerri Thompson

While Bronx-native Gerri Thomson has called The Atrium Assisted Living home since 2008, her ties to the community extend even further back. A former member of the Senior Social Club for several years, she decided to move to The Atrium to be among friends each and every day.

“Over time, I began to feel as if The Atrium was my home away from home,” she said. “Now, I really feel like I am part of a bigger community.”

Married for 29 years, this vivacious mother of two and grandmother of two is quite active. “The programs keep my mind active and I enjoy the wonderful trips and excellent food,” she added.

In addition to establishing her ties to The Allendale Community as a club member, Mrs. Thomson was a Short-Term Respite Stay guest on several occasions. “Whenever I came there, I felt that I was in a first-class hotel. I still do.”

Hilda and Andrew Persich

Residents and staff members at Carlton Court, a memory-care neighborhood, often joke that Hilda and Andrew Persich have the “honeymoon suite.” Married for 68 years, the couple shares a beautiful love story and fulfilling days.

Hilda, who is an accomplished oil painter, and Andrew, a car aficionado, enjoy spending time in their spacious apartment, decorated with family pictures and paintings as well as favorite furnishings from their homes in Ridgefield Park and Waldwick. They also look forward to dining with their neighbors, participating in current events discussions and completing 1,000+-piece jigsaw puzzles.

“We like to keep our hands and minds busy,” said Mrs. Persich. “It is how we have always lived our lives and we are grateful we are encouraged to do so here at Carlton Court.”

Harold Walter

Leading by example is what Harold Walter does. Although he was stricken by a stroke in 2011, he has made great strides in his recovery and, in so doing, has become a leader at The Allendale Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center. As President of the Resident Council, he serves as a valuable liaison between his neighbors and the administration.

“I accepted the position because I wanted to help make a difference,” he says. “The stroke may have hampered my movement, but it did not hamper my speech or ability to think. I want to contribute as much as possible to this great place I now call home.”

In addition to representing his peers, Mr. Walter enjoys the Nursing Home's array of planned therapeutic activities, including trivia games and bowling. “I am busy and highly fortunate to be surrounded by such a caring and supportive staff.”