The Lutheran Home/Saxony Village

In the 1960s, Southeast Missouri Lutheran churches noted that elderly congregations were in need of long-term health care facilities with skilled nursing. The Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau was started from those churches and has grown into a place where Christians and their families can depend on comfort and compassion in the later years of life.

The Lutheran Home, situated on 42 acres at 2825 Bloomfield Road, has expanded from serving three residents since its opening day in 1972 to its present capacity of 274 residents. In addition to regular-stay rooms, the Lutheran Home has 32 beds designated for serving the needs of patients with dementia.

The quality of care available at the Lutheran Home is reflected by the wide range of services the facility offers, which includes an Alzheimer's special care unit, assisted living, adult day care, home health and hospice. The facility also offers services geared toward helping people recover from illness, injury or disease. The Lutheran Home has its own department for providing occupational, physical and speech therapies.

Each care service has specialized policies and facilities designed to meet the needs of the most important elements of the residents. Quality of life is one of the top priorities of the Lutheran Home's nurses and other caregivers.

In 2010, the Lutheran Home expanded its occupational, physical and speech therapies departments, more than doubling the size of the facilities to meet the needs of the residents. The space includes a full-size kitchen and shower, allowing staff to work with people to help them get home sooner.

Expansions and upgrades will continue this year. Residents' rooms at the Lutheran Home are getting a facelift, including upgraded flooring and wall coverings. More private rooms will be added. Wi-Fi is being added to the assisted living and Saxony Manor apartments; the service will be provided at no charge. And the Lutheran Home's dining rooms will be expanding to offer residents a roomier, more homelike atmosphere.

The Lutheran Home is a not-for-profit organization. All proceeds are used to pay staff and to maintain and improve facilities and equipment.

The facility has been recognized by the community for its outstanding level of service and care, again receiving a People's Choice of Cape County Award in 2010.

Another part of the Lutheran Home, Saxony Village, combines comforts of home with a community designed with active retirees in mind.

Saxony Village opened in 1994 with a goal of providing privacy and security to retirees ready to relax and live a comfortable lifestyle.

In a Christian environment, residents of Saxony Village are able to enjoy an atmosphere full of opportunities and activities, in addition to a maintenance-free housing unit with all amenities included and transportation provided.

Saxony Village is a place where retirees can feel secure about their well-being, both physically and socially. The community has personnel on staff 24 hours a day who are committed to providing assistance if needed. It also employs a full-time wellness coordinator who advises on healthy living and encourages residents to stay active.