Krishelle Kohler brings over three decades of compassionate elder care full circle in her hometown
by Jason Klamm
photo Tracie Seeley
It was over twenty years ago when Krishelle Kohler toured a Grosse Ile residence on Macomb Street as a potential location for a senior living facility. Finally in 2022, Island House Senior Living opened in that same residence.
Krishelle’s background in elder care started in the early 1990s when she joined Julie and David Hooper’s Eldercare Home Care Group. The Hoopers’ company focused on sending caregivers into the homes of the elderly where they provided compassionate care. Krishelle still runs Eldercare and also remains steadfast in assisting the elderly in their homes for over 33 years. “Eldercare gave me my start with the elderly and because of them, I’m still here, with just a new twist in elderly care”. In 2000, a friend approached Krishelle with an opportunity to start a group home, and in 2002 she took the leap, working the next 20 years with The Coach Stop Manor, a senior living facility in Trenton.
“When I was looking for a home that would be ideal for a senior living residence two decades ago, I actually toured both the Trenton home and this home on Macomb Street,” Krishelle recalls. “I liked them both, but I ultimately ended up going with the Trenton home.” Then, in the fall of 2020, Krishelle, a native of Grosse Ile, returned to her hometown to start a senior living home for local residents and the surrounding areas.
Macomb Street in Grosse Ile has a downtown business district, excellent schools, and peaceful waterfront environment, all of which make it an ideal location for Island House Senior Living. The area’s reputation for being a community-oriented, serene setting adds to the appeal for both residents and their families. “Macomb Street is fantastic,” Krishelle says with enthusiasm. “Every parade, every Island Night, or event–it’s happening right here. It’s wonderful for the residents to experience these events, and we’re able to take them out to enjoy them.”
Island House Senior Living offers a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and community engagement. The residence can support six seniors, offering a personalized and home-like environment. Compassionate staff with over two decades of experience provide round-the-clock support for individuals experiencing some form of dementia. “I enjoy helping local people, those who live on Grosse Ile and and in the surrounding communities,” admits Krishelle, “as long as we’re a good fit for the senior, I’m thrilled to provide a place for them so they can stay close to family in a location that’s comforting and familiar.”
The home itself is equally inviting, with a spacious interior, charming original brickwork and an enclosed courtyard, that allows residents to enjoy the outdoors in a safe, peaceful environment. Krishelle carefully chose the residence for its unique character and suitability for seniors.
While most people prefer to stay in their own homes, Island House Senior Living is indeed a perfect spot for most, and Krishelle isn’t afraid to admit that every senior is different and may be better suited to one senior living residence than another. In which case, she praises the supportive and connective nature of the elder and home care community. “If we’re not the right fit, I’m always willing to help someone find theirs, by offering recommendations or reaching out to my connections.” Krishelle says she finds it so nice working in the community where she lives, and she knows many of the seniors appreciate being able to stay in the same unique island community where they, too, spent much of their lives or spent their lives in the surrounding communities.
Island House Senior Living is more than just a senior care facility–it’s a bridge to maintaining meaningful connections with the community. Whichever you choose Eldercare or Island House Senior Living you will be provided a safe and welcoming environment. Krishelle has truly created a calm and serene atmosphere for those in their homes or at the Island House.
Island House Senior Living is located at 8504 Macomb St., Grosse Ile.
Visit IslandHouseGI.com or call 734-671-6518 for more info.
To learn more about Eldercare Home Care Group visit EldercareMI.com or call 734-671-6518.