We are thrilled to share an exciting new chapter in our Branches journey of providing the highest quality care and support for our residents. In our ongoing commitment to enhancing the lives of those we serve, we are proud to introduce the Montessori-inspired approach to care at Bickford of Chesterfield.
Montessori is a philosophy rooted in respect, dignity, and empowerment. Originally developed as a method of education, this approach has been beautifully adapted to support older adults, particularly those living with memory challenges. By focusing on each individual’s abilities, strengths, and preferences, the Montessori method enables us to create an environment that fosters purpose, engagement, and independence.
During our Family New Years Eve Party we presented "The Hands of the Generation" we currently care for.
Hands are a universal language, transcending age, race, and background. In the hands of our senior residents, we see:
Strength: Decades of hard work and perseverance.
Connection: The warmth of a handshake, the comfort of a touch.
Legacy: The marks of lives well-lived and lessons passed down.
As caregivers, we hold not just hands but histories. Each resident we serve has a unique journey, and their hands remind us to honor that journey daily. Whether it's helping with a simple task or holding hands during a quiet moment, we recognize the privilege of being part of their story.
Bickford Assisted Living and Memory Care
#dementia
#dementiaawareness
#memorycare
#assisted living
#montessori
#montessorifordementia
#seniorcare
#montessoriinspiredlifestyle
#centerforappliedresearchindementia
At Bickford of Chesterfield, our residents don’t just live here – they build here!
Every day, our vibrant community comes together, creating bonds that go beyond just companionship. Whether it's sharing stories, participating in activities, or snuggling together under a blanket like these two, our residents are the heart and soul of this place.
It's not just about a home; it's about building a community where everyone feels valued, connected, and empowered. From lifelong friendships to new adventures, we celebrate every moment and every individual that makes our community special.
Together, we're more than just a place to live — we’re a place where everyone thrives!
Bickford Assisted Living and Memory Care
#BuildingCommunity #AssistedLiving #StrongerTogether #CreatingConnections #SeniorLiving#montessorifordementia
#seniorcare
#montessoriinspiredlifestyle
#centerforappliedresearchindementia
Our higher path celebration this week has a unique example of triumphing through the adversity of early on-set dementia. Ms. M has become a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity in our Mary B’s. Ms M’s journey was one that her young family struggled to comprehend how their beloved mother, once vibrant and living a full life of travel, now lived in a world where words eluded her. Ms. M has always been an active woman, a fitness instructor who dedicated her life to health and wellness and her love of Paris! Her days were spent running marathons, teaching aerobics, riding her bike, and inspiring others to lead active lives. Her laughter and energy were infectious, and she was known for her boundless spirit and easy ability to make friends. But as her dementia crept into her life, those traits were challenged. Ms M moved into Bickford of Chesterfield September 2022 on AL and quickly incorporated her life of fitness into daily activities. She attended exercise classes and would proudly display her agility by doing handstands, pushups, and teaching yoga poses! BFM’s were in awe the way she would rise each morning with an undeniable spark in her eyes, despite the confusion that surrounded her. As her dementia advanced and her verbal communication diminished, she moved into Mary B’s where staff is regularly trained in Montessori programs and educated in managing non-verbal residents. They quickly learned to read her moods through her expressions, finding ways to connect with her that didn’t rely on spoken language. Simple gestures, like holding her hand or looking her in the eye, became powerful forms of communication. Despite her limited ability to communicate verbally, Ms M’s will to live shone through in other ways. Staff noticed that she still found joy in movement. Even in her advanced state, she would sway to music, her body remembering the rhythm of the aerobic routines she had practiced for decades. This instinctive response became a source of solace for her family and staff, who found comfort in her ability to express herself through dance. They were comforted in understanding that even without words, Ms M was still very much present in her own way. Her story is not just about the struggles of dementia but about the power of love, connection, and the enduring human spirit. She has taught us that even in silence, there is strength, and that sometimes, simply being present is the greatest testament to a life well-lived. To Ms M we say “Il n'y a pas de bonheur sans courage ni de courage sans bonheur." In French translates to "There is no happiness without courage, nor courage without happiness." A statement that truly reflects the strength she has exhibited throughout her life and her ability to find joy despite the challenges she faces.
#HigherPathSuccess
#Dementia
#AssistedLiving
Hunting for Joy: Mr. S’s Triumph Over Parkinson’s
Mr S, a vibrant 84y old avid hunter, has always found solace in the great outdoors. The thrill of tracking game and the serenity of nature were integral parts of his life. He moved into Bickford of Chesterfield in 2024 with visions of passing along his love of the outdoors to his grandkids. However, everything changed when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Initially, the news hit him like a deer in headlights. Mr S felt as though his passion for hunting—and life as he knew it—was slipping away. The diagnosis brought a flood of emotions. Mr S grappled with fear and uncertainty about the future. He worried about the tremors, stiffness, and fatigue that often accompany Parkinson’s, imagining how these symptoms could affect his ability to walk and enjoy his cherished outdoor adventures. It was a dark time for him, as he felt his independence and zest for life begin to fade.
Fortunately, here at Bickford of Chesterfield, we pride ourselves on motivating and reaffirming residents that they can still lead a fulfilling life; a higher path journey of living happier, healthier-longer! Mr S found a guiding light in Dr. Majhi, a compassionate primary provider with Curana Health who specialized in managing geriatrics and is well versed in Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Majhi emphasized that while Parkinson’s posed challenges, it was possible to lead a fulfilling life with the right support and treatment. Together, they crafted a personalized medication management plan tailored to Mr S’s specific symptoms and lifestyle. Dr. Majhi encouraged him to stay active, not just through medication, but also by engaging in physical therapy with Fox and adaptive exercises that would help maintain his strength and flexibility. Determined to reclaim his life, Mr S embraced this new chapter. He set out to exercise daily, focused on enhancing mobility and balance. He also started practicing mindfulness techniques to manage stress and anxiety, allowing him to approach each day with a more positive outlook. As the seasons changed, so did Mr S’s outlook on life. He emerged from the woods, not just as a hunter, but as a man who had faced adversity and arose stronger. Mr S’s journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of effective medical management. He has learned that while Parkinson’s disease is part of his life, it doesn’t define him. Instead, he views it as an opportunity to discover new ways to enjoy the things he loves. With every day that passes, he finds joy, strength, and a renewed appreciation for life’s adventures.
Bickford Assisted Living and Memory Care of Chesterfield
#HigherPath
#SuccessStory
#AssistedLiving
We just got certified as a Great Place to Work! Couldn’t be more proud of our team – we put our people first. @GPTW_US #gptw
We are thrilled to share an exciting new chapter in our Branches journey of providing the highest quality care and support for our residents. In our ongoing commitment to enhancing the lives of those we serve, we are proud to introduce the Montessori-inspired approach to care at Bickford of Chesterfield.
Montessori is a philosophy rooted in respect, dignity, and empowerment. Originally developed as a method of education, this approach has been beautifully adapted to support older adults, particularly those living with memory challenges. By focusing on each individual’s abilities, strengths, and preferences, the Montessori method enables us to create an environment that fosters purpose, engagement, and independence.
During our Family New Years Eve Party we presented "The Hands of the Generation" we currently care for.
Hands are a universal language, transcending age, race, and background. In the hands of our senior residents, we see:
Strength: Decades of hard work and perseverance.
Connection: The warmth of a handshake, the comfort of a touch.
Legacy: The marks of lives well-lived and lessons passed down.
As caregivers, we hold not just hands but histories. Each resident we serve has a unique journey, and their hands remind us to honor that journey daily. Whether it's helping with a simple task or holding hands during a quiet moment, we recognize the privilege of being part of their story.
Bickford Assisted Living and Memory Care
#dementia
#dementiaawareness
#memorycare
#assisted living
#montessori
#montessorifordementia
#seniorcare
#montessoriinspiredlifestyle
#centerforappliedresearchindementia
I am opposed to the new check in/out system. We used it at another facility and had many problems with it, many residents are unable to sign themselves in and out and I find a bit intrusive. If my hands are full I don't want to have to put everything down to sign in. My understanding was that the door fobs could monitor who comes in and out and are able to limit who shouldn't be allowed in and out.
Hi, there is a visitor at my Mom's(name removed)dinner table most every night. I understand family can have visitors to have dinner with them. Tonight, March 2nd, there was 2 visitors for this nice lady at the table. I have met her. So 4 residents eating at a table for 4 people and one resident has 2 visitors there at the table visiting with her. They are not eating, just sitting there talking. A very crowded situation. My Mom is too sweet and nice to complain, but she told me tonight she feels uncomfortable with that many people at her table. I personally prefer to visit with my Mom in the lobby(either before or after a meal) or other times.....and to let her eat her meal with those nice ladies there at the table. My opinion, is let the folks enjoy their meal. Maybe there is a new open spot my Mom can sit at. She makes friends easily and I remember (name removed) saying in a meeting with her before moving in.....that there is "not assigned seating" in the Dining room. I did speak with one of the workers there at dinner time tonight....and expressed my opinion.....she stated that 4 at a table and 2 visitors is fine. "Everbody gets to have visitors eat with them"...she said. A table of 4(there to eat their meal) with 2 visitors sitting and talking with their loved one, to me, is a bit of a crowd...imo. If further discussion is needed, let me know. Thanks, (name removed)
My (name removed) is happy and loves the activities and does wish there were more outings, even the scenic drives. I am satisfied with her care at this point and the staff are friendly and seem helpful. We have the least amount of care at this point, so I don't have much to go on as far as the medical services.
New housekeeper is doing a great job. Room cleaner than ever. | Also thanks for covid shot and rsv shot and adding more bingo. Loves it!!