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
Dreama Camphuysen
Feb 6, 2025
Join Us for the Ultimate Soup Showdown! Calling all soup lovers! Are you ready to put your culinary skills to the test, or simply enjoy a cozy, delicious day of taste-testing? Whether you're a seasoned soup maker or just looking to indulge in a variety of warm, comforting bowls, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what to expect: Tasty Soups: A variety of soups Friendly Competition: Cheer on your favorites as they vie for the title of Soup Champion! Prizes & Surprises: Amazing prizes for the top "chefs"! Bickford of Chesterfield, Assisted Living and Memory Care #HigherPath #HappierHealthierLonger #BickfordofChesterfield #Soup
Samantha Matthews
Feb 5, 2025
Ms. F has always been a woman of adventure, her heart set on conquering the snowy peaks of the world. Diagnosed with osteoporosis, the thrill of skiing, once her passion, now seemed painfully out of reach. Upon moving into Bickford of Chesterfield, she struggled to reconcile her adventurous heart with the limitation imposed by her condition. She suffered several falls and fractures that chipped away at her confidence. She was placed on our Higher Path journey comprised of dedicated care staff and our in-house therapy team, Fox therapy. At first, the thought of therapy made her anxious. However, just as winter gives way to spring, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of Haley our Fox physical therapist. Our higher path team crafted a personalized plan that not only focused on her physical recovery but also turning her fear into determination. Haley utilized state of the art training, implementing their One Step RTM; our Bickford Serviam Fall Reduction Program designed to screen, collect, and monitor residents who are high fall risks. The fear of falling loomed large, but Haley was patient and understanding. Each session began with gentle exercises to strengthen her bones and improve her balance, followed by discussions that transported her mind to the slopes she longed to ride. She taught her that failure was not a fall but a steppingstone toward growth. As her strength returned, so did her dreams! With each passing memory of gliding down the slopes, she not only reclaimed her life but also inspired others in the branch to embrace their own journeys, proving that the higher path of living is often found in the courage to rise after every fall. At Bickford of Chesterfield the world is still open to you; let us help you take the first step. #HigherPath #SuccessStory
Dreama Camphuysen
Jan 30, 2025
Downsizing for Assisted Living: Creating a Beautiful and Private Space When transitioning to assisted living, the idea of downsizing can feel overwhelming. However, it also offers a chance to create a new, beautiful, and private space that truly feels like home. Start by focusing on what matters most. Instead of trying to bring everything along, prioritize the items that hold sentimental value or that you use daily. Whether it’s a favorite armchair, a cherished photo, or a beloved painting, these items will help make your new space feel familiar and comforting. Maximizing both function and comfort is essential. Look for multi-functional furniture that saves space, like a storage ottoman or a foldable table. Light colors, simple window treatments, and natural light will make the room feel airy and open, while personal touches—like soft blankets, plants, or artwork—will add warmth and personality. Lastly, staying organized will help maintain a peaceful, functional environment. Utilize storage solutions such as baskets, shelves, and bins to keep clutter at bay. Keeping things tidy and well-organized will allow you to enjoy your space to its fullest, creating a calming atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. By carefully selecting what to bring, focusing on comfort and organization, and adding personal details, you can turn your downsized living space into a beautiful and welcoming retreat. We invite you to tour our community and see firsthand how we’ve designed spaces to help you feel at home. Our team is ready to show you how we can make this transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Reach out today to schedule your visit! Bickford of Chesterfield, Assisted Living and Memory Care #HigherPath #HappierHealthierLonger #BickfordofChesterfield
Dreama Camphuysen
Jan 23, 2025
Your front door is more than just an entrance—it’s a reflection of YOU! At Bickford of Chesterfield, we believe that every resident deserves to have a space that truly feels like home. That’s why we encourage everyone to personalize their front doors to reflect their unique personalities. Whether it’s vibrant wreaths, custom signage, or thoughtful decorations, your front door is a wonderful way to express who you are and make your living space truly yours. We know that choosing a place to live is a big decision. From personalized touches like front door décor to our supportive services and welcoming atmosphere, we strive to ensure that each resident enjoys a space that brings joy and comfort. Ready to experience a community where individuality is celebrated and your space feels like home? Come take a tour today and see for yourself why Bickford is the perfect place to call home. #HomeIsWhereTheHeartIs #PersonalizedLiving #BickfordofChesterfield #HigherPath #HappierHealtherLonger Bickford of Chesterfield, Assisted Living and Memory Care
Dreama Camphuysen
Dec 31, 2024
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
Dreama Camphuysen
Dec 31, 2024
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
Samantha Matthews
Dec 9, 2024
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
Samantha Matthews
Nov 21, 2024
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
Dreama Camphuysen
Nov 19, 2024
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
Dreama Camphuysen
Oct 22, 2024
Fall is in the air at Bickford of Chesterfield! As the leaves change and the days get cooler, we’re embracing the beauty of the season with cozy activities and heartwarming moments. We invite you to come in for a tour and experience our Branch for yourself. It’s about connection, laughter, and the warmth of Bickford! #HigherPath #HappierHealthierLonger #SeniorLiving Bickford of Chesterfield, Assisted Living and Memory Care