It’s finally the Fall season, but you’d never know it looking at the front porch of Bickford of Crown Point. The efforts of our resident, June, have made a huge impact on the growth of our flourishing flowers and plants by making sure they received plenty of water and care throughout the season. Employing the Montessori inspired lifestyle, residents are able to “take charge” of their environment and contribute as they see fit. In this case, anyone who enters the building, as well as the residents, benefit from these beautiful blossoms. Let’s hope the first frost of the season holds out so we’re able to enjoy these beauties a lot longer.

Despite the blustery weather Saturday, Bickford of Crown Point moved forward with the scheduled yard sale. Although we might have experienced more success conducting the event in the “yard” outside, we still had a steady stream of shoppers coming into our inviting space to consider our goods, and many of them made purchases. With our residents running the show, they kept busy by directing, restocking, creating signs, and checking out customers. The Montessori guidelines allowed them to make decisions based on their preferences, and it was apparent from the customer comments they achieved success. The proceeds will be donated to the Lake County Walk to End Alzheimer’s fund, so it was a very worthwhile effort, and everyone was proud to be a part of it.

Community Yard Sale is STILL ON! Good news, everyone! Our Community Yard Sale at Bickford Assisted Living & Memory Care of Crown Point is still a go on Saturday, September 19th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM! Come shop for a great cause and discover treasures, housewares, handmade items, and more. Every purchase supports our residents' efforts to raise funds for the Lake County Walk to End Alzheimer's. Rain in the forecast? No problem! If the weather doesn't cooperate, we will simply move the sale indoors and continue the event as planned. 140 E. 107th Ave., Crown Point, IN 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM We look forward to welcoming our community for a fun day of shopping and supporting a cause close to our hearts. See you there! #CommunityYardSale #BickfordofCrownPoint #ShopForACause #WalkToEndAlzheimers #MontessoriLifestyle

This week the residents at Bickford of Crown Point had an opportunity to interact with the majestic horses at Exceptional Equestrians Unlimited, Inc. This wonderful all-volunteer lead organization offers a therapeutic horseback riding program for those with special needs. Our gang enjoyed this special Montessori Cafe event, as it was certainly quite different from previous experiences. Several residents seemed comfortable enough to stroke the heads of these glorious creatures, but some preferred to admire them from afar. It was interesting to watch a student session from the viewing room, as the horse calmly responded to the student’s every command. Many questions were asked by our group, and answered by the guide, Jeffrey, whose knowledge about the topic far exceeded our own. At the end of the program we were invited back, with some of the residents even expressing an interest in taking lessons. We’ll see about that!

Spur of the moment support in Fall decorating is always appreciated, and these ladies executed colorful centerpieces that really liven up Bickford of Crown Point. Jumping in to generate an environment that will reflect the kaleidoscope of colors Fall brings is a wonderful Montessori guideline, where the residents work together to establish an amazing place to live and thrive. Thanks for your expertise Pat and JoJo!

Working together to create a better place to live is a valuable Montessori principle our residents at Bickford of Crown Point practice routinely. One of the ways this is achieved is by inviting their talented friends to visit us. Our latest performer, John Ludwig, is a good friend of our June, and couldn’t wait to showcase his skills for our crowd. Switching from the classic familiar sound of the guitar to the piercing melody of the bagpipe was an interesting contrast of sounds. They enjoyed it all the same and many of them claimed hearing bagpipes live was a first for them. It’s all part of enriching lives and shaping an environment that’s just a little better than the day before!

Residents at Bickford of Crown Point have admitted they appreciate having the option of dining out at a different restaurant once a week. It’s a different dynamic and deeply enjoyable to become acquainted with strangers. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone once in a while can be exhilarating, especially if the experience is positive and those strangers become good friends. That’s why the Montessori Lifestyle is such an excellent set of guidelines to follow- it’s about building trust and treating others with respect - regardless of differences.

Shop for a Cause at Bickford's Community Yard Sale! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 19th from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM and discover hidden treasures while supporting a cause that matters! This special yard sale is resident-run and resident-operated, giving our residents the opportunity to put Montessori principles of purpose, choice, and engagement into action. From household items and unique finds to handmade treasures, there's something for everyone! All proceeds benefit Bickford's HigherPath Heroes team for the Lake County Walk to End Alzheimer's. Bickford of Crown Point 140 E. 107th Ave., Crown Point, IN We're still accepting donations! If you have household items, décor, kitchenware, small furniture, collectibles, or other gently used treasures you'd like to donate, we'd love to put them to good use. Please note: we are unable to accept clothing donations. Questions or want to donate items? Joshua Warren | 219-388-6160 Come support our residents, find a bargain, and help us make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer's disease! #CommunityYardSale #WalkToEndAlzheimers #HigherPathHeroes #MontessoriInspiredLifestyle #PurposeDrivenLiving

You're Invited to Bickford's Family Fall Fest! Fall is better when we're together! Join us on Friday, October 3rd from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for an afternoon filled with delicious food, music, family fun, and special moments with the people who matter most. Bring the kids, grandkids, and the whole family as we celebrate the season with our residents and team. Enjoy festive fall activities, great company, and create memories that will last long after the leaves have fallen. Bickford of Crown Point 140 E. 107th Ave. ???? October 3rd | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Free Admission All Ages Welcome Please RSVP with Joshua at 219-663-0972 or email crownpoint@bickfordseniorliving.com. We can't wait to celebrate fall with you! #BickfordFamily #MakingMemories #BickfordOfCrownPoint #SeniorLivingCommunity #FamilyTime

At Bickford of Crown Point, every birthday is special, and an opportunity to celebrate the cultivated lives we live. However, when your daughter travels across country, organizes a huge party, and supplies all the goodies, it’s exceptional. Our own Dorris who turned 97 recently, enjoyed this scenario when her daughter showed up from California. Seeing all her old friends and family, as well as new friends from Bickford, brought tears of joy, and she became as giddy as a schoolgirl. It’s clear to see this wonderful lady lived an amazing life, filled with close comrades and marvelous memories. This is such an appropriate example of living the Montessori lifestyle, in which all residents work together to create an authentic environment they thrive in. I’m sure in many ways, we all aspire to reach this same goal in life, as it is what makes us prosper as humans. Happy Birthday Dorris!!