Last week, Bickford of Crown Point was once again fortunate to receive a visit from the Petland Puppies. This experience has quickly become a favorite among our residents and staff alike. In identifying the 12 key Montessori Principles, of which this activity offered many, we couldn’t think of a better subject matter than adorable, warm puppies. After everyone had their fill of the cuteness, the pups were allowed to interact with each other, which was equally satisfying to watch. Anticipating which breeds will be enriching us next month is also a great conversation topic and brings much excitement to our group. Stay tuned for the next episode!

Bickford of Crown Point welcomed the National Honor Society students from Hanover High School last week! From the moment they stepped foot in the building, it was a whirlwind of activities, allowing the residents to dictate what interested them most, thus implementing the Montessori lifestyle. It began with a student prepared perfect picnic lunch held in the flourishing courtyard, where there was an equal exchange of questions and answers among the group. The students then assisted with fitness class, helping set up the seating, gathering residents, distributing weights, and even taking turns leading portions of the class. Next was the Wii challenge and putting practice, where certain students took it upon themselves to teach certain residents the “proper” form. They ended their time with our seniors by serving up delicious root beer floats, which were enjoyed by both groups. Everyone really benefited from this experience, especially the residents, who loved the extra attention and the pleasant interactions that took place. The students left a little wiser than they came, having listened to many stories and advice offered to them. In speaking with them, it was obvious they were raised right, being very kind, respectful, caring, and compassionate. It was such a memorable day for all, and we hope to have these extraordinary students back during the holiday season!

Higher Path Success Story This week, our Health & Wellness Directors and Care Coordinators are leading a major initiative as we transition our Medication Administration Record (MAR) into August Health. By bringing medication administration into the same platform as our residents' electronic health record (EHR), we are creating one source of truth for resident care. This integration improves efficiency, strengthens communication, reduces duplicate documentation, and supports medication safety. While this is a significant undertaking, the long-term benefits are substantial—allowing our teams to spend less time navigating multiple systems and more time focused on providing exceptional care to our residents. #HigherPath #AugustHealth #ClinicalExcellence #MedicationSafety #SeniorLiving #ResidentCare #Teamwork #ContinuousImprovement

Higher Path Success Story This week, our Health & Wellness Directors and Care Coordinators are leading a major initiative as we transition our Medication Administration Record (MAR) into August Health. By bringing medication administration into the same platform as our residents' electronic health record (EHR), we are creating one source of truth for resident care. This integration improves efficiency, strengthens communication, reduces duplicate documentation, and supports medication safety. While this is a significant undertaking, the long-term benefits are substantial—allowing our teams to spend less time navigating multiple systems and more time focused on providing exceptional care to our residents. #HigherPath #AugustHealth #ClinicalExcellence #MedicationSafety #SeniorLiving #ResidentCare #Teamwork #ContinuousImprovement

This week we conducted our monthly Montessori Cafe program with our determined residents at Bickford of Crown Point. Tricia from Epoxy Creations and Restorations set up our group with a clear white coaster, and a special formulated concoction of mika dust and a polymer emulsion which together creates a shimmering effect that is quite stunning. Our participants had fun with this, each choosing their own abstract design to embellish their empty slate, basically creating a mini artwork. Once finished, they were provided with an epoxy coating, which amplified the glistening effect and added a glossy protective layer. To finish it off, we slapped on a custom cork backing to supply a non slip quality, making the coaster more functional. This was such an excellent Montessori experience that captured interest and created purpose for our amazing residents.

Mark your calendars, Crown Point! On September 19th, Bickford of Crown Point is hosting a Community Yard Sale from 10am–2pm and it's one you don't want to miss. Here's what makes it special: this sale is planned and run by our own residents, start to finish. It's a hands-on Montessori Inspired experience that keeps our residents active, engaged, and proud of the work they're doing. And every dollar raised goes straight to Bickford's HigherPath Heroes team for the Lake County Walk to End Alzheimer's. So come shop for a cause. Treasures, housewares, and handmade finds all for a good reason. We're also accepting donations now through Friday, September 11th. We're looking for home good items and home decor. No clothing, please. Questions or want to drop something off? Contact Joshua Warren, Family Advocate, at 219-388-6160. See you September 19th. Let's show up for our residents and for a cause that means a lot to our Bickford family.

First harvest is ready at the Bickford of Crown Point garden! It’s small, but the residents were still excited to see their hard work paying off. Now to deliver those veggies to the kitchen, where the dining staff can use them to prepare delicious choices for the residents. Montessori Inspired Living is what it’s all about here, and we are thrilled to provide as many options possible, in every aspect of daily life at Bickford!

Just another day at Bickford of Crown Point, and our residents have their priorities in order! Whether motivated to shed pounds, improve range of motion, or just overall wellbeing, showing up is the first step in the right direction. Some even come early to set up chairs and pass out the weights because they want to encourage involvement in our community, exercising the Montessori principle of engagement. This class always finishes strong and returns the next day for more, building commitment to good habits, which makes our staff very proud!

The flower and veggie gardens at Bickford of Crown Point are thriving, thanks to the residents who care for it daily. The Montessori Inspired Lifestyle encourages community engagement that ultimately benefits everyone. All their watering, weeding, and feeding, has finally paid off, with many of the plants bearing veggies that are ready for collection. Now - what to make with all the delicious vegetables?