BFM Spotlight: Meet Ellie At Bickford, our strength lies in the people who make up our vibrant community. In this edition of the BFM Spotlight, we’re proud to introduce you to Ellie — a shining example of the heart and spirit that define our team. Ellie is always seen with a contagious smile and an uplifting energy that lights up every room she enters. Her positivity, compassion, and commitment make her not only a valued team member but also a bright star within our Bickford family. When asked what she loves most about working at Bickford, Ellie shared: "I love working at Bickford because the values I hold most dear align perfectly with Bickford’s ideals of having a family-like culture filled with love, compassion, transparency, and hard work. I love the residents and the purpose and sense of fulfillment it gives me to have the privilege of taking care of them. Finally, I love my team and the companions I’ve made being here. They never fail to motivate me and put a smile on my face." Ellie’s words reflect what we strive for every day — to create a space where people feel valued, supported, and inspired. Her dedication to both her colleagues and the residents she serves is a true testament to the Bickford mission. We are honored to have Ellie as part of our team and excited to continue celebrating individuals like her who make Bickford such a special place. #BFMSpotlight #TeamBickford

We hope everyone had a happy 4th of July weekend! We enjoyed music, watched the hot dog eating contest, colored some patriotic pages, and visited with our families!

Once again, Mack’s cutting a rug! Thanks for being a perfect dance partner Kasi!

Decorating cookie for the 4th of July is what was the first order of business this morning! Thank you Teresa for making the cookies and delicious frosting!

Is your loved one pausing more when speaking? Word-finding difficulty is common with age—but slower overall speech may be a stronger early sign of cognitive decline. A recent study found that processing speed, more than word stumbles, predicts real-life language struggles. Staying mentally active through conversation and word games can help keep minds sharp—just like exercise does for the body! If you've noticed changes, call Mercedes at (515) 571-5492 or Christine at (515) 573-3300 to learn about our “Higher Path” program. original article can be found here: https://www.earth.com/news/speech-pattern-wfd-that-is-a-clear-indication-a-person-is-in-cognitive-decline/ The full study was published in the journal Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13825585.2024.2315774

Sometimes you’ve got to just dance! Macie and Mack were feeling the beat!

BFM Tay led the activity Saturday with brownies and painting! Thanks Tay! The residents really enjoyed themselves!

BFM Spotlight: Kord – Building Connections That Matter At Bickford, we believe that the relationships we build are at the heart of everything we do. Few people embody that belief as naturally as Kord. Kord is known around our branch for his energy, kindness, and genuine care for both residents and fellow team members. He’s the person who jumps in without hesitation, always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or brighten someone’s day. When we asked Kord what he enjoys most about working at Bickford, his answer was immediate and heartfelt: “I love working at Bickford because of the relationships you get to build with everyone. Whether it's talking about 80's music with Teresa or talking golf with Rande, I feel that I have a genuine connection with all my coworkers. Getting to spend time with the residents and getting to know their families—their sense of humor, their favorite things, the little quirks that make them who they are—is what makes me excited to come to work every day.” Kord reminds us that it’s the small, everyday moments that build something truly special. He doesn’t just show up—he connects. He listens, he learns, and he brings out the best in those around him. His passion for people, both residents and coworkers, is felt in every hallway and in every conversation. He makes our community stronger just by being himself. We’re so grateful for everything Kord brings to our Bickford family. Here’s to the connections, the laughter, and the heart he brings to our home every single day. Thank you, Kord, for being you

Mavis was at it again this morning tending to the courtyard plants! What would we do without her! The smile she has when she’s with plants and flowers is the best!