Exercise for older adults is a bit like oiling the hinges of a well-loved door. Without it, things get stiff, creaky, and harder to move. With it, life keeps swinging open. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, helping with memory, focus, and even slowing cognitive decline.

Alex’s daughter decided to visit and polish fingernails last weekend! We love the visits and the residents are tickled pink when the young people pop in!

Happy Birthday Carolyn! We hope it’s as great as you are!

Over the past several weeks, our Bread Basket team has faced an unexpected challenge with Theresa being out for a personal medical concern. During this time, our staff has truly embodied the Bickford motto of “Whatever it takes.” Whether stepping into the kitchen or covering the floor so others could assist, every person who helped made a meaningful difference. We are deeply grateful for the teamwork, flexibility, and heart each of you has shown. We also want to share an important update regarding our Bread Basket staffing model. Bickford has made changes that allow us to strengthen our kitchen team, and as a result, we have welcomed two new team members to support our dining experience here at Bickford of Fort Dodge. Home cooked meals are at the heart of what we do. They bring comfort, spark memories, and create moments of connection. We know that warm, familiar, freshly prepared food doesn’t just nourish our tenants — it helps keep them happier healthier longer, supporting both their emotional well being and overall quality of life. Our expanded team ensures we can continue delivering those meals with the care and consistency our tenants deserve. We are happy to share that Theresa will be returning on Monday. Upon her return, she has chosen to step down from her role as Bread Basket Manager and return to what she loves most — cooking for our tenants and staff. She will continue doing this full time, and we are grateful to have her expertise, passion and talent back in the kitchen. With this transition, we are pleased to introduce our 2 new Bread Basket Employes, our new manager Cory Dawson, who will begin next week. We are excited for the leadership and fresh perspective he will bring to the team, and Amy Jacobsma, who has already begun cooking full time with us. She is off to a fantastic start, and we are thrilled to have her on board. Thank you again to everyone who stepped up, supported one another, and ensured our tenants continued to receive the exceptional care and service they deserve. Your dedication does not go unnoticed. If you would like to come take a tour and join us for a meal give Mercedes a call at 515-573-3300. We would love to show you around and show off our Bread Basket. #higherpath #greaterfortdodgegrowthalliance #bickfordoffortdodge

⚾️ It’s OPENING DAY and the energy is off the charts! We kicked things off with some high-flying balloon swat—because who says you need a bat to bring the heat? Residents were swinging, laughing, and showing off their all-star moves! Some of our “major leaguers” decided to settle in for a classic—The Sandlot—bringing back all those sweet summertime memories of backyard baseball and legendary plays. “You’re killin’ me, Smalls!” echoed through the room ! Of course, no opening day is complete without the essentials: peanuts, Cracker Jack, fluffy cotton candy, and ice-cold bottles of Coca-Cola!

There’s something in the air… and it feels like spring! Today, we welcomed the season with fresh soil, tiny seeds, and a splash of color.

Some moments are just too good not to share! Yesterday, our wonderful (and slightly silly) director teamed up with one of our fun-loving residents to give our absolutely perfect Montessori Engagement Coordinator a run for her money… by sticking their tongues out at her! While she was busy being her amazing, organized, resident-focused self, these two decided a little playful rebellion was in order. The result? Laughter echoing down the halls, smiles all around, and a reminder that joy lives in the little moments !

The Bickford Difference in Fort Dodge: Care Built on Connection When searching for assisted living, families often focus on services and safety—but what truly matters is how residents feel every day. At Bickford Assisted Living in Fort Dodge, the difference is simple: our caregivers build real, meaningful relationships with residents. Here, care goes beyond routines. Our staff takes time to learn each resident’s preferences, stories, and personality. Whether it’s sharing a conversation, noticing the little things, or offering comfort on a tough day, these connections turn care into something deeply personal. This relationship-first approach creates a true sense of home. Residents aren’t just cared for—they’re known, valued, and genuinely connected to those around them. At Bickford Fort Dodge, it’s not just about providing care. It’s about creating moments, building trust, and making every resident feel like they belong. Call Mercedes our Family Advocate today to schedule a tour today at 515-605-7649 #BickfordofFortDodge #ThisIsFortDodge #HappinessMatters

Assisted Living Isn’t About Leaving Home… It’s About Gaining a Family When people think about assisted living, they often focus on what’s being left behind. At Bickford of Fort Dodge, we see it differently. You’re not losing independence — you’re gaining a family. A family where residents look out for one another, friendships grow naturally, and no one feels alone. A place where caregivers truly know each resident — their preferences, routines, and the little things that make them feel at home. Here, caregivers don’t just provide support — they advocate, care deeply, and truly love what they do. It’s morning coffee with friends. Meals made from scratch and shared with laughter. A home that feels warm, comfortable, and anything but institutional. Our community is intentionally designed to feel like home — warm, comfortable, and non-institutional. With a smaller, more intimate setting, we foster deeper connections and a true sense of community. Life here is centered around the things that matter most — relationships, purpose, and joy. From the moment you walk through our doors, you can feel it — it feels like love. Families gain peace of mind knowing their loved one is safe, supported, and able to age in place — without the stress of ever having to uproot again. And residents gain something even more meaningful: freedom, joy, and the time to build relationships and truly enjoy each day. This isn’t the end of a chapter — it’s the beginning of a beautiful new one. Come feel the difference for yourself. Because here, you’re not just a resident… you’re family. Call Mercedes or Christine at 515-573-3300 to schedule a tour.

We participated in the Tornado Emergency Drill today and everything went so smoothly! I overheard Marilyn and Irma talking about how they first became friends, and apparently it was during a drill like this ! They both had smiles on their faces as they recalled the story.