At Bickford, we know that when you choose us, you’re placing your loved one in our hands — and that trust means everything. That’s why education is at the heart of our Higher Path Model. Every new team member completes 12.25 hours of dementia training before ever caring for residents, and all staff continue with 9.75 hours of refresher training each year. For families, this matters because education ensures your loved one is met not only with skill, but with understanding. Training helps our staff see the person behind the diagnosis — the parent, grandparent, or spouse whose life story deserves to be honored. It teaches us to respond with patience, kindness, and respect, so every moment of care feels personal and dignified. Here at Fort Dodge Bickford, we carry this commitment into our monthly staff meetings, where we share new insights and practical ways to better support your loved ones. These conversations remind us that our work is not just about care — it’s about connection, and about giving families peace of mind knowing their loved one is surrounded by people who truly care.

Busy making ornaments for the dining room tree!

Residents enjoyed helping Grace decorate the dining room Christmas tree! They really looked like they were having fun!

Dianne really enjoys looking at the Christmas Trees! She told Grace that the fluffy Christmas ornament was her, and that the shimmery ornament was Dianne!

We enjoyed wine and cheese for happy hour!

Don’t Let the Snow Stop You—Take a Virtual Tour of Bickford Winter weather can make getting out and about a little tricky, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your search for the right community on hold. At Bickford, we offer virtual tours so you can explore our beautiful community without ever leaving home. You can look through our welcoming common areas, see our apartments, and get a feel for daily life here—all from the comfort of your couch. It’s an easy, convenient way to learn more about what makes Bickford special, even on the snowiest of days. To set up your virtual tour, contact Mercedes, our Family Advocate, at 515-605-7649. She’ll be happy to help you find a time that works for you. Stay warm, and we look forward to showing you around. #Caringmatters #Staywarm #BickfordofFortDodge #ThisisFortDodge

Understanding and Addressing SAD As winter approaches and daylight hours shorten, many older adults experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a type of depression linked to reduced sunlight exposure. SAD is more than “winter blues”; it can significantly affect mental and physical health if left untreated. What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder? SAD is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most often appearing in late fall and winter. For seniors, the impact can be greater due to: • Reduced mobility: Less ability to get outdoors for sunlight and exercise. • Limited sunlight exposure: Shorter days and overcast skies reduce natural light. • Increased isolation: Cold weather can make social activities harder to attend. Common Symptoms in Seniors • Persistent low mood or irritability • Fatigue and oversleeping • Loss of interest in hobbies or social events • Changes in appetite or weight Recognizing these signs early is important, as untreated SAD can contribute to other health concerns such as weakened immunity, cardiovascular strain, or worsening chronic conditions. Why Proactive Care Matters Addressing SAD requires more than treating symptoms—it calls for preventive strategies that support overall wellness. Approaches may include: • Physical activity: Gentle exercise indoors or outdoors when possible. • Social connection: Structured opportunities to engage with peers and family. • Nutrition and sleep support: Balanced meals and healthy sleep routines. The Higher Path at Bickford of Fort Dodge At Bickford of Fort Dodge, we use the Higher Path model—a nationally recognized proactive health system—to help seniors thrive year-round. This approach integrates: • Interdisciplinary care teams that monitor both mental and physical health. • Personalized care plans tailored to each resident’s needs. • Outcome-focused technology that tracks progress and ensures effective interventions. By combining education, prevention, and personalized support, we aim to transform winter from a season of risk into a season of resilience.

Bickford Cottage of Fort Dodge is an Assisted Living and Memory Care community, where everything we do is rooted in intention—not reactivity. Every exercise class, every music session, and every memory care activity is thoughtfully designed to support strength, cognition, engagement, and overall well-being. We focus on what truly matters: • Intentional wellness programs that promote mobility, confidence, and independence. • Meaningful activities that encourage connection, creativity, and joy. • Purposeful memory care that honors each resident’s history, abilities, and individuality. • Support that empowers independence—many of our residents continue to drive, manage their own medications, and live as independently as they choose, with the reassurance that help is available if ever needed. • A team who genuinely wants to be here—our staff care deeply about our residents, and it shows in the warmth, patience, and dedication they bring each day. • Meals created with intention—our menus are designed by our dietitian to support nutrition, health, and socialization. We do not rely on processed foods or pre-made meals from distribution centers. Everything is prepared with care to nourish both body and community. • Nourishment and Support for spiritual well-being—we offer multiple spiritual services and opportunities for reflection, comfort, and connection to lift up the spirit and meet each resident’s unique spiritual needs, including good old fashioned hymn sings and in person church services, communions and study groups.. While our quality metrics can stand beside anyone else’s, what sets us apart cannot be measured on paper. It’s the feeling of home when you walk through the door. It’s the sense of family shared between residents, staff, and loved ones. It’s the warmth, familiarity, and genuine connection that fill our community every day. If you’re looking for a place where intention guides every moment—and where your loved one can remain as independent as they choose while receiving thoughtful, personalized support—we invite you to visit and experience the difference for yourself. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact Mercedes 515-571-5492 or Christine at 515-573-3300.

Bickford Cottage of Fort Dodge is an Assisted Living and Memory Care community, where everything we do is rooted in intention—not reactivity. Every exercise class, every music session, and every memory care activity is thoughtfully designed to support strength, cognition, engagement, and overall well-being. We focus on what truly matters: • Intentional wellness programs that promote mobility, confidence, and independence. • Meaningful activities that encourage connection, creativity, and joy. • Purposeful memory care that honors each resident’s history, abilities, and individuality. • Support that empowers independence—many of our residents continue to drive, manage their own medications, and live as independently as they choose, with the reassurance that help is available if ever needed. • A team who genuinely wants to be here—our staff care deeply about our residents, and it shows in the warmth, patience, and dedication they bring each day. • Meals created with intention—our menus are designed by our dietitian to support nutrition, health, and socialization. We do not rely on processed foods or pre-made meals from distribution centers. Everything is prepared with care to nourish both body and community. • Nourishment and Support for spiritual well-being—we offer multiple spiritual services and opportunities for reflection, comfort, and connection to lift up the spirit and meet each resident’s unique spiritual needs, including good old fashioned hymn sings and in person church services, communions and study groups.. While our quality metrics can stand beside anyone else’s, what sets us apart cannot be measured on paper. It’s the feeling of home when you walk through the door. It’s the sense of family shared between residents, staff, and loved ones. It’s the warmth, familiarity, and genuine connection that fill our community every day. If you’re looking for a place where intention guides every moment—and where your loved one can remain as independent as they choose while receiving thoughtful, personalized support—we invite you to visit and experience the difference for yourself. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact Mercedes 515-571-5492 or Christine at 515-573-3300.

We’re excited to introduce our therapy partners, Millennium Therapy and Ensign Therapy. These dedicated teams provide speech, occupational, and physical therapy services—right here in your home. Therapies play an important role in helping people stay independent, safe, and confident in daily life. • Speech therapy can improve communication and swallowing. • Occupational therapy helps with everyday activities like dressing, cooking, and managing routines. • Physical therapy builds strength, balance, and mobility to reduce the risk of falls and keep you moving. Just like the care you’d receive in a skilled setting, they bring the same expertise and support directly to you. If you’ve recently had a hospital stay or noticed changes in your health, and feel therapy could be helpful, we’ll be glad to arrange it. Contact Laura our Health and Wellness Director at 515-573-3300 if you would like to know more about our therapy services for your loved ones. Together, we’re here to make sure you have the resources you need to stay strong, safe, and supported. #bickfordoffortdodge #greaterfortdodgegrowthalliance #bickfordseniorliving