I would like to take a moment to express the important role that our volunteers play in our Higher Path Journey. Volunteers are at the heart of what we do, helping us create meaningful moments and enriching the lives of our residents in ways that go beyond daily care. Their kindness, compassion, and willingness to give their time help us fulfill our mission and truly bring our Higher Path Journey to life. We are fortunate to have an array of volunteers who support us here at Bickford of Fort Dodge. These are not paid staff—they come out of the kindness of their hearts to help our residents enjoy their lives and feel connected, valued, and uplifted. Pastor Bobbie Maltas comes on Tuesday mornings to hold Chapel Services, offering comfort and spiritual guidance. Pastor Caleb Blake and his family join us on Sunday afternoons to provide church services that our residents look forward to each week. Pastor AJ visits monthly to share music and song, bringing joy and energy to our home. Karen Thilges and friends come twice a month to play cards, creating laughter and social connection. The Fogleman Sisters bless us with their singing, and Irlene Larson joins us to play cards and lead Bible study, adding both fellowship and faith-based support. Our appreciation for all of our volunteers is beyond words. Their dedication to our tenants’ happiness is unsurpassed, and their presence is an essential part of our Higher Path Journey. We are deeply grateful for the time, love, and joy they share with our community. If you would like to come visit and see our volunteers in action call Mercedes at 515-573-3300 to schedule a tour. #higherpath #bickfordoffortdodge #greaterfortdodgegrowthalliance

What a fun day! We wrapped up the day with Sarsaparilla, Cowboy Caviar, Cow patties, little dogies, and pie!!! Then Harry cleaned house with his knowledge of everything western and western movies, and basically everything else! We played Western Hangman and sang along to Home on the Range! Thanks to all of our fantastic BFMS for their help today!

One of the biggest concerns families have when thinking about assisted living is whether their loved one will feel lonely or isolated. At Bickford of Fort Dodge, we see every day how important friendship and companionship are to a happy and fulfilling life. Moving into an assisted living community is about much more than receiving help with daily tasks. It is about becoming part of a family. Whether it's sharing a made-from-scratch meal, enjoying morning coffee together, taking part in activities, or simply visiting in the courtyard, these everyday moments often turn into lasting friendships. Having friends and a strong social circle can help reduce loneliness, improve emotional well-being, and give residents something to look forward to each day. Many of our residents discover that they are surrounded by people with similar life experiences, interests, and stories to share. Those connections create a sense of belonging and help make Bickford feel like home. Our smaller, home-like environment allows our staff to truly know each resident and encourage meaningful relationships. We love watching new friendships grow and seeing the smiles that come from knowing there is always someone nearby to talk with, laugh with, or enjoy the day alongside. At Bickford of Fort Dodge, we believe that the best memories are still waiting to be made, and sometimes all it takes is finding a new friend to share them with. Call Mercedes today at 515-605-7649 to schedule a tour and see how Bickford of Fort Dodge can provide not only exceptional care, but a true sense of community and friendship. #CaringMatters #Friendshipsmatter #BickfordofFortDodge

Today, BFM Alciene was having entirely too much fun posing for western pictures with Dianne and Marj. While Alciene was fully committed to her role as a rootin’, tootin’ cowgirl, Dianne’s facial expressions suggested she may have been reconsidering this friendship.

Exercise Hour looked a little different today at Bickford… and we wouldn’t have had it any other way! Instead of our usual routine, residents took over the playlist and turned exercise hour into a trip down memory lane. Gary loves Eddy Arnold’s Cattle Call, Leanna wanted Happy Trails, and Merle made sure we listened to some Gene Autry favorites. Before long, we were singing along to old classics, sharing memories, and enjoying every minute. We even attempted to learn the Chicken Dance. Let’s just say our enthusiasm far exceeded our talent! Our seated line dancing efforts were equally ambitious, though not exactly award-winning. Fortunately, laughter counts as exercise too! The music sparked wonderful conversations. Marilyn’s husband played in a polka band, so naturally we sang along to Roll Out the Barrel. Donna and her hubby Don traveled the country in a square dancing club, and we spent some time watching square dancers in action. Music has a remarkable way of bringing people together, stirring memories, encouraging movement, and creating joy. Today’s exercise hour may not have burned the most calories, but it certainly filled our hearts. Sometimes the best workout is exercising your memories and your smile. #BickfordSeniorLiving #MusicAndMemory #ExerciseHour #MakingMemories #HappyTrails

The Wild West came to Bickford today! Our cowboys and cowgirls saddled up for a day full of laughter, Western fun, and plenty of frontier spirit! From outlaws and horse thieves to saloon regulars and sheriffs, everyone got into character and helped bring the Old West to life.

Western Day took a turn when Carolyn was spotted holding court at the saloon! Between her quick wit, great stories, and contagious laughter, she had quite the crowd gathered around.

With his cowboy hat on and a grin from ear to ear, Chuck helped make our day full of laughter, stories, and plenty of Western fun. We’d gladly ride the trail with this cowboy any day! #BickfordWesternDay #CowboyChuck #WildWestFun

Wanted! Harry the Horse Thief was spotted at Bickford’s Western Day! Witnesses report he was armed with a cowboy hat, a big smile, and a suspicious amount of charm!

WATCH OUT, BICKFORD! Western Day started off a little wild when the notorious Outlaw Richard rode into town! Armed with a cowboy hat, a quick wit, and a grin that could charm the sheriff right out of his boots, Richard spent the day keeping everyone on their toes. Rumor has it he was wanted for stealing extra dessert, telling tall tales, and causing excessive laughter throughout the branch. Despite several attempts to bring him to justice, residents and staff were caught enjoying his company far too much to turn him in! At Bickford Senior Living, theme days are about more than dressing up. They bring opportunities for laughter, social connection, reminiscing, and making new memories together. Western Day was packed with smiles, friendship, and enough cowboy spirit to fill the entire prairie.