One of the favorite activities is Cooking Club. Cooking is very therapeutic! It also involves team work! The best part is eating what we make!:#bickfordofsiouxcity

Why Winter Is a Smart Time to Move to Assisted Living When most people think about moving, winter isn’t the first season that comes to mind. Cold weather, snow, and shorter days can make any transition feel daunting. However, for seniors and their families, winter can actually be one of the best times to move into assisted living. From safety and comfort to availability and peace of mind, there are many reasons why making the move during the winter months is a smart and proactive choice. 1. Increased Safety During Harsh Weather Winter weather brings unique challenges, especially for older adults living alone. Icy sidewalks, snowy driveways, and slippery stairs significantly increase the risk of falls. In assisted living communities, snow removal, ice management, and safe indoor walkways are handled by trained staff. Residents don’t need to worry about shoveling, salting, or navigating dangerous conditions—safety is built into daily life. 2. Reliable Support When It’s Needed Most Cold and flu season peaks during winter, and health concerns can escalate quickly. Assisted living communities provide access to caregivers who can help monitor health changes, manage medications, and offer support around the clock. Having professional assistance readily available during the winter months provides reassurance not only for residents, but also for their families. 3. Warm, Comfortable Living Without the Stress Heating issues, power outages, and winter maintenance can be stressful for seniors living independently. Assisted living communities are designed to remain warm, well-lit, and fully operational during winter weather. Residents can enjoy cozy apartments, nutritious meals, and comfortable common areas without worrying about home maintenance or utility emergencies. 4. Easier Transitions and More Availability Winter is often a quieter season for moves, which can mean greater availability of apartments and more flexibility with move-in dates. Staff may have more time to focus on new residents, helping them settle in, learn routines, and feel at home. This extra attention can make the transition smoother and less overwhelming. 5. Built-In Social Connection During Shorter Days Winter can feel isolating, especially for seniors who no longer drive or prefer to stay indoors during bad weather. Assisted living communities offer daily activities, social events, and opportunities to connect with others—all without needing to leave the building. From game nights and fitness classes to holiday celebrations, residents stay engaged and connected even when it’s cold outside. 6. A Fresh Start Before Spring Moving in winter allows seniors to adjust to their new environment before the busy spring and summer months. By the time warmer weather arrives, residents are already comfortable, familiar with staff, and able to fully enjoy outdoor spaces, family visits, and seasonal activities without the stress of a recent move. 7. Peace of Mind for Families For families, winter can heighten concerns about a loved one living alone. Knowing that someone is safe, warm, cared for, and surrounded by support during the coldest months brings invaluable peace of mind. Instead of worrying about weather-related emergencies, families can focus on spending quality time together. Final Thoughts While winter may seem like an unconventional time to move, it offers many advantages for seniors considering assisted living. Enhanced safety, consistent care, social connection, and comfort during the most challenging season of the year make winter a practical—and often ideal—time for this important life transition. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, don’t wait for spring. Winter could be the perfect season for a safer, more supported, and more fulfilling lifestyle. Call Abbie to schedule a tour, 712-301-8165.

We rang in the New Year with with bang! Party food drinks games and laughter were on the agenda! Good times in the Bickford Neighborhood!#bickfordofsiouxcity

It has been a jam packed month of fun and ,food. and music,and laughter,and family! We do not know what happened to December!! We do know it was great! We also are thankful for our wonderful community if support! We are blessed ! #bickfordofsiouxcity

Finding the right assisted living community is about more than just availability—it’s about finding a place that feels like home. We’re happy to share that we currently have openings and are welcoming new residents who are looking for comfort, support, and meaningful connections. One of the most special parts of our community is the friendships that grow here. Right now, two wonderful ladies in our assisted living community are hoping to welcome a new friend. They enjoy good conversation, sharing stories, and spending time together during activities and meals. Whether it’s chatting over coffee, joining in on group events, or simply enjoying each other’s company, they believe everything is better when shared with a friend. Assisted living offers the perfect balance of independence and support. Residents can enjoy their own routines while having access to personalized care, engaging activities, and a caring staff that’s always nearby. Most importantly, it’s a place where no one has to feel alone. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, now is a wonderful time to explore your options. With current availability and a friendly community ready to welcome someone new, this could be the start of a meaningful new chapter—filled with comfort, care, and friendship. For more information or to schedule a tour, please reach out to Abbie @ 712-208-8334. We’d love to help you find the perfect fit and maybe even introduce you to two ladies who are ready to make a new friend.

We partied two days in a row! We were blessed and merry at our Family Christmas Party! Then we were silly and many laughs were had at our Ugly Sweater and Games party! Thank you to Wendy ,Jennifer, Michelle . and Iris for hosting the games!

Purposeful Holiday Fun: Montessori-Inspired Reindeer Treat Bags! Residents enjoyed meaningful, hands-on work as they created treat bags for our guests. Combining holiday joy with Montessori values of independence and contribution.

Our team is dressing in holiday themes until Christmas and it certainly makes for great conversation starters! “Let’s Get Lit” day offered twinkling hair accessories to blinking Christmas lighted necklaces. The branch is buzzing with festive vibes! We love this time of year- stop in and experience it with us!

Magnus has been busy around the Branch! He has found his way to the library, the breakroom to keep our hard working BFMs company, adding a little fun to our Christmas decor and he really loves the Pet Lifesong station. Stick around to see what he gets into next week! #assistedliving #memorycare #bickfordofsiouxcity #elfontheshelf

From posing for holiday portraits to poking for presents, our Holiday party was full of fun and laughter! #Bickfordofsiouxcity