HIGHER PATH SUCCESS STORY: Susan B. is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible with the right support, the right environment, and a team that truly sees the whole person.
Today, we celebrate Susan as a true Higher Path success story at Bickford of Virginia Beach.
When Susan first came to us, she had been struggling in an independent living setting without the level of support she needed. She was on the Lower Path—experiencing increased confusion, stress, and difficulty staying engaged day to day. But with our collaborative Higher Path model—blending nursing, therapy, and Montessori-inspired engagement—Susan’s story has taken a remarkable turn.
With the support of her therapist Shelby from FOX Rehabilitation, Susan has become more social, more engaged, and full of stories—especially when sharing her love of animals and her life in Vermont and New Mexico. Therapy sessions are now filled with conversation and meaningful progress as she works on her walking and balance.
But Susan’s growth goes far beyond therapy.
She’s formed close friendships and enjoys walking outside with them. She joins morning exercise, participates in daily activities, and confidently shares her preferences—whether it’s meals or how she wants to spend her day. She’s experienced healthy weight gain, reduced stress, and improved orientation—now able to find her room and ask for help when needed.
Most of all, Susan brings light wherever she goes. Her kindness, her warmth, and her “sunshine personality” have become part of the heart of our branch.
Susan is thriving—not because everything is done for her, but because everything is done with her.
Her journey is a powerful example of how the Bickford Senior Living Higher Path model restores confidence, connection, and joy. And we are so honored to walk alongside her every step of the way.
Heather Cress
Apr 30, 2026
BFM Lyric encouraged our Mary B’s Symphony residents to exercise with a fun activity: balloon tennis! Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 28, 2026
At Bickford of Virginia Beach, proactive care is part of our Higher Path approach to senior health and wellness. Each quarter, Dietician Donna visits our branch to connect with residents, collaborate with our culinary team, and partner with leadership to help support personalized nutrition and overall well-being. Her presence is an important part of ensuring our residents’ health needs are thoughtfully supported through education, collaboration, and a commitment to enhancing quality of life. Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 28, 2026
Sunshine, fresh air, and meaningful moments—our Mary B’s Symphony residents at Bickford of Virginia Beach enjoyed a beautiful day in the courtyard soaking up the warmth and serenity of the outdoors. Time outside offers so many wonderful benefits, from boosting mood and encouraging relaxation to supporting overall wellness and connection. Whether sharing smiles, conversation, or simply enjoying the sunshine, these peaceful moments help make each day brighter. Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 24, 2026
A simple, peaceful moment shared together. Our Montessori Engagement Coordinator, Sueanna, spent time with a group of residents reading Chicken Soup for the Soul. Residents enjoyed listening as the stories unfolded, creating a calm and comforting atmosphere. Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 23, 2026
HIGHER PATH SUCCESS STORY: Susan B. is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible with the right support, the right environment, and a team that truly sees the whole person. Today, we celebrate Susan as a true Higher Path success story at Bickford of Virginia Beach. When Susan first came to us, she had been struggling in an independent living setting without the level of support she needed. She was on the Lower Path—experiencing increased confusion, stress, and difficulty staying engaged day to day. But with our collaborative Higher Path model—blending nursing, therapy, and Montessori-inspired engagement—Susan’s story has taken a remarkable turn. With the support of her therapist Shelby from FOX Rehabilitation, Susan has become more social, more engaged, and full of stories—especially when sharing her love of animals and her life in Vermont and New Mexico. Therapy sessions are now filled with conversation and meaningful progress as she works on her walking and balance. But Susan’s growth goes far beyond therapy. She’s formed close friendships and enjoys walking outside with them. She joins morning exercise, participates in daily activities, and confidently shares her preferences—whether it’s meals or how she wants to spend her day. She’s experienced healthy weight gain, reduced stress, and improved orientation—now able to find her room and ask for help when needed. Most of all, Susan brings light wherever she goes. Her kindness, her warmth, and her “sunshine personality” have become part of the heart of our branch. Susan is thriving—not because everything is done for her, but because everything is done with her. Her journey is a powerful example of how the Bickford Senior Living Higher Path model restores confidence, connection, and joy. And we are so honored to walk alongside her every step of the way.
Heather Cress
Apr 23, 2026
There’s something special about bringing beauty into a shared space—especially when it’s created by the hands of those who call it home. Our residents recently spent time flower arranging to create centerpieces for the dining room, filling the space with color, creativity, and pride. Roberta, who has always had a love for flowers, often takes the lead—guiding others, sharing ideas, and inspiring participation with her natural eye for design. This is Montessori in action. By tapping into past interests and giving residents meaningful roles, we foster a sense of purpose, independence, and contribution. Something as simple as arranging flowers becomes an opportunity for leadership, connection, and creating a home that truly reflects those who live here. And every time we sit down to dine, we’re reminded—these aren’t just centerpieces, they’re expressions of joy and belonging. Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 22, 2026
Lunch today gave everyone a delicious choice—Beef Enchilada Casserole or Chicken Cutlet with Spinach, Bacon, and Feta…take your pick!! On the side, we enjoyed herb roasted tomatoes, sautéed squash, glazed sweet potatoes, and a fresh baked roll. (Not photographed but just as enjoyed—a crisp green salad and a hot fudge sundae for dessert!) All made fresh in our Bread Basket Scratch Kitchen, where every meal is prepared with care and a touch of home. Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 22, 2026
Our Bickford version of Jeopardy brought quite the crowd today! Thanks to the creativity of our Montessori Engagement Coordinator, residents gathered for a fun and engaging game filled with laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of brainpower. Activities like Jeopardy aren’t just entertaining—they help support memory, stimulate thinking, and encourage social connection. We love finding ways to keep our minds active while having a great time together! Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 21, 2026
A farewell visit by BFM Madelyn, CNA….Madelyn’s husband is in the Coast Guard and has orders to Miami, FL. She couldn’t leave without spending her final night in Virginia Beach visiting her beloved residents and giving them each a sweet little token handmade by her. While in FL, she'll be attending Keiser University working on her accelerated BSN. She will be sorely missed by her co-workers and residents. Good Luck, Madelyn!! Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care
Heather Cress
Apr 16, 2026
Every spring, our courtyard becomes a peaceful haven for new beginnings—and this year is no exception. Our residents have truly enjoyed watching the sweet ducklings as they hatch and explore in the safety of our space. There’s something special about witnessing these moments together—the curiosity, the conversations, and the simple joy it brings to everyone. While the ducklings will be safely relocated to a local pond this weekend, we are grateful for the time we’ve had to share in this seasonal tradition right here at home. Bickford of Virginia Beach Assisted Living and Memory Care