Staying active is so important at every stage of life, and here in our community we love finding ways to keep moving together! One of the most special parts of our exercise time is that it’s resident-led. Our residents help guide the movements, encourage one another, and share their own routines that keep them feeling strong and energized. It’s a wonderful reminder that everyone has something valuable to contribute. Exercise helps improve balance, strength, and flexibility, but it also brings laughter, connection, and a sense of accomplishment. When residents lead the way, it creates an environment full of support, confidence, and community spirit. We are so proud of our residents for showing that staying active can be fun, empowering, and something we can all do together! #SeniorLiving #StayActive #HealthyAging #ResidentLed #StrongerTogether#HigherPath#BickfordofWestDesMoines

Baking Club Fun for St. Patrick’s Day! Today in Baking Club we got into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit by making some delicious cake pops! Our residents had a wonderful time mixing, rolling, dipping, and decorating their sweet treats. Activities like this aren’t just about the yummy results (although those are a big bonus!) — they’re about creativity, socializing, and making special memories together. The kitchen was full of laughter, a little bit of green, and lots of smiles as everyone worked together. Baking is such a fun way for our residents to stay engaged, share stories, and enjoy the simple joy of creating something with their own hands. We might have gotten a little messy, but that just means we had extra fun! #BakingClub #StPatricksDay #SeniorLivingFun #HigherPath #WestDesMoines #Bickford #MakingMemories

Today we had a blast bringing a little technology into our building! Our residents spent some time playing the Wii, and it was amazing to see the laughter, friendly competition, and big smiles that filled the room. From bowling to swinging the controller, everyone enjoyed giving it a try! Technology like the Wii is important for older generations because it helps keep the mind active, encourages movement, and gives residents a chance to try something new. It also connects generations—many of our residents love learning about the games their grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoy. Most importantly, it reminds us that fun doesn’t have an age limit. Today proved that a little technology can go a long way in creating joy, laughter, and great memories together. #HigherPath #WestDesMoines #BickfordSeniorLiving #SeniorActivities #ActiveAging #JoyInEveryDay#MakingMemories

Keeping our minds active is just as important as keeping our bodies moving — and today we put those brains to work in the most fun way! We played a game called “What’s in the Bag?” where residents closed their eyes, reached inside, and had to guess what mystery item they were holding using only their sense of touch. No peeking allowed! There were lots of laughs, a few very confident guesses, and some pretty creative answers. It’s amazing to watch how activities like this spark memory, encourage conversation, and get everyone thinking. Sensory games help strengthen cognitive skills, build confidence, and keep those problem-solving muscles strong — all while having a great time together. Moments like these remind us that staying mentally stimulated doesn’t have to feel like work… it can feel like fun, connection, and a room full of smiles. We love finding new ways to challenge and celebrate the incredible minds in our community! #AgingWithJoy#HigherPath#WestDesMoines#BickfordSeniorLiving#EngagedAging

Sometimes the sweetest moments aren’t the ones that go perfectly — they’re the ones where we simply slow down and enjoy each other’s company. Today we celebrated our resident birthday party, and while our cake didn’t quite turn out the way we planned, we didn’t let that stop us! We shared fresh strawberries, lots of laughter, and settled in to watch a movie together. It was a beautiful reminder that it’s not about perfection — it’s about presence. Taking the time to sit side by side, share stories, and celebrate one another is what truly makes days like today special. Happy Birthday to all of our February residents! We are so grateful to celebrate with you. #HappyBirthday #HigherPath #WestDesMoines #EnjoyTheLittleMoments

Please join us this evening for our Support Group! If you have any questions, please contact our family advocate, Brittany! 515-400-3321

Some of the best moments are the simplest ones. Today we turned our living room into a volleyball court and had a blast playing balloon volleyball! Lots of laughs, a little friendly competition, and plenty of teamwork filled the room. Activities like this aren’t just fun — they keep us moving, improve coordination, and most importantly, bring everyone together. Seeing our residents cheering each other on and reaching for that balloon with big smiles is exactly why we do what we do. Who knew a balloon could bring so much joy?

Mardi Gras Fun at Our Community! This week we had so much fun celebrating Mardi Gras together! Our residents gathered for a festive lunch filled with great food, bright colors, and even brighter smiles. The room was decorated in classic purple, green, and gold, and you could truly feel the joy of the holiday in the air. There was lots of laughter, wonderful conversation, and a beautiful sense of togetherness as we enjoyed the celebration side by side. We love any opportunity to celebrate special traditions with our residents — and Mardi Gras was a perfect reason to come together and enjoy the day! #SeniorLivingLife #MardiGras #CommunityJoy #LetTheGoodTimesRoll #HigherPath #WestDesMoines

Today at Ladies Club, we were reminded that it’s not always about the final product — it’s about the laughter, the conversations, and the time spent together. We tried a new craft this week, and while it may not have been everyone’s favorite outcome, what was a success was the room full of smiles, opinions, creativity, and connection. At our community, Ladies Club is about so much more than crafts. It’s about friendship, encouragement, sharing stories, and having a space where our residents can simply be themselves. Sometimes we love the project… and sometimes we laugh about how it didn’t quite turn out as planned — and that’s okay too! Every activity is an opportunity to engage, create, and build community. And that’s something we will always celebrate. #SeniorLivingLife #LadiesClub #ConnectionMatters #CreativeMoments

Today is Ash Wednesday, and here in our community, we are honored to offer two different church services so our residents can observe this meaningful day in a way that feels personal and comfortable to them. As an Activities Director, I see every day how important faith and spiritual connection are to so many of our residents. Church isn’t just about tradition — it’s about community, reflection, hope, and comfort. It brings familiar hymns, cherished prayers, and a sense of peace that carries through the rest of the week. Ash Wednesday marks a time of renewal, humility, and preparation. For many of our residents, this season holds deep memories and lifelong traditions. Being able to continue those traditions here at home means everything. We are so grateful to create spaces where faith can be practiced, honored, and shared. Today we reflect. Today we gather. Today we begin again.