A Little Help Goes a Long Way Today was a reminder of how teamwork can turn a simple task into something meaningful. Vern had been wanting to fix Bickford’s mailbox for a while, but it wasn’t something he could tackle alone. That’s when Nic Lyon stepped in to lend a hand. Together, they didn’t just repair a mailbox—they created a higher path for Vern. He’s always missed working with his hands, and this project gave him the chance to reconnect with that feeling. Nic’s willingness to assist made all the difference, and the two worked side by side to get the job done. Sometimes, it’s not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about building connections and finding joy in the process. #higherpath #bickfordwestdesmoines

Celebrating Jasmina’s Nomination for Kitchen Manager of the Year! At Bickford Senior Living, we believe that great food brings people together—and Jasmina has been the heart of that experience for our residents and team. Monday, we were thrilled to share some exciting news: Jasmina has been nominated for Kitchen Manager of the Year! This nomination is more than an award—it’s a reflection of Jasmina’s passion, creativity, and dedication to making every meal special. Her commitment to quality and her ability to create a warm, welcoming dining experience have touched the lives of everyone in our community. The best part? Our residents and employees surprised Jasmina with the nomination! Their smiles, cheers, and heartfelt words showed just how much she means to all of us. It was a beautiful moment of appreciation and gratitude. Jasmina, thank you for your hard work and the love you put into every dish. You make Bickford feel like home, and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate you today. Congratulations, Jasmina—you truly deserve this honor! #higherpath #bickfordseniorlivingwestdesmoines

Big Smiles and Healthy Moves: Halle Brings Joy to “Sit and Be Fit” at Bickford of West Des Moines At Bickford of West Des Moines, we believe wellness is more than just physical health—it’s about creating moments of joy, connection, and purpose. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce Halle, our new Life Enrichment Coordinator, who is already making a big impact with her energy and creativity. One of the highlights of Halle’s arrival has been her fresh approach to our “Sit and Be Fit” sessions. These classes are designed to keep residents active and engaged through gentle, chair-based exercises that promote strength, flexibility, and circulation. But Halle has taken it to the next level—infusing each session with laughter, music, and encouragement that turns exercise into a celebration. Residents aren’t just moving their bodies—they’re smiling, clapping, and connecting with one another. Halle’s enthusiasm is contagious, and her ability to make fitness fun is helping everyone feel stronger and happier. Whether it’s a lively warm-up or a cool-down filled with positive affirmations, Halle ensures every participant leaves feeling accomplished and uplifted. At Bickford, we know that life enrichment is about more than activities—it’s about creating experiences that nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Halle embodies that mission, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her on our team. #higherpath #bickfordseniorlivingwestdesmoines

A Cozy Fall Cider Night in Our Small, Close-Knit Community This Thursday, November 20th | 5:00 - 6:30 PM As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, we’re reminded of the beauty in slowing down and savoring the moments we share with others. This Thursday, we invite you to join us for a special evening of warmth, connection, and cider. In our smaller community, every face feels familiar, every conversation matters, and every laugh is a little louder. It's in these simple, shared moments where we find the true spirit of friendship and belonging. What’s on tap for the evening? ~ Warm cider to sip and savor ~ Fun fall activities to spark creativity ~ Conversations that deepen our bonds ~Cozy tunes and lots of laughs ~The kind of connection that only a smaller community can offer This is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to reconnect, build new friendships, and celebrate the strength of our community. Because when we come together, the moments feel richer and the connections run deeper. We can't wait to share this evening with YOU! #SmallCommunityBigHeart #CiderNight #FallVibes #FriendshipAndCider #CozyGathering

Friends and Families, mark your calendar!! Bickford of West Des Moines is having a CIDER NIGHT! November 20th, 5-6:30pm Join us in our cozy community for a fall inspired night! See you there.

The HigherPath of Daily Purpose: How Vacuuming Can Be a Mindful Ritual In our pursuit of wellness and intentional living, we often look for big changes—new routines, major goals, or transformative habits. But sometimes, the most powerful shifts come from the smallest actions. At The HigherPath, we believe that purpose is found not just in milestones, but in the mindful moments that make up our everyday lives. Take vacuuming, for example. It’s a chore, yes—but it can also be a ritual. A moment to reset your space, clear your mind, and reconnect with your environment. When done with intention, vacuuming becomes more than cleaning—it becomes a grounding practice. This idea aligns beautifully with Montessori principles, which emphasize independence, order, and purposeful activity. In Montessori environments, even young children are encouraged to care for their surroundings—not as a task to complete, but as a way to build self-respect and connection. Adults can benefit from this same mindset. When we approach daily chores with presence and care, we cultivate a sense of ownership and pride in our space. Vacuuming can be your daily anchor. It’s a physical act that brings visible results, offering a sense of accomplishment and clarity. It’s a way to say, “I care about where I live. I care about how I feel.” And that’s the essence of daily purpose—doing small things with great intention. So the next time you vacuum, pause for a moment. Breathe. Feel the rhythm. Know that you’re not just tidying up—you’re walking your HigherPath, embracing Montessori-inspired mindfulness, and honoring the value of your day. #higherpath #Bickfordseniorliving

As we age, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet powerful tools we carry with us every day—our senses. Sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell aren’t just biological functions; they’re gateways to connection, memory, and joy. Engaging your senses regularly can improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being. Whether it’s savoring the aroma of morning coffee, listening to birdsong, or feeling the warmth of sunlight on your skin, these moments ground us in the present and enrich our lives. For older adults, sensory stimulation is especially vital. It helps maintain brain health, encourages movement, and fosters social interaction. Try incorporating sensory-rich activities into your daily routine—gardening, cooking, music, puzzles or even a walk in nature. Choosing to live with sensory awareness is choosing a higher path. It’s a way to stay vibrant, connected, and fully alive—no matter your age. #higherpath #bickfordwestdesmoines

Bickford family members! Here is a friendly reminder to get in and decorate your loved one’s door. We have trick or treaters coming in on Thursday, November 30th 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM We will be doing a second session at 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM. We are also doing a candy drive so all the residents have the opportunity to hand out candy, anything is greatly appreciated!

The Healing Power of Painting in Assisted Living: A Path to Wellness In the vibrant world of assisted living, creativity isn’t just a pastime—it’s a pathway to health and happiness. Painting, in particular, offers residents a beautiful way to stay on the “higher path”—one filled with purpose, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. Why Painting Matters Art has a unique ability to soothe the mind and uplift the spirit. For older adults, painting can: • Reduce stress and anxiety: The rhythmic motion of brushstrokes and the focus required to create art can calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. • Boost cognitive function: Engaging in creative activities stimulates the brain, helping maintain memory and mental clarity. • Encourage self-expression: Painting allows residents to share their stories, emotions, and perspectives in a way that words sometimes cannot. • Foster community: Group painting sessions build connections, spark conversations, and create shared experiences that combat loneliness. Staying on the Higher Path In assisted living, wellness is more than physical health—it’s about nurturing the whole person. Painting helps residents stay engaged, joyful, and connected to their inner selves. It’s a reminder that creativity doesn’t fade with age—it flourishes. Whether it’s a serene landscape or a puzzle piece, every brushstroke is a step toward healing, growth, and vitality. #BickfordSeniorLiving #higherpath

Monday, we had the joy of celebrating our amazing nurse, Elizabeth, who has been part of the Bickford of West Des Moines family for 17 incredible years! That’s 17 years of care, commitment, and LOVE. 17 years of making a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents and meeting their healthcare needs with compassion and excellence. Elizabeth, we are beyond grateful for you. Thank you for everything you do—every single day!