Benchmark Senior Living
Current Residents
Your opinion matters. Click here to tell us how we are doing.
Benchmark Cares — Our Stories
Benchmark Senior Living is all about people. Our compassionate caregivers work with residents who become like family to them, so it is no surprise we constantly receive positive feedback from residents and families. From the wonderful associates to the fabulous activities, they want us to know that they made the right decision and are so relieved and happy with choosing a Benchmark community for their loved one.
Feel free to browse this collection of stories that capture the successful mission of Benchmark's compassionate caregivers.
The Right Choice
Read More
I want to tell you how thankful Linda and I are for your sensitive handling of things with both us and our mother...
It does not surprise us that you are a top company to work for after
viewing the way you both treat each other as staff, and how the staff
interacts with the residents. The environment is so bright and
cheerful. In the past my sister has worked in a convalescent home, and
I have worked in group homes. As you correctly pointed out the facility
is only as good as its staff. Linda and I went to another community
after seeing you yesterday. The differences we saw with the personal
interactions along the way were striking. The things the manager
thought were important were all too often off the mark. Little, or no
questions were asked about who our parents were, or how they would be
helped. No knowledge was shared regarding Alzheimer's, other then they
found it is good to have colored plates and cups. Please share our
thanks with Judy Anne and all the staff that we met along the way.
Everyone obviously believes and takes a great pride in what they do.
Their work ethic and sincerity shined though. In our minds there is no
greater difference one can make then ensuring dignity for a fellow
human being."
-Brian Corey, Son of Residents at The Village at South Farms
-Brian Corey, Son of Residents at The Village at South Farms
A Brother's Perspective
Read More
...I will now sleep much better knowing that Janice is in the caring hands of you and the wonderful staff at your beautiful facility...
I just had the pleasure of visiting with my sister Janice at your facility this past Sunday. I must admit it was with some trepidation that we made the trip from San Diego as my experience with assisted care facilities was not an enjoyable one when I had looked at that option for our mother when she was still with us. As we arrived at The Village at South Farms and entered I was … in a word…”overwhelmed.”
Two very friendly staff members quickly realized that we must be here to see Janice and directed us to her room and said that our private luncheon was ready in The Pub whenever we want to go up. The stairs, the hallways, the dining areas, the lighting was much more like a five-star hotel than what I expected an assisted care facility to look like. Her room was light and warm and the grounds were impeccable. Not to forget, Brittney (with a smile and bubbly attitude) made sure that the meal was both delicious and that were enjoying ourselves…again, as with all your staff…with a genuine smile and caring demeanor.
This leads me to why I have written this letter beyond the obvious “Thank You” to you and your staff for a delightful experience. I am sixty-one (and remind my sister constantly that I am fourteen years younger that her) and during the course of my career in retailing I have been the CEO of billion dollar public retail companies. The biggest challenge I always had was trying to instill (by example) that the most important person a customer interacts with is the associate on the front line. It doesn’t matter what we put in our ads or on our mission statement or on the signs in the window. The only thing that matters is how that customer feels when they enter and then leave the store. I interacted with at least ten different staff members in your facility if only to ask a question or say hello. Each one was spectacular in the way they responded with “genuine interest” and always a sweet smile and pleasant attitude. I do not know you Mr. Grady…but then again I do. I have tried to accomplish in my career what you have seemed to achieve so effortlessly at your facility. One judges leaders by the people they hire and the standards they set. You and your staff have set a very high bar for any other facility to match. On behalf of my family who lives too far away to visit frequently I will now sleep much better knowing that Janice is in the caring hands of you and the wonderful staff at your beautiful facility. Please share my appreciation to all of your staff and tell them how proud they should be to be part of a team like the one you have created.
My Sincerest appreciation,
Mike Searles & Family
(Brother of resident of The Village at South Farms)
Two very friendly staff members quickly realized that we must be here to see Janice and directed us to her room and said that our private luncheon was ready in The Pub whenever we want to go up. The stairs, the hallways, the dining areas, the lighting was much more like a five-star hotel than what I expected an assisted care facility to look like. Her room was light and warm and the grounds were impeccable. Not to forget, Brittney (with a smile and bubbly attitude) made sure that the meal was both delicious and that were enjoying ourselves…again, as with all your staff…with a genuine smile and caring demeanor.
This leads me to why I have written this letter beyond the obvious “Thank You” to you and your staff for a delightful experience. I am sixty-one (and remind my sister constantly that I am fourteen years younger that her) and during the course of my career in retailing I have been the CEO of billion dollar public retail companies. The biggest challenge I always had was trying to instill (by example) that the most important person a customer interacts with is the associate on the front line. It doesn’t matter what we put in our ads or on our mission statement or on the signs in the window. The only thing that matters is how that customer feels when they enter and then leave the store. I interacted with at least ten different staff members in your facility if only to ask a question or say hello. Each one was spectacular in the way they responded with “genuine interest” and always a sweet smile and pleasant attitude. I do not know you Mr. Grady…but then again I do. I have tried to accomplish in my career what you have seemed to achieve so effortlessly at your facility. One judges leaders by the people they hire and the standards they set. You and your staff have set a very high bar for any other facility to match. On behalf of my family who lives too far away to visit frequently I will now sleep much better knowing that Janice is in the caring hands of you and the wonderful staff at your beautiful facility. Please share my appreciation to all of your staff and tell them how proud they should be to be part of a team like the one you have created.
My Sincerest appreciation,
Mike Searles & Family
(Brother of resident of The Village at South Farms)
A Grateful Daughter
Read More
...wonderful caring community at Greystone Farm and these people are responsible...
I wrote to you last year after my father's death to commend staff at
Greystone Farm at Salem for their support of my parents who had lived
there for three years. I am now in a position to write you again after the
passing of my mother on March 4.
Tracey, Carol and Linda all work at Greystone. The environment of support and caring they provided me, an only child, during the difficult time went, in my opinion, above and beyond the general responsibilities of their roles. The sense of family and welcome I felt from them made such a difference for me. Although we had a memorial service at my family's church, Tracey and Carol organized another service at Greystone for the people who could not get to the church. I am truly overwhelmed by their kindness.
Michelle, Joy and Heather are caregivers at Greystone. They worked with my mother and made her feel special and comfortable and loved. This meant so much to me since I live out of state and could not provide the daily support she received from these wonderful ladies.
You have a wonderful caring community at Greystone Farm and these people are responsible for that.
Yours Sincerely,
Cynthia Fletcher, Daughter of Greystone Farm at Salem residents
Tracey, Carol and Linda all work at Greystone. The environment of support and caring they provided me, an only child, during the difficult time went, in my opinion, above and beyond the general responsibilities of their roles. The sense of family and welcome I felt from them made such a difference for me. Although we had a memorial service at my family's church, Tracey and Carol organized another service at Greystone for the people who could not get to the church. I am truly overwhelmed by their kindness.
Michelle, Joy and Heather are caregivers at Greystone. They worked with my mother and made her feel special and comfortable and loved. This meant so much to me since I live out of state and could not provide the daily support she received from these wonderful ladies.
You have a wonderful caring community at Greystone Farm and these people are responsible for that.
Yours Sincerely,
Cynthia Fletcher, Daughter of Greystone Farm at Salem residents
Complete Confidence
Read More
...every confidence in their remarkable staff and enjoy peace-of-mind...
From our first visit to The Village at Willow Crossing, we knew we'd
found something special. We were warmly greeted, interviewed with
genuine interest, and had every question patiently answered. The
admission process and move-in were painless, and I noticed every
staff member, from the Director to the kitchen staff, was attentive and
outgoing. After just a few weeks of residence, Mom was amazed how
so many people knew her name, and exhibited a true interest in her
well being.
I am pleased with their level of communication, and receive regular phone calls updating me on my mother. This is expected, but the true test of any assisted living facility is how well they respond in time of crisis. When we experience a medical emergency, they did a brilliant job of attending to Mom's needs, and immediately contacting me to inform me, and kept me updated.
I have every confidence in their remarkable staff and enjoy peace-of-mind in knowing she is receiving excellent care. I highly recommend The Village at Willow Crossings.
Joe, Son of The Village at Willow Crossings resident
I am pleased with their level of communication, and receive regular phone calls updating me on my mother. This is expected, but the true test of any assisted living facility is how well they respond in time of crisis. When we experience a medical emergency, they did a brilliant job of attending to Mom's needs, and immediately contacting me to inform me, and kept me updated.
I have every confidence in their remarkable staff and enjoy peace-of-mind in knowing she is receiving excellent care. I highly recommend The Village at Willow Crossings.
Joe, Son of The Village at Willow Crossings resident
Thank You For Everything
Read More
...She always liked and kept busy with the many activities that were offered...
Thank you to everyone my mom came in contact with at Blenheim. Blenheim
was like a second family to her. She was safe, well cared for, and loved by
everyone on your staff . She always liked and kept busy with the many activities
that were offered. I lived in Connecticut but felt mom was in good hands and I could worry a little less knowing she was well cared for.
Thank you,
Elaine, Daughter of Blenheim-Newport Resident
Thank you,
Elaine, Daughter of Blenheim-Newport Resident
As Usual, Dad Was Right
Read More
Every member of the staff, from the maintenance crew up to the nursing staff, act in a friendly and professional manner...
I have been terribly remiss in writing and sending this letter but here it finally is.
As you know, my parents moved to the Village at South Farms in February,
2008. My dad had been living with congestive heart failure and lung cancer for a
few years at that point and though he was slowly becoming more symptomatic,
we had no clear idea of how much longer he would be able to fight it off. When
my parents moved in, my dad was under the care of hospice. They requested
that one or more family members be present during his last few weeks to help
care for him and to support my mom. My brother and sister and I took turns
and even slept there at night towards the end. He did succumb to his illness on
May 4, 2008.
The reason I am writing this letter is to express the gratitude of my family to all the employees of the Village at South Farms. I don’t think there was ever a time when any of us were not greeted in a cheerful and friendly manner. In the days just prior to my dad’s death every one there acted with great compassion and thoughtfulness, not just to my mom but to everyone in the family. It’s possible at times like that to smother a family with kind attention but your employees seemed to know just when to offer help and when to leave us to ourselves.
I want to tell you that if that experience hadn’t been enough to sing your praises, the following time certainly has been. My mom is doing very well. This is primarily due to your wonderful staff. Every single one treats her with kindness and respect. They help her deal with her own health issues and are responsive to her needs and to our concerns about her. I am always greeted with smiles and even a few hugs every time I come to visit. Every member of the staff, from the maintenance crew up to the nursing staff, act in a friendly and professional manner.
It is a well known phenomenon that if a person has a bad experience with something, they tell everyone they can about it but when the experience is a good one they don’t think to spread the word. I must say that everyone in my family spreads the word about the Village at South Farms and Benchmark in general whenever we have the chance.
I have tried to learn the names of the staff and someday I might get everyone. Right now, however, I can only say thank you from the Foley family to each of you. We so appreciate your hard work. We feel that my dad passed so peacefully in part because he knew his beloved wife would not just be safe with you but would be cared for by you. My brothers and sister and I have come to know that, as usual, dad was right.
With lasting gratitude,
Kayte Foley and the Foley family
The reason I am writing this letter is to express the gratitude of my family to all the employees of the Village at South Farms. I don’t think there was ever a time when any of us were not greeted in a cheerful and friendly manner. In the days just prior to my dad’s death every one there acted with great compassion and thoughtfulness, not just to my mom but to everyone in the family. It’s possible at times like that to smother a family with kind attention but your employees seemed to know just when to offer help and when to leave us to ourselves.
I want to tell you that if that experience hadn’t been enough to sing your praises, the following time certainly has been. My mom is doing very well. This is primarily due to your wonderful staff. Every single one treats her with kindness and respect. They help her deal with her own health issues and are responsive to her needs and to our concerns about her. I am always greeted with smiles and even a few hugs every time I come to visit. Every member of the staff, from the maintenance crew up to the nursing staff, act in a friendly and professional manner.
It is a well known phenomenon that if a person has a bad experience with something, they tell everyone they can about it but when the experience is a good one they don’t think to spread the word. I must say that everyone in my family spreads the word about the Village at South Farms and Benchmark in general whenever we have the chance.
I have tried to learn the names of the staff and someday I might get everyone. Right now, however, I can only say thank you from the Foley family to each of you. We so appreciate your hard work. We feel that my dad passed so peacefully in part because he knew his beloved wife would not just be safe with you but would be cared for by you. My brothers and sister and I have come to know that, as usual, dad was right.
With lasting gratitude,
Kayte Foley and the Foley family
A Wonderful Community
Read More
I can not say enough about the Village, except that all are wonderful...
I am writing to tell you once a gain how remarkable your staff is over at The
Village at Mariner's Point. My dad was not well and immediately Sue the
nurse informed me how his condition was. At the time, I was out of the area
and couldn't get home fast enough. Sue called me and kept me posted until I
did get to him. He was hospitalized for a few days, and is home now
recovering. Thanks to her and the rest of your staff, things are ok for him. The
welcoming home he got was wonderful by both your staff and residents. I can
not say enough about the Village, except that all are wonderful. They are such
a part of my dad's life and mine and don't know what I would do if he wasn't
there. I just recently had knee surgery and couldn't make it there like I always
did but I was able to put my head down at night knowing he was safe and in
good hands. I hope and pray that it will always be like that forever. I hope you
are proud just like I am.
-Anna Rose, Daughter of Village at Mariner's Point Resident
-Anna Rose, Daughter of Village at Mariner's Point Resident
Respect, Dignity, and Independence
Read More
...I only wish every assisted living facility could be as phenomenal as The Village...
I am writing to say Thank You to your staff for the awesome care Matthew and Robert have been receiving since moving to your facility. Matt and Bob have enjoyed their living, dining, nursing and transport experiences to the fullest. I only wish every assisted living facility could be as phenomenal as The Village. I have a very real issue with respect, dignity and independence being offered to all senior citizens….The Village offers all of that and more. Bob has been having serious health issues lately. Ellen, Gerry, Bogdan and Bruce have been phenomenal help, support and comfort for Matt during every ordeal. Ellen has been a very real comfort for me also. I’ve kept her updated on a daily/weekly basis and she’s been there every step of the way. Kerry and Lisa have also been a Godsend for Matt offering support wherever possible including offering him the new room on the first floor. If you speak with Matt I’m sure he will add other names to the list of awesome caregivers. Please extend my gratitude to each and everyone. Even though I’ve thanked most of them when talking with them, I wanted to make sure you know just what a phenomenal staff you have.
Sincerely ,
Roberta A. Bolduc
Sincerely ,
Roberta A. Bolduc
In Every Cloud, A Silver Lining
Read More
We could not have asked for better or more loving care...
To the Staff and Residents of The Village,
Dear Friends,
Always the positive thinker, our Mom liked the old adage: “In every cloud, there is a silver lining.” To her family you have been that silver lining in the cloud of her illness. We could not have asked for better or more loving care for her or for our Dad than what they found at The Village. God led them to the right place! You are a beautiful blessing to us; please know that our gratitude exceeds our ability to express it.
Debbie Hall Anderson, William K. Hall, Karen and Harry Arendt
Dear Friends,
Always the positive thinker, our Mom liked the old adage: “In every cloud, there is a silver lining.” To her family you have been that silver lining in the cloud of her illness. We could not have asked for better or more loving care for her or for our Dad than what they found at The Village. God led them to the right place! You are a beautiful blessing to us; please know that our gratitude exceeds our ability to express it.
Debbie Hall Anderson, William K. Hall, Karen and Harry Arendt
Lucky to Have Found the Atrium
Read More
...my mother was very pleased with her beautiful surroundings and the living care that your staff provided...
This note of thank-you is long overdue, but nonetheless heartfelt. I
was lucky to have looked at your facility in the summer of 2009, and
while I chose not to move my mother at that time, I was so glad to
have made contact with you. When the emergency moment came to
move my mother on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 I placed a call to
you at noon that day, and you leapt into action. We had my mother
moved into The Atrium by 3 pm on Friday, December 4th. I was so
lucky that you are willing to take her on with all of her challenges. It
was a rocky first couple of weeks, but with their “can-do” attitude,
your staff persisted, and she soon settled in. It was clear that my
mother was very pleased with her beautiful surroundings and the
living care that your staff provided. In particular, I was aware of the
kindness and gentle care that my mother received from Nurse
Jessica, and personal care assistant Joyce, and Debbie. My mother
was a gentle, classy woman in her younger years, but the last few
years of her life were not kind, as her personality, memory and ability
to communicate began to fade. I so appreciate your staff’s ability to
see past the wrinkled, cranky old woman on the outside and look
closely for the beauty that was still barley visible compared to the
woman she once was. Also of note, I was especially impressed with
the proactive care with knowledge and compassion for my mother. As
my mother continued to slip away and failed to thrive in the spring I
was lucky that you, along with the help of Hospice, were so willing to
accommodate my mother’s changing needs.
Sincerely,
Susan Biggs (daughter of resident)
Sincerely,
Susan Biggs (daughter of resident)
Stages of Dementia
Read More
Mom has entered a new chapter in her life, a chapter full of adventure, of new beginnings every day, of comfort and peace...
Stages………learning to love a stranger.
1. Denial: gently pretending that nothing is wrong: Oh Mom, you probably just forgot, That’s OK.
3. It’s all good: picking out the brilliant thoughts; underscoring the logic of this or that response; applauding heartily that which would have been pretty boring daily accomplishments before AD took over. But we live in the moment, and it’s all good.
4. Sorrow: the realization that we are losing our loved one; the inexorable march of AD as it settles more and more deeply into the caverns of our loved one’s brain; no one has died, hence we cannot grieve, but we continue to be more and more sorrowful, and feel more and more helpless in this one-sided battle against the enemy. So we continue to go back to #1, it’s OK to have forgotten, Mom, you have more important things to think about; to #2, we quickly jump into conversations lest someone, some outsider, discover that Mom isn’t thinking quite clearly – how awfully embarrassing that would be; to #3, Wow, did you hear that, Mom actually said something terribly brilliant, how great was that, let’s write that down. But then, somehow, something has to happen, and I think that is.
5. Acceptance: going to a state-wide meeting about AD; listening to cold hard medical facts; the harshness of talking about which “stage” Mom is at, as though this were some kind of test or quiz on which she is being graded – gosh, I hope she does well, I’d hate to have someone think she were stage 4, because I think she’s in pretty good shape, I only wish other people could see that. But whoops, that’s not acceptance, is it, maybe #’s 1, 2, 3 and 4 haven’t really gone away, we just put them aside temporarily, and it’s so handy to dredge them up again whenever we need a little something positive in this whole scenario. So maybe I’m not there yet, have not quite got the acceptance shtick perfected; still have to work on that, so I can go on to
6. Enjoyment without guilt: it’s easier to do this when some geographic distance is established; even a day in Montreal is a divorce from Spear Street, to say nothing about a week on the boat in France, three weeks in Normandy, a month in Florida. Is this hiding? Copping out? Running away from reality? Can’t do the same when I am in my own home; it’s so hard to just sit back and relax, knowing that just down the road Mom is not sharing my enjoyment, whatever it may be – a good book, an entertaining TV show, a nice meal with lots of good conversation about the history of wild boar hunting in Wisconsin, or the pros and cons of this or that herb or spice, or which wine would have been better to serve…Is this silly? Is this superficial? Is this totally self-centered on my part? So often, in the middle of any of these situations, I just want to pick up the phone and say Hey Mom, guess what we were just talking about; guess what I made for dinner; wish you were here to enjoy it all with us. But you can’t be, not any more; we have to go back to step 1 and step 2 and step 3 whenever we’re all together, living in the let’s pretend world of AD, where it’s all good. But you’re not really there, and that’s the saddest part of all.And now I’m just going to cry for a while. Later…
7. And now it’s later… I think I’ve finally resolved that what’s good for Mom has got to be good for me. I’ll accept whatever reality is hers and live there. But wait, that’s not great for my own life, for my marriage, for the world in which I have to function. So who is the victim here? Who is the caregiver and who the patient? And where do we go, now that we’ve established these new boundaries on this new reality? So wait again: at some point, we have to understand that our lives are comprised of chapters, each to be read/lived in its own order, digested and understood and then used as a building block for the next chapter. Mom is now living a new chapter, her very own chapter, and – and this is the hard part – I have to live my own new chapter, also my very own. It’s not getting any easier, even after having identified what I think is this new reality. But I am still the responsible adult in this situation, and it is on my shoulders that daily decisions rest. And I am getting tired. Please, let something happen that will let us get on to the next chapter for all of us.
--September 16, 2010, Mom moved in to the Arbors --
8. I am at peace. I have slept like the proverbial baby for the last several nights, knowing that Mom is in a safe place; she is cared for, she is fed and is warm, and, most of all, she is loved. I have finally come to realize that it doesn’t really matter who does the caring for, the feeding, the providing of warmth, the love. I used to think that it was all about my doing all that; and now I realize that it wasn’t MY doing all these things, it was about these things getting done. So it’s NOT all about me after all. What a revelation! So, in the final analysis, maybe Alzheimer’s is much more than a debilitating disease for those whom it strikes. It is a lesson in humility for those it leaves behind. Mom has entered a new chapter in her life, a chapter full of adventure, of new beginnings every day, of comfort and peace. And it is up to me to find my own new chapter, and to live that chapter and, when the time comes, to go on to the next one. Thanks, Mom, for the lesson.
1. Denial: gently pretending that nothing is wrong: Oh Mom, you probably just forgot, That’s OK.
- 1 a. Frustration: Don’t you remember, Mom, I told you yesterday that we were going to go out for lunch today.
- 1 b. Anger: Damn it, Mother, MAKE yourself remember.
3. It’s all good: picking out the brilliant thoughts; underscoring the logic of this or that response; applauding heartily that which would have been pretty boring daily accomplishments before AD took over. But we live in the moment, and it’s all good.
4. Sorrow: the realization that we are losing our loved one; the inexorable march of AD as it settles more and more deeply into the caverns of our loved one’s brain; no one has died, hence we cannot grieve, but we continue to be more and more sorrowful, and feel more and more helpless in this one-sided battle against the enemy. So we continue to go back to #1, it’s OK to have forgotten, Mom, you have more important things to think about; to #2, we quickly jump into conversations lest someone, some outsider, discover that Mom isn’t thinking quite clearly – how awfully embarrassing that would be; to #3, Wow, did you hear that, Mom actually said something terribly brilliant, how great was that, let’s write that down. But then, somehow, something has to happen, and I think that is.
5. Acceptance: going to a state-wide meeting about AD; listening to cold hard medical facts; the harshness of talking about which “stage” Mom is at, as though this were some kind of test or quiz on which she is being graded – gosh, I hope she does well, I’d hate to have someone think she were stage 4, because I think she’s in pretty good shape, I only wish other people could see that. But whoops, that’s not acceptance, is it, maybe #’s 1, 2, 3 and 4 haven’t really gone away, we just put them aside temporarily, and it’s so handy to dredge them up again whenever we need a little something positive in this whole scenario. So maybe I’m not there yet, have not quite got the acceptance shtick perfected; still have to work on that, so I can go on to
6. Enjoyment without guilt: it’s easier to do this when some geographic distance is established; even a day in Montreal is a divorce from Spear Street, to say nothing about a week on the boat in France, three weeks in Normandy, a month in Florida. Is this hiding? Copping out? Running away from reality? Can’t do the same when I am in my own home; it’s so hard to just sit back and relax, knowing that just down the road Mom is not sharing my enjoyment, whatever it may be – a good book, an entertaining TV show, a nice meal with lots of good conversation about the history of wild boar hunting in Wisconsin, or the pros and cons of this or that herb or spice, or which wine would have been better to serve…Is this silly? Is this superficial? Is this totally self-centered on my part? So often, in the middle of any of these situations, I just want to pick up the phone and say Hey Mom, guess what we were just talking about; guess what I made for dinner; wish you were here to enjoy it all with us. But you can’t be, not any more; we have to go back to step 1 and step 2 and step 3 whenever we’re all together, living in the let’s pretend world of AD, where it’s all good. But you’re not really there, and that’s the saddest part of all.And now I’m just going to cry for a while. Later…
7. And now it’s later… I think I’ve finally resolved that what’s good for Mom has got to be good for me. I’ll accept whatever reality is hers and live there. But wait, that’s not great for my own life, for my marriage, for the world in which I have to function. So who is the victim here? Who is the caregiver and who the patient? And where do we go, now that we’ve established these new boundaries on this new reality? So wait again: at some point, we have to understand that our lives are comprised of chapters, each to be read/lived in its own order, digested and understood and then used as a building block for the next chapter. Mom is now living a new chapter, her very own chapter, and – and this is the hard part – I have to live my own new chapter, also my very own. It’s not getting any easier, even after having identified what I think is this new reality. But I am still the responsible adult in this situation, and it is on my shoulders that daily decisions rest. And I am getting tired. Please, let something happen that will let us get on to the next chapter for all of us.
--September 16, 2010, Mom moved in to the Arbors --
8. I am at peace. I have slept like the proverbial baby for the last several nights, knowing that Mom is in a safe place; she is cared for, she is fed and is warm, and, most of all, she is loved. I have finally come to realize that it doesn’t really matter who does the caring for, the feeding, the providing of warmth, the love. I used to think that it was all about my doing all that; and now I realize that it wasn’t MY doing all these things, it was about these things getting done. So it’s NOT all about me after all. What a revelation! So, in the final analysis, maybe Alzheimer’s is much more than a debilitating disease for those whom it strikes. It is a lesson in humility for those it leaves behind. Mom has entered a new chapter in her life, a chapter full of adventure, of new beginnings every day, of comfort and peace. And it is up to me to find my own new chapter, and to live that chapter and, when the time comes, to go on to the next one. Thanks, Mom, for the lesson.
EVERYTHING is Right
Read More
...esthetics, facilities, and programs are A+ as are the employees and their obvious dedication to doing an outstanding job...
My 94 year old father has recently moved into your Warwick, RI facility and has been
moved from assisted living to the Harbor program.
Your CEO should know that in my opinion, all of the employees there from the General Manager on down are outstanding at what they do. My friends and relatives have asked me my opinion of Greenwich Farms and I have told them that "Everything" is right and that every employee at Greenwich Farms has done more than I expected.
You should be commended - esthetics, facilities, and programs are A+ as are the employees and their obvious dedication to doing an outstanding job. And the cost is competitive with other like-type assisted living facilities in RI, although there is valueadd at Greenwich Farms which is so obviously above and beyond your competition - the residents actually echo this message often.
Congratulations for doing what you do so well and providing your service with such true compassion.
Regards,
Bill Berman, son of Greenwich Farms at Warwick Resident
Your CEO should know that in my opinion, all of the employees there from the General Manager on down are outstanding at what they do. My friends and relatives have asked me my opinion of Greenwich Farms and I have told them that "Everything" is right and that every employee at Greenwich Farms has done more than I expected.
You should be commended - esthetics, facilities, and programs are A+ as are the employees and their obvious dedication to doing an outstanding job. And the cost is competitive with other like-type assisted living facilities in RI, although there is valueadd at Greenwich Farms which is so obviously above and beyond your competition - the residents actually echo this message often.
Congratulations for doing what you do so well and providing your service with such true compassion.
Regards,
Bill Berman, son of Greenwich Farms at Warwick Resident
Golden Years
Read More
...the staff performed their duties with genuine regard for the residents...
I would like to bring to your attention the care my family recently
received when we brought my aunt, Anna, to Ridgefield Crossings in
Ridgefield, Connecticut.
My aunt lived at home with a full time aide since she was 90 years old. A couple of months ago the family decided to "move" her to an Assisted Living facility. We reviewed a couple of communities including Ridgefield Crossings in Ridgefield, CT. When we came for our first tour we were greeted warmly and professionally. The staff we met, led by Tami, toured with us the facility and provided us with information which immediately put our mind at ease. It became clear that not only was the place meticulously kept but the staff performed their duties with genuine regard for the residents and a belief in their mission. Our decision was made easy and within a few weeks we transferred my aunt to Ridgefield Crossings.
During the days my aunt was a resident at Ridgefield Crossings she enjoyed exceptional care and it was obvious she felt the love bestowed on her by the staff. Unfortunately less than a week after the move my aunt passed away. The staff, again led by Tami, was there to soften the sadness. They helped us with the arrangements and did not pressure us to clear my aunt's belongings. Their sorrow over her death was genuine even though she was only there for a short period of time.
In summary, the dedication of your staff and the support they provided us made it very clear that you have selected the right people to that facility. Families can feel very comfortable and secure when they select Ridgefield Crossings as the community where their loved ones will spend their "Golden years".
Sincerely,
Laurie Kilchevsky, MSW
My aunt lived at home with a full time aide since she was 90 years old. A couple of months ago the family decided to "move" her to an Assisted Living facility. We reviewed a couple of communities including Ridgefield Crossings in Ridgefield, CT. When we came for our first tour we were greeted warmly and professionally. The staff we met, led by Tami, toured with us the facility and provided us with information which immediately put our mind at ease. It became clear that not only was the place meticulously kept but the staff performed their duties with genuine regard for the residents and a belief in their mission. Our decision was made easy and within a few weeks we transferred my aunt to Ridgefield Crossings.
During the days my aunt was a resident at Ridgefield Crossings she enjoyed exceptional care and it was obvious she felt the love bestowed on her by the staff. Unfortunately less than a week after the move my aunt passed away. The staff, again led by Tami, was there to soften the sadness. They helped us with the arrangements and did not pressure us to clear my aunt's belongings. Their sorrow over her death was genuine even though she was only there for a short period of time.
In summary, the dedication of your staff and the support they provided us made it very clear that you have selected the right people to that facility. Families can feel very comfortable and secure when they select Ridgefield Crossings as the community where their loved ones will spend their "Golden years".
Sincerely,
Laurie Kilchevsky, MSW
Recognizing Excellence
Read More
I feel certain that my mother is getting everything she needs...
This letter is long overdue, is written in recognition of Celina Watson. Celina is
an asset to the Benchmark Community whose work and efforts, kindness and
patience, are exemplary and deserving of praise.
I first met Celina when Benchmark took over Ridgefield Crossings. My mother, Roberta, had been a resident in the facility since 2002, and thus had lived there through the leadership of three different management companies. Celina introduced herself to me at the welcoming event, and quickly made me feel assured my mom was now in good hands. Since that day, Celina has continually extended herself to our family, making my mother’s residence at Ridgefield Crossings as comfortable and problem-free as possible. Her door is always open, and she is concerned and receptive should any small issue arise. Her kindness, compassion and understanding became even more evident when my mother decided that she would like to live with my family and me, to spend more time with us, particularly her nine-year-old granddaughter, her only grandchild.
My mother, who has fairly advanced Multiple-Sclerosis, informed me that she was primarily independent, and would require little care once in my house. We prepared for nearly a year for her to move in, and once we informed Celina of the move, she never once made us feel awkward or uncomfortable about my mom leaving; she only let us know that mom would be missed and would be welcomed back should the new living arrangements not work out as planned. As soon as my mom moved in with us, it became abundantly clear that she had been mistaken; that she required a great deal of assistance in her daily living. The reason for her thinking she didn’t need much help was, I believe, that the aid she had been receiving from the Ridgefield Crossings staff had become practically invisible to her; that the staff had assisted her with such grace and ease that she mistakenly thought she wasn’t requiring much help. When she realized that she needed much more than my husband and I could provide, even with the help of aides at our home, Celina was there for us. She invited my mom to attend the holiday party, so that she was able to reconnect with her friends at Ridgefield Crossings. She informed us as soon as an apartment became available, and she and her staff made the transition back to Ridgefield Crossings as seamless as possible for my mom and us.
Simply knowing that Celina is ultimately responsible for my mother’s care is extremely reassuring to me. It is a somewhat helpless feeling having to rely on others for the care of a parent, but because of Celina I feel certain that my mother is getting everything she needs. I feel that Celina taking over as director of Ridgefield Crossings was a kind gift to our family; one that I need to be sure is recognized and appreciated for her efforts, which go above and beyond what I originally expected from an assisted living arrangement for my mother. She is an invaluable asset to your company and should be recognized as such.
Thank you so much,
Elizabeth Massa (daughter of resident)
I first met Celina when Benchmark took over Ridgefield Crossings. My mother, Roberta, had been a resident in the facility since 2002, and thus had lived there through the leadership of three different management companies. Celina introduced herself to me at the welcoming event, and quickly made me feel assured my mom was now in good hands. Since that day, Celina has continually extended herself to our family, making my mother’s residence at Ridgefield Crossings as comfortable and problem-free as possible. Her door is always open, and she is concerned and receptive should any small issue arise. Her kindness, compassion and understanding became even more evident when my mother decided that she would like to live with my family and me, to spend more time with us, particularly her nine-year-old granddaughter, her only grandchild.
My mother, who has fairly advanced Multiple-Sclerosis, informed me that she was primarily independent, and would require little care once in my house. We prepared for nearly a year for her to move in, and once we informed Celina of the move, she never once made us feel awkward or uncomfortable about my mom leaving; she only let us know that mom would be missed and would be welcomed back should the new living arrangements not work out as planned. As soon as my mom moved in with us, it became abundantly clear that she had been mistaken; that she required a great deal of assistance in her daily living. The reason for her thinking she didn’t need much help was, I believe, that the aid she had been receiving from the Ridgefield Crossings staff had become practically invisible to her; that the staff had assisted her with such grace and ease that she mistakenly thought she wasn’t requiring much help. When she realized that she needed much more than my husband and I could provide, even with the help of aides at our home, Celina was there for us. She invited my mom to attend the holiday party, so that she was able to reconnect with her friends at Ridgefield Crossings. She informed us as soon as an apartment became available, and she and her staff made the transition back to Ridgefield Crossings as seamless as possible for my mom and us.
Simply knowing that Celina is ultimately responsible for my mother’s care is extremely reassuring to me. It is a somewhat helpless feeling having to rely on others for the care of a parent, but because of Celina I feel certain that my mother is getting everything she needs. I feel that Celina taking over as director of Ridgefield Crossings was a kind gift to our family; one that I need to be sure is recognized and appreciated for her efforts, which go above and beyond what I originally expected from an assisted living arrangement for my mother. She is an invaluable asset to your company and should be recognized as such.
Thank you so much,
Elizabeth Massa (daughter of resident)
An Extended Family
Read More
...always had a kind hello and warm smile...
My mother, Thelma (Mimi), was a resident in Harbor at Haverhill
Crossings. She lived there from the day it opened in 2008 until she died
this May. I would like to share our experience and thank everyone.
Our experience was incredible and although there were bumps along the way we all grew from them. The leadership provided by Adam and later by Sam was commendable. They both instill kindness in their team. Fran and Melanie provided incredible support by listening, helping, and learning. The entire Wellness Team, both Barbara’s, Lisa, Pat and Kerry, was my daily support and were there for us every time we needed them. The administrative staff, Denise and Kristin, always had a kind hello and warm smile. Chris provided a wonderful gift of music and talking French to Mimi which she just loved. And then there are “Mimi’s Angels”- Nicole, Danielle, Sarah, Vanessa, Angleo, Lucy, Yolanda, Jamie, Jennifer, Piera, Cheryl, Kevin, Mary, Rachel, Karen, Doreen “our personal comic”, Jennifer, Magan, Kayla, Maria, Jane, Maria, and Fritz – who we thank for the light touch, the huge smiles, and making Mimi part of their family. She adopted so many of them that we lost count of all her children.
I can’t say enough about the entire team. As you can imagine after two years they became our family; the Harbor her home. She lived in Harbor and died in Harbor which we are very thankful. The Harbor Team and Beacon Hospice made it possible and provided us love and support during that time. In her final days, when everyone wanted to say goodbye and give mom one last kiss, they were able to do it. Everyone shared in her living and in her death.
Sincerely,
Karen Natario, daughter
Our experience was incredible and although there were bumps along the way we all grew from them. The leadership provided by Adam and later by Sam was commendable. They both instill kindness in their team. Fran and Melanie provided incredible support by listening, helping, and learning. The entire Wellness Team, both Barbara’s, Lisa, Pat and Kerry, was my daily support and were there for us every time we needed them. The administrative staff, Denise and Kristin, always had a kind hello and warm smile. Chris provided a wonderful gift of music and talking French to Mimi which she just loved. And then there are “Mimi’s Angels”- Nicole, Danielle, Sarah, Vanessa, Angleo, Lucy, Yolanda, Jamie, Jennifer, Piera, Cheryl, Kevin, Mary, Rachel, Karen, Doreen “our personal comic”, Jennifer, Magan, Kayla, Maria, Jane, Maria, and Fritz – who we thank for the light touch, the huge smiles, and making Mimi part of their family. She adopted so many of them that we lost count of all her children.
I can’t say enough about the entire team. As you can imagine after two years they became our family; the Harbor her home. She lived in Harbor and died in Harbor which we are very thankful. The Harbor Team and Beacon Hospice made it possible and provided us love and support during that time. In her final days, when everyone wanted to say goodbye and give mom one last kiss, they were able to do it. Everyone shared in her living and in her death.
Sincerely,
Karen Natario, daughter
Getting Mom Back
Read More
...they gave us almost 6 years of having our mother “back” at a level some time well before she moved there...
I am writing this to let you know what an outstanding facility you have in Crescent Point
at Niantic, CT. My three siblings and I cannot thank the staff there enough. Our mother,
Rita, lived there for almost 6 years before she passed away on December 19, 2009.
From the very beginning, we knew we had made the right choice for our Mom. Kathy, Deb, and the entire staff; maintenance, housekeeping, dietary, receptionists, aides, Paul the driver, the very special hairdresser Kathy, nurses and various administrators. They all always made us feel welcome and were so attentive to Mom. It was like having family around. Truly, they gave us almost 6 years of having our mother “back” at a level some time well before she moved there. There is no better way the money from the sale of her home could have been used.
Please know how very grateful we are for the care and love shown to our Mom and all of us.
Sincerely,
Carol A. Flanagan-Dupuis
From the very beginning, we knew we had made the right choice for our Mom. Kathy, Deb, and the entire staff; maintenance, housekeeping, dietary, receptionists, aides, Paul the driver, the very special hairdresser Kathy, nurses and various administrators. They all always made us feel welcome and were so attentive to Mom. It was like having family around. Truly, they gave us almost 6 years of having our mother “back” at a level some time well before she moved there. There is no better way the money from the sale of her home could have been used.
Please know how very grateful we are for the care and love shown to our Mom and all of us.
Sincerely,
Carol A. Flanagan-Dupuis
The Perfect Place
Read More
...always a smiling face and a great source of information...
I have had the pleasure of meeting many of the staff in Meriden at Kensington
Place for the past month because we recently moved a loved one in. I must say, I
am very impressed with the staff and the facility and am sorry I didn't look into
the place further when my parents were alive.
A little over a month ago, I needed to help a 90-yr-old former marine find better housing. He had recently broken his hip and due to prostate problems, has a permanent catheter. He is single and has no family in this area except a sister, age 87. He could no longer live alone in his second floor apartment and a nursing home was not the best place for his dignity or quality of life. So I went to Kensington to inquire about the place and was welcomed with open arms and all the information I required to get this gentleman into an apartment.
He moved in just after the 4th of July. He says it's a nice hotel, then he looks around and recognizes his belongings and realizes that it's now his home. The staff treat him with the respect and dignity a former WWII veteran deserves. This is very different from the nursing home/rehab center he had been at for 3 months where they treated him as an invalid and talked to him as if he were a child. Okay, so his bodily functions don't always work properly, but when there's an accident, your staff is there to help clean things up without him feeling overly embarrassed - I know this because he's mentioned how he's a bit embarrassed, but how nice they are about it. I am not a care-giver and don't have the skills to help with personal things - he's sort of an uncle to me and there are things I'd rather not do for personal care. But your staff is right there when needed. I don't have to keep checking on him like I did at the rehab center. I know he's in good hands. I do stop by often, but it's usually to work on paperwork to complete the VA Aid and Assistance forms or to chat a bit. He's an amazing story teller and because he's now in your facility, friends can visit easier than when he was home. He has more company now than if he had gone back to his apartment.
Annette has been extremely understanding, kind and patient and has sat with me to explain his care plan. Randi is always a smiling face and a great source of information - she just oozes with love of her job. Suzanne is always available if I have a question - being behind the reception desk, she gives true meaning to the phrase "open door policy" and should be commended for always having time to answer questions. I liked the way Sue handled the paperwork/contract. It was a long session, but she ensured I understood everything I was signing and I felt comfortable with all the documents.
Magda, Denise, Linda and Krista are aides that I've noticed work very well with my "uncle" and other residents and truly care about their job. Not that the other aides don't, but these are the ones I've seen the most during the day. My brother and his wife visit in the evening and have nothing but praise for the aides who work the evening shift. I also appreciate the 3rd shift crew - when my "uncle" headed for the ER in the middle of the night, I got a call promptly with all the pertinent info I needed to meet him at the ER. I couldn't have asked for a better middle-of-the-night response. I know all of the aides are great because my "uncle" doesn't complain about any of them like he did at the rehab center. There were a few at the rehab place that he told to stay out of his room. He's had nothing bad to say about anyone who has cared for him since arriving at Kensington. Plus he loves his wrist button - he says he just presses it when he needs something and someone shows up. At the rehab center, he complained that he pressed his button and no one ever came.
The entire RN staff should have gold stars given to them for all the times I've stood in their office doorway and they stopped what they were doing to answer my questions.
The receptionists always answer the phone - what a change from the rehab center where it either rang off the hook or a machine picked up. Your reception crew is pleasant and if they don't know an answer, they point me to the right person.
The maintenance crew is unbelievable. They keep the place running, looking fantastic and are very responsive when we've asked for something to be repaired or for something large to be hung on a wall. The housekeeping staff do their jobs very well.
The dining staff is to be commended on the quality of the food and the way they obviously care about the residents they serve.
I know I'm forgetting someone, but there are so many wonderful people to remember all their names and all the things they have done for my "uncle" - although I did try to do so. I hope no one is offended that I can't remember every person individually because I appreciate each and every one of them - including those I haven't met.
It's wonderful to walk through halls and never hear an employee complain about their job. Even when you walk by the break area outside, you don't hear any moaning or groaning. How nice to have placed a loved one in an environment where everyone appears to really like their job and truly care about the residents.
I could go on, but then you'd think I was laying it on a bit too thick. What I do want you to know is that The Village at Kensington Place, in my personal opinion, kicks all the other assisted living facilities' butts.
Thanks for listening.
From a satisfied niece.
A little over a month ago, I needed to help a 90-yr-old former marine find better housing. He had recently broken his hip and due to prostate problems, has a permanent catheter. He is single and has no family in this area except a sister, age 87. He could no longer live alone in his second floor apartment and a nursing home was not the best place for his dignity or quality of life. So I went to Kensington to inquire about the place and was welcomed with open arms and all the information I required to get this gentleman into an apartment.
He moved in just after the 4th of July. He says it's a nice hotel, then he looks around and recognizes his belongings and realizes that it's now his home. The staff treat him with the respect and dignity a former WWII veteran deserves. This is very different from the nursing home/rehab center he had been at for 3 months where they treated him as an invalid and talked to him as if he were a child. Okay, so his bodily functions don't always work properly, but when there's an accident, your staff is there to help clean things up without him feeling overly embarrassed - I know this because he's mentioned how he's a bit embarrassed, but how nice they are about it. I am not a care-giver and don't have the skills to help with personal things - he's sort of an uncle to me and there are things I'd rather not do for personal care. But your staff is right there when needed. I don't have to keep checking on him like I did at the rehab center. I know he's in good hands. I do stop by often, but it's usually to work on paperwork to complete the VA Aid and Assistance forms or to chat a bit. He's an amazing story teller and because he's now in your facility, friends can visit easier than when he was home. He has more company now than if he had gone back to his apartment.
Annette has been extremely understanding, kind and patient and has sat with me to explain his care plan. Randi is always a smiling face and a great source of information - she just oozes with love of her job. Suzanne is always available if I have a question - being behind the reception desk, she gives true meaning to the phrase "open door policy" and should be commended for always having time to answer questions. I liked the way Sue handled the paperwork/contract. It was a long session, but she ensured I understood everything I was signing and I felt comfortable with all the documents.
Magda, Denise, Linda and Krista are aides that I've noticed work very well with my "uncle" and other residents and truly care about their job. Not that the other aides don't, but these are the ones I've seen the most during the day. My brother and his wife visit in the evening and have nothing but praise for the aides who work the evening shift. I also appreciate the 3rd shift crew - when my "uncle" headed for the ER in the middle of the night, I got a call promptly with all the pertinent info I needed to meet him at the ER. I couldn't have asked for a better middle-of-the-night response. I know all of the aides are great because my "uncle" doesn't complain about any of them like he did at the rehab center. There were a few at the rehab place that he told to stay out of his room. He's had nothing bad to say about anyone who has cared for him since arriving at Kensington. Plus he loves his wrist button - he says he just presses it when he needs something and someone shows up. At the rehab center, he complained that he pressed his button and no one ever came.
The entire RN staff should have gold stars given to them for all the times I've stood in their office doorway and they stopped what they were doing to answer my questions.
The receptionists always answer the phone - what a change from the rehab center where it either rang off the hook or a machine picked up. Your reception crew is pleasant and if they don't know an answer, they point me to the right person.
The maintenance crew is unbelievable. They keep the place running, looking fantastic and are very responsive when we've asked for something to be repaired or for something large to be hung on a wall. The housekeeping staff do their jobs very well.
The dining staff is to be commended on the quality of the food and the way they obviously care about the residents they serve.
I know I'm forgetting someone, but there are so many wonderful people to remember all their names and all the things they have done for my "uncle" - although I did try to do so. I hope no one is offended that I can't remember every person individually because I appreciate each and every one of them - including those I haven't met.
It's wonderful to walk through halls and never hear an employee complain about their job. Even when you walk by the break area outside, you don't hear any moaning or groaning. How nice to have placed a loved one in an environment where everyone appears to really like their job and truly care about the residents.
I could go on, but then you'd think I was laying it on a bit too thick. What I do want you to know is that The Village at Kensington Place, in my personal opinion, kicks all the other assisted living facilities' butts.
Thanks for listening.
From a satisfied niece.
Winners Live at Haverhill Crossing (a poem by residents)
Read More
Let us tell you – Haverhill Crossings is the place for you. Why? Because there are so many things to do!...
Winners Live at Haverhill Crossings
By Residents of Haverhill Crossings:
Carol O’Donnell, Ruth Bowlby and Isabella Clay
It’s a wonderful place under the sun,
where a senior can live and have some fun.
So welcome to all – We love to greet guests.
If contentment and loving care is your quest.
Meeting our director who will introduce you to our nest.
You’ll know and spot Sam – he’s taller than the rest.
Living here has opportunities that never ever cease.
We do as much or as little as we please.
There’s exercise and cooking with our Sue.
There’s chorus, Yoga and Poker too.
There’s bowling, knitting and piano with Chris
And while he is playing you’re in total bliss.
There’s Jeopardy, Trivia and Narrow Down Words
And extra time for the Bingo Birds.
The patio with umbrellas, blooming flowers and trees
is for cook-outs and concerts with a pleasant breeze.
The library sends Penny with our favorite book.
She sites with us in our own little nook.
If you like to draw – it’s Art class for you.
Always an interesting subject – fresh and new.
Taught by a talented artist, also named Sue.
Make a date and take a walk around out lovely grounds.
The beauty of the atmosphere will turn frowns upside down.
Come enjoy your meal in our charming dining room,
you’ll come back with friends, very, very soon.
Come, chat with our residents and they will give you proof,
that they are very happy living under one roof.
By Residents of Haverhill Crossings:
Carol O’Donnell, Ruth Bowlby and Isabella Clay
It’s a wonderful place under the sun,
where a senior can live and have some fun.
So welcome to all – We love to greet guests.
If contentment and loving care is your quest.
Meeting our director who will introduce you to our nest.
You’ll know and spot Sam – he’s taller than the rest.
Living here has opportunities that never ever cease.
We do as much or as little as we please.
There’s exercise and cooking with our Sue.
There’s chorus, Yoga and Poker too.
There’s bowling, knitting and piano with Chris
And while he is playing you’re in total bliss.
There’s Jeopardy, Trivia and Narrow Down Words
And extra time for the Bingo Birds.
The patio with umbrellas, blooming flowers and trees
is for cook-outs and concerts with a pleasant breeze.
The library sends Penny with our favorite book.
She sites with us in our own little nook.
If you like to draw – it’s Art class for you.
Always an interesting subject – fresh and new.
Taught by a talented artist, also named Sue.
Make a date and take a walk around out lovely grounds.
The beauty of the atmosphere will turn frowns upside down.
Come enjoy your meal in our charming dining room,
you’ll come back with friends, very, very soon.
Come, chat with our residents and they will give you proof,
that they are very happy living under one roof.
A Difficult Time Made Easier
Read More
Her manner and tone were exceptional and she has called me on more than one occasion giving the status of my mother...
Recently my 99 year old Mother, Yvonne , became a resident at your
Quincy facility. From the initial contact with Jodi and tour, I realized
this was a professional and dedicated organization. Jodi was thorough and
concerned about my mom and our family and was not the typical
salesperson that needed an answer immediately.
Once settled, Janice, the Resident Care Director introduced herself and once again another professional dedicate to the geriatric residents and their families. Her manner and tone were exceptional and she has called me on more than one occasion giving the status of my mother.
Also after the admittance, Susan, the Harbor Program Director, introduced herself and we chatted. Yes, another professional that cares.
Lastly, Marie, her primary caregiver is extremely attentive to my mom and is pleasant and relates well to the patients. I am a retired president of a financial institution and realize the importance of people skills and the above individuals possess those qualities. Hmmm, if they lived on the north shore I know of certain institutions that would welcome them immediately.
Thank you and your staff for an easy transition during this difficult time.
Very truly yours,
Peter L. DiBenedetto (son of resident)
Once settled, Janice, the Resident Care Director introduced herself and once again another professional dedicate to the geriatric residents and their families. Her manner and tone were exceptional and she has called me on more than one occasion giving the status of my mother.
Also after the admittance, Susan, the Harbor Program Director, introduced herself and we chatted. Yes, another professional that cares.
Lastly, Marie, her primary caregiver is extremely attentive to my mom and is pleasant and relates well to the patients. I am a retired president of a financial institution and realize the importance of people skills and the above individuals possess those qualities. Hmmm, if they lived on the north shore I know of certain institutions that would welcome them immediately.
Thank you and your staff for an easy transition during this difficult time.
Very truly yours,
Peter L. DiBenedetto (son of resident)
What a Great Place to Live
Read More
...thoroughly enjoying every minute of living among our residents and staff...
Boy, what a great place this is in which to live!! We have the greatest
Activities Director, in Jane. She is a prolific in the things she has for us to
do, to enrich our daily lives here.
Last evening, our joyful, helpful, caring bus driver, Ed, drove our bus, loaded with folks going to Sandy’s on the beach, here in Plymouth, for a 5 PM supper…we all had ordered our meal ahead of time, and paid Jane in advance. Even the daytime wait-staff joined in on our fun, and met us there, as did our Executive Director, Jeanne. So did Jane’s Assistant, Laura with her usual, willing help. Jane’s handsome husband, John, was also there to lend a hand. He is also our landscaper here, and does one bang-up job keeping our grounds spiffy!
When we had all finished eating, Jane announced that we were all going to be treated on the way home to an ice cream cone (on the house), from Friendly’s. Now, you can’t begin to believe what a surprise treat THAT was!!!
Jane also has many of us rehearsing to put on the play “The Wizard of Oz” next month. We enjoy many laughs during our weekly rehearsals. Of course we oldsters can’t remember lines, so we sit and read from our scripts….and Collette, a spark-plug member of our daytime wait-staff is volunteering to make costumes for us to wear and we will put the play on in our lovely dining room in mid September.
This is just another of my ‘atta-boys” Tom….I am a resident here for seven years now and am thoroughly enjoying every minute of living among our residents and staff.
As you know, it also gives me a great “kick” to be introduced to folks coming in for a “tour.” I enjoy giving them my P.R. spiel…and add that I’m not being paid for what I say either. It truly is a happy, safe, warm home for many of us and I ask Gods blessing, not only on everyone here, staff and residents alike, but on you, too, Tom, who began this wonderful organization. May He prosper it for years to come!
Enthusiastically,
Trudy Nelson (resident of Plymouth Crossings)
Last evening, our joyful, helpful, caring bus driver, Ed, drove our bus, loaded with folks going to Sandy’s on the beach, here in Plymouth, for a 5 PM supper…we all had ordered our meal ahead of time, and paid Jane in advance. Even the daytime wait-staff joined in on our fun, and met us there, as did our Executive Director, Jeanne. So did Jane’s Assistant, Laura with her usual, willing help. Jane’s handsome husband, John, was also there to lend a hand. He is also our landscaper here, and does one bang-up job keeping our grounds spiffy!
When we had all finished eating, Jane announced that we were all going to be treated on the way home to an ice cream cone (on the house), from Friendly’s. Now, you can’t begin to believe what a surprise treat THAT was!!!
Jane also has many of us rehearsing to put on the play “The Wizard of Oz” next month. We enjoy many laughs during our weekly rehearsals. Of course we oldsters can’t remember lines, so we sit and read from our scripts….and Collette, a spark-plug member of our daytime wait-staff is volunteering to make costumes for us to wear and we will put the play on in our lovely dining room in mid September.
This is just another of my ‘atta-boys” Tom….I am a resident here for seven years now and am thoroughly enjoying every minute of living among our residents and staff.
As you know, it also gives me a great “kick” to be introduced to folks coming in for a “tour.” I enjoy giving them my P.R. spiel…and add that I’m not being paid for what I say either. It truly is a happy, safe, warm home for many of us and I ask Gods blessing, not only on everyone here, staff and residents alike, but on you, too, Tom, who began this wonderful organization. May He prosper it for years to come!
Enthusiastically,
Trudy Nelson (resident of Plymouth Crossings)
Security and Confidence
Read More
...the quality of care she has received at your facility has dramatically changed her life...
I write to acknowledge the care my mother has received at Orchard Valley
at Wilbraham, Massachusetts. My family and I felt compelled to draft a
letter of recommendation on behalf of Ms. Barrett. I cannot emphasize
enough the enormous amount of security and confidence we have in my
mother’s care at Orchard Valley. My mother was at a different facility
approximately a year ago and the quality of care she has received at your
facility has dramatically changed her life with Ms. Barrett playing
extremely important part of the health care team at Orchard Valley. My
entire family is so appreciative of Ms. Barrett’s “hands on” approach and
her ability to compassionately deal with a variety of problems.
Another important characteristic that Ms. Barrett possesses is her candor. It is refreshing to deal with an individual who has the courage to speak her mind coupled with the intelligence to temper her opinion. She consistently deals with situations in a straightforward and honest manner. She possesses a great ability to quickly problem solve and share her analysis with colleagues. I say without hesitation that my mother’s life has dramatically improved because of Ms. Barrett’s performance. She is a credit to your facility.
Written by the son of a resident at Orchard Valley at Wilbraham
Another important characteristic that Ms. Barrett possesses is her candor. It is refreshing to deal with an individual who has the courage to speak her mind coupled with the intelligence to temper her opinion. She consistently deals with situations in a straightforward and honest manner. She possesses a great ability to quickly problem solve and share her analysis with colleagues. I say without hesitation that my mother’s life has dramatically improved because of Ms. Barrett’s performance. She is a credit to your facility.
Written by the son of a resident at Orchard Valley at Wilbraham
Our Second Family
Read More
I cannot tell you how much I appreciated having these people in my mom's life...
Dear Mitch,
I'd like to share the story of my mother, Julia’s life at the Village of Willow Crossings.
In June 2000 my mom moved to the Village at Willow Crossings from Philadelphia. My mom was 88 years old and had lived in her Philadelphia home for 50 years. My dad had died six years earlier and the time had come when she decided she did not want to live alone and wanted to be closer to me and my family. The Village was my mother's home until her death, at 98, in November 2010.
I can say that the Village at Willow Crossings was a wonderful place for my mother to spend her last years. My mom had lived in Philadelphia all of her life, so coming to Massachusetts with unfamiliar accents and new sports teams was not easy. The staff at the Village were so welcoming and inclusive, it wasn't long before she felt right at home with her new surroundings (and became a Red Sox fan!).
At 88 my mom had the energy of someone much younger. She eagerly took advantage of all the Village had to offer - from the entertainment to the activities and outings. I don't think in ten years my mom missed more than a dozen Bingo games. In fact, the lure of Bingo helped her recover from several illnesses.
When Benchmark took over management of the Village, we were worried about the quality of the services and if the Village community would change. I can say that in the last few years the quality of the care and services at the Village has gotten better. As my mom became frailer and needed more care the Village was able to provide for all her needs.
As an only child with no family in Massachusetts, I felt the staff at the Village become our second family. The Village staff from the front desk to the nursing staff to the housekeeping, maintenance, activities, dining room were always caring and helpful to my mom. I cannot tell you how much I appreciated having these people in my mom's life.
Nursing - Karen - her caring and compassion when my mother died was over and above anything I expected. Ann - her kindness and caring helped me and my mother so many times, especially in the last year which was a difficult one for me. Pam - my mom enjoyed their talks about sewing, Kris whose Italian my mom said was excellent, Peggy -my mom was always glad to see her, she felt well cared for with her, Lucia- she made my mom laugh and watch Dancing with the Stars, Karen , Lucille, Mary, Andrea, Carol, Stacey, Kayla - all my mom counted as her friends.
Housekeeping - Judy - who always gave my mom a hug. I am not sure of the names of the other housekeeping people who were always so helpful to my mom.
Maintenance - Dave, Bill and Paul who fixed my mom's glasses and her remote control so many times.
Reception - Pamela, Jane, Charlotte, Sharyn - nothing was too much for them to do to help my mom and me with any problem we might have had.
Activities - Jill - my mom felt a special affection for Jill since she remembers helping Jill on her first day working at the Village. Maryellen, Monique - thank you for your kindness to my mom.
Dining - Tricia - who always treated my mom's concerns with respect and kindness.
Administration - Linsley, Tricia and you, Mitch, were always attentive to my mom's concerns.
I have probably missed someone who cared for my mom and I apologize for that but you all have my sincere thanks for your professionalism and the quality of care you gave.
Elaine Price
I'd like to share the story of my mother, Julia’s life at the Village of Willow Crossings.
In June 2000 my mom moved to the Village at Willow Crossings from Philadelphia. My mom was 88 years old and had lived in her Philadelphia home for 50 years. My dad had died six years earlier and the time had come when she decided she did not want to live alone and wanted to be closer to me and my family. The Village was my mother's home until her death, at 98, in November 2010.
I can say that the Village at Willow Crossings was a wonderful place for my mother to spend her last years. My mom had lived in Philadelphia all of her life, so coming to Massachusetts with unfamiliar accents and new sports teams was not easy. The staff at the Village were so welcoming and inclusive, it wasn't long before she felt right at home with her new surroundings (and became a Red Sox fan!).
At 88 my mom had the energy of someone much younger. She eagerly took advantage of all the Village had to offer - from the entertainment to the activities and outings. I don't think in ten years my mom missed more than a dozen Bingo games. In fact, the lure of Bingo helped her recover from several illnesses.
When Benchmark took over management of the Village, we were worried about the quality of the services and if the Village community would change. I can say that in the last few years the quality of the care and services at the Village has gotten better. As my mom became frailer and needed more care the Village was able to provide for all her needs.
As an only child with no family in Massachusetts, I felt the staff at the Village become our second family. The Village staff from the front desk to the nursing staff to the housekeeping, maintenance, activities, dining room were always caring and helpful to my mom. I cannot tell you how much I appreciated having these people in my mom's life.
Nursing - Karen - her caring and compassion when my mother died was over and above anything I expected. Ann - her kindness and caring helped me and my mother so many times, especially in the last year which was a difficult one for me. Pam - my mom enjoyed their talks about sewing, Kris whose Italian my mom said was excellent, Peggy -my mom was always glad to see her, she felt well cared for with her, Lucia- she made my mom laugh and watch Dancing with the Stars, Karen , Lucille, Mary, Andrea, Carol, Stacey, Kayla - all my mom counted as her friends.
Housekeeping - Judy - who always gave my mom a hug. I am not sure of the names of the other housekeeping people who were always so helpful to my mom.
Maintenance - Dave, Bill and Paul who fixed my mom's glasses and her remote control so many times.
Reception - Pamela, Jane, Charlotte, Sharyn - nothing was too much for them to do to help my mom and me with any problem we might have had.
Activities - Jill - my mom felt a special affection for Jill since she remembers helping Jill on her first day working at the Village. Maryellen, Monique - thank you for your kindness to my mom.
Dining - Tricia - who always treated my mom's concerns with respect and kindness.
Administration - Linsley, Tricia and you, Mitch, were always attentive to my mom's concerns.
I have probably missed someone who cared for my mom and I apologize for that but you all have my sincere thanks for your professionalism and the quality of care you gave.
Elaine Price