Supportive Staff in Home

Welcome to My Dad's Dementia Journey

The staff at my dad’s facility are wonderful and provide excellent elderly facility support. Over the years, he has endeared himself to the staff, and they are protective of him, especially after he tested their patience and helped him through many challenges.

If I call the facility (there have been times he doesn’t answer the phone for hours or even a full day) and ask them to check on him, they promptly do so. If he’s not in his room, they inquire among the staff to see if anyone has seen him and then call to let me know he was in the dining room for lunch or something similar. It’s assuring to know that with so many residents, they recognize exactly who my dad is. He’s often found at the front office recharging his phone. I sent him a load of phone chargers, and now we haven’t lost track of him like before.

Dad got involved with several scams, but when individuals got physically close (or potentially) onto the facility grounds, the security team acted quickly to protect him, thereby ensuring senior safety and security for all residents. They took all necessary actions to keep him safe.

Despite Dad’s scam troubles, he was still well-liked by the staff, who provided the care he needed. He probably became noticeable due to his situation, but they never asked him to leave and continued to support him.

I have to assume that elderly fraud and scams affect a significant number of seniors. More classes on combating fraud should be taught before individuals reach a point where they no longer understand how to protect themselves. While I’m sure many facilities offer such classes, I don’t receive notifications since I do not live there.

My dad’s health system is tied to the facility’s contracted system, and only one option on Medicaid works with that group, so Dad needs to maintain that plan. They come to his room to evaluate him on a schedule or when he needs a doctor, bringing along necessary equipment if required. It’s a good system. They also come every morning and evening to administer his medications, as he hasn’t been taking them consistently.

There is a workout center with various equipment and even a swimming pool, with staff present to ensure no one has any issues, like passing out or drowning.

There are areas filled with books, and jigsaw puzzles line a certain hallway - with tables and chairs available. There’s a computer area with a printer. If a phone needs charging, they can bring it to the computer area (if someone lost their charger or if it stopped working). Activities are scheduled throughout the week, including Sunday worship with a couple of service options.

I recommend spending time with the staff before placing your parent in a facility. Dine in the dining room and observe the healthy food options. Engage with the front office staff. Take tours of the facility and the rooms. Note how people react as you walk around; if you say “hi,” are they friendly or trying to avoid you? Will your questions be answered (come prepared with questions)? Does the facility provide graduated care as a person declines? Will it accept Medicare or Medicaid? Is there a medical system in-house, or do appointments need to go to a PCP office? Do they provide transportation? Are pets allowed? Do they take residents shopping when needed or on a regular schedule? How are prescriptions refilled? Consider all the questions you might have to ensure your parent has a good place to stay at an affordable cost.

My dad is in a Brookdale facility in Colorado Springs, and I can’t think of a better place for him. They know how to deal with all kinds of people, including those requiring dementia care. They make residents feel welcome and always watch out for them. The staff is well-trained for all phases of care.

Elderly woman in a wheelchair with a caregiver and two men conversing in the background.

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Supportive Staff in Home

Welcome to My Dad's Dementia Journey

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